Many of us have looked into buying a 3D printer to create our own Dungeons & Dragons props and miniatures. DIY DnD props are an excellent idea, and it’s actually not difficult to get started on this path. Nowadays, 3D printers are pretty affordable and able to achieve impressive quality when printing, making them an ideal companion for roleplaying and tabletop enthusiasts.
So what do you need, exactly, to 3D print your own DnD props? This article will cover all the basics – and a few more ‘advanced’ techniques to get the most out of your system. Let’s get started, shall we?
Why Should You 3D Print Your Own DnD Props?
First and foremost, 3D printing empowers you with the ability to bring your unique creations to life. From awe-inspiring landscapes and intricate dungeon tiles to detailed miniature figurines, the possibilities are limited only by your imagination. With a 3D printer at your disposal, you can craft customized props and scenery that perfectly align with your D&D campaigns, giving them a personal touch that truly immerses you and your fellow players in the game world.
There are a few reasons why you might consider printing your own D&D props and miniatures. Two of the most popular ones are customization and cost. So, let’s get into some more detail about these two:
Customization:
- You can design your props and minis to fit your campaign, game style, and background.
- You can customize all NPCs, represent playing characters, create monsters, and add DnD companions.
- You can create variations of characters and effects. For example, a transparent version of a mini for invisibility or a custom bless for your players.
Cost:
- 3D printers have become quite affordable, and there are all types of resins available to print beautiful DnD props.
- You can definitely save money printing your own minis compared to buying them already done.
- If you know your way around 3D modeling and printing, you can potentially sell your creations to other players and DMs.
What Do You Need to 3D Print DnD Props?
The first thing you will need to print your DnD props is, of course, a 3D printer. There are a few excellent options you can find below this section, but we definitely recommend the Elegoo line of 3D printers because of their price and print quality. You really can’t go wrong with these machines.
Apart from a 3D printer, you will also require resin. There are different types of resin that can help you print the props and minis in your favorite style. For example, you can use an eco-friendly vegetable-based resin that is opaque or a transparent resin. Even a flexible resin so you can stretch your props!
Other good accessories for printing the best 3D props for DnD are components for mold-making (so you can replicate your creations), miniature brushes, and paints.
Where To Buy Tools for 3D Printing DnD Props and Minis
Most of the things you will need for 3D printing DnD props are not easy to find in ‘the shops’. Luckily, everything you can require is available online. From 3D printers to resins, brushes, and paints, you will find all the accessories and equipment necessary below.
The Best 3D Printers for DnD Props
3D printing offers a cost-effective solution for D&D enthusiasts. While purchasing pre-made props and miniatures can quickly add up, investing in a 3D printer provides a long-term solution that allows you to produce countless props at a fraction of the cost. With the right equipment and materials, you can unleash your creativity without breaking the bank.
The Elegoo Range
I personally recommend the Elegoo range for 3D-printing your DnD props and minis. I am not sponsored by them, I just really, really like their machines. There are different Elegoo models, but they tend to be in the same price range: Around $300. This means that if you need to update your 3D printer, you will be expected to pay roughly that. This also means that 3D printers go cheaper once the newer models are released, so you can get a second-hand one for much less. In the list below, you will find our favorite Elegoo printers available new (through Amazon) and second-hand (through eBay). Note: If you make a purchase, I get a commission. This doesn’t cost extra for you.
The Elegoo range of 3D printers is a popular line of affordable and user-friendly 3D printers designed for enthusiasts, hobbyists, and beginners. Elegoo is a well-known brand that offers a variety of models to cater to different needs and budgets. Here are some notable models in the Elegoo range:
Elegoo Mars: The Elegoo Mars is a highly regarded resin-based 3D printer known for its exceptional print quality and affordability. It utilizes LCD-based curing technology to create detailed and precise resin prints. The Mars series has seen multiple iterations, with improvements in features and performance.
Elegoo Mars Pro: Building upon the success of the original Mars, the Elegoo Mars Pro introduced several upgrades and refinements. It features a more robust build plate, improved UV LED lighting, and enhanced resin vat design for easier maintenance and better printing results.
Elegoo Mars 2: The Elegoo Mars 2 is another resin-based 3D printer that offers advanced features, including a monochrome LCD screen that enables faster print times and longer lifespan. It also boasts a sturdy build and improved stability.
Elegoo Saturn: The Elegoo Saturn is a larger-format resin 3D printer that allows for printing bigger objects with a larger build volume compared to the Mars series. It offers a spacious print area and maintains the high print quality associated with Elegoo printers.
Elegoo Neptune: The Elegoo Neptune is an FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printer that operates using filament-based technology. It is known for its user-friendly design, ease of use, and affordable price point, making it suitable for beginners and those on a budget.
Elegoo Mars 2 Pro Mono ($225.99)
The Mars 2 Pro is one of Elegoo’s most popular 3D printers. This machine is efficient, has a great quality, and an unbeatable price.
Elegoo Mars 3 ($284.99)
The Mars 3 is the latest 3D printer offered by Elegoo. This machine is even better and faster than its predecessors and costs just a tiny bit more.
Elegoo Saturn S ($427.99)
The Mars Saturn S is Elegoo’s largest printer. It has a 196 * 122 * 210 mm bed and unquestionable quality.
Elegoo Washing and Curing Station ($249.99)
Elegoo also makes fantastic curing and washing stations to complete your 3D printed DnD Props.
Other Great 3D Printers for DnD Props
There are many other options that are also excellent for printing props and minis for Dungeons & Dragons. For example, the Phrozen Sonic is pricier but can achieve an impressive quality – not unlike that of minis and props you can buy. But there’s also cheaper machines, such as those in the ANYCUBIC range, that are great for getting started and trying if you like printing. These are our recommendations:
ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K ($279.99)
The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono is another excellent cost-effective 3D printer ideal for DnD props.
Phrozen Sonic Mighty ($499.99)
The Phrozen Sonic 3D printer is another great printer, but it costs a little more than the Elegoo and ANYCUBIC ranges.
Creality HALOT-ONE Plus ($399)
Another good opton is the Creality HALOT-ONE Plus, a resilient and effective 3D printer for DnD minis.
Resin for 3D Printed DnD Props and Minis
3D printing resin, also known as photopolymer resin, is a specialized material used in resin-based 3D printing technologies such as Digital Light Processing (DLP) and Stereolithography (SLA). It is a liquid substance that undergoes a chemical reaction when exposed to specific wavelengths of light, typically ultraviolet (UV) light.
The resin consists of a mixture of polymerizable monomers, oligomers, and photoinitiators. When the resin is exposed to UV light, the photoinitiators within the resin initiate a polymerization process. This process causes the liquid resin to solidify and harden into a desired shape layer by layer, forming a solid object.
The resin is capable of producing highly detailed and intricate prints with smooth surfaces, making it ideal for creating intricate models, miniatures, jewelry, dental and medical devices, and other objects that require a high level of precision and fine details.
You can choose from several different types of resin for your 3D printing minis. All of these are actually good, so it’s more a matter of preference; however, I personally recommend the vegetable resin because it’s better for the environment.
Siraya Tech Cast 3D Printer Resin ($75/1kg)
This affordable resin is perfect for all kinds of projects, including printing DnD props and minis. Oh, and it’s purple!
RESIONE Tough 3D Printing Resin ($53.99)
This resin has the mechanical properties of thermoplastics, which makes it a great choice for DnD props.
ELEGOO ABS-Like Resin ($35.99)
ELEGOO also has its own resin that works perfectly wth their printers. This is also the most affordable option for DnD printing resin.
It’s important to note that working with 3D printing resin involves certain safety precautions. Resin should be handled in a well-ventilated area, and it is recommended to wear protective gloves and eyewear to prevent direct contact with the skin or eyes. Additionally, the process of post-processing resin prints typically involves washing them in isopropyl alcohol and curing them under UV light to achieve their final hardness and stability.
Painting, Cleaning, and Duplicating Your DnD Props
The last thing we will cover in this article guide is the accessories for finalizing your 3D printed DnD props and miniatures. And that’s paints, brushes, varnishes, and all the things that can make your prop shine (literally and otherwise).
Once you’ve 3D printed your D&D props, the adventure doesn’t end there. Painting, cleaning, and duplicating your prints are essential steps to bring your creations to life and enhance your gaming experience.
- Painting: Transform your plain 3D prints into vibrant works of art by adding colors and intricate details through painting. Utilize acrylic paints, brushes, and techniques to highlight every intricate feature of your props, making them visually captivating and realistic.
- Cleaning: Before painting or displaying your prints, it’s crucial to clean off any excess resin or support structures. Rinse your prints in isopropyl alcohol to remove uncured resin, and use a soft brush or air compressor to eliminate any residue. A clean and smooth surface ensures your props look polished and professional.
- Duplicating: Sometimes, one prop isn’t enough. Whether you want to create multiple versions of a mini or duplicate a specific prop, 3D printing allows for easy replication. Simply make use of your 3D printer to produce multiple copies, ensuring that each player has their own unique prop or that your game table is abundantly filled with the necessary scenery.
By painting, cleaning, and duplicating your 3D printed D&D props, you can breathe life into your creations and immerse yourself and your fellow players in a world of stunning visuals. Let your creativity flow, and watch as your tabletop adventures become even more captivating and memorable.
These are our favorite products to finish your prints:
This Vallejo set of paints includes 8 different highly pigmented acrylic colors, each in 17ml plastic ‘eye dropper’ bottle. Includes instructions and color chart.
This mini compact air compressor comes with a single-action airbrush and a mini screwdriver. The integrated structure can be used directly even without an air hose.
This precision laser cut MDF kit accomodates 28 jars/pots and 17 brushes. It includes clips to connect other straight racks or wedge racks from The Broken Token Modular Paint system together.
Create your ultimate hobby space with these Citadel Paint Racks. The set includes 2, each able to hold 21 pots of Citadel paints. They have optional plastic legs snapped into place.
Make it much easier to hold your miniatures securely while painting them, this handle allows you to find the perfect angle to access the fiddly bits while avoiding the inevitable hand cramps.
Handmade with premium materials and top-class crafting, these brushes never fall off the handle and are extra sturdy. The different sizes are perfect for all kinds of techniques.
This Surface Primer can be used directly or mixed with other Auxiliary products like Varnishes, Mediums, etc.
This palette is designed to keep your paints preserved perfectly smooth and creamy. The kit includes 2 hydro foams and 50 hydro sheets.
Conclusion: Printing Your Own Minis
In summary, 3D printing your own D&D props opens up a realm of endless possibilities. From unparalleled customization and cost-effectiveness to the ability to bring your wildest creations to life, this innovative technology adds depth and personalization to your D&D adventures.
Embrace the journey of 3D printing, and unlock a new level of immersion and creativity in your tabletop role-playing experiences. Your D&D world will never be the same again.
