Toy collectors can use 3D printing to get high quality 3D printed toys that will suit their taste

Adult toy collectors can also consider getting high quality 3D printed toys. In fact, a lot of toy manufacturers such as Hasbro are using 3D printing technology to help augment their production. 

The reason why adults collect toys meant for kids is that it somehow relives their childhood and it creates a sense of accomplishment. While some toys are up for retail, there is also the so-called toy hunt to acquire special or limited action figures.

There are varying reasons why adult men collect toys, be it for fun or the joy of collecting. Completion of special sets is quite a feat for some and through 3D printing service, you can complete them even if they are no longer available in the market. 

With that in mind, here’s how you can get customized 3D printed toys for your toy collection. There are two ways to do so, if you have your own 3D printer or look for a 3D company that offers 3D printing service. 

 

3D Printing Service for Toy Collectors

Here’s what you need to know if you are going to ask a 3D company to print high quality 3D printed toys for you. 

1. Look for 3D models online

This is for you to save in the overall 3D printing cost. There is a high chance that the action figure you want already has a 3D model online. This way, you can just ask a 3D designer or artist for a simple modification to suit your taste. 

 

Online 3D Models Source

• Thingiverse
• GrabCad
• TurboSquid
• Yeggi

The above list, you can download 3D models for free. Of course, the downside is you have to edit it to your liking. 

 

Online Shops

• Shapeways
• Etsy

These two features pay to download to get your desired 3D models. However, you don’t have the option to modify it and it gets a bit pricier. 

If these options are out of your choices, you can ask a 3D designer to do the 3D model for you. That’s why it is best to look for a 3D company that offers end to end service so you don’t have to explain the entire project every single time. 

 

2. 3D printing the model

If you get a 3D printing service, they will do all the work for you. However, for the sake of being in the know, you have to keep these in mind:

• They may have to split individual parts to ensure that joints will be properly printed
• Small parts may not print well that is why it is best to choose a good scale for best results
• Recommended filaments are PETG (material used in lego), nylon or a sturdy blend of PLA

 

3. Post-processing

Customized 3D printed toys often need post-processing to achieve the quality of a market-bought figure. You can also ask your 3D company to do this for you. 

This may involve the following processes:

• Support removal for small artifacts and stuck supports
• Smoothing of surfaces with sandpaper
• Fitting the parts with cyanoacrylate or super glue or modeling glue
•  Application of base coat primer that is usually a spray paint
• Painting of the toy figure using detail brushes with modeling paints or acrylic paints
• Application of clear spray varnish to secure the paint and prevent it from falling off easily. This also gives a smooth out finish

 

Benefits of 3D Printing Service for Toy Collectors

3D printing is not an entirely new concept in the Philippines as it has been gaining traction for years. Also 3D printers are becoming much more affordable than ever. It’s availability is also widespread thanks to e-commerce platforms where you can buy them and shipped to your doorstep.

While getting a 3D printer for printing your toys may be quite a stretch as it requires investments on filaments and time. But here are the benefits for you.

 

Customization

Off the shelf toys are identical unless these are limited edition or vintage ones. 3D printing service allows customization to the fullest and according to what you like. This will make your collection to stand out amongst the rest.

As 3D printing offers limitless customization, it can help bring in your unique individuality onto your toys. This will make your toys original and you can apply specific and personal modifications to it.

 

Accessibility

As there is a wide availability of online printing services, you can easily access them to do your project. Also with online sites where you can download 3D models for free, you can modify them to suit your taste

Also 3D printing often happens online and you only need to transact through social media platforms or emails. You can also opt to deliver the printed toy to your house for less hassle. 

Lower Cost

Popping of affordable 3D printed and much affordable filaments lead to affordable 3D printing service. However, this does not mean you have to settle for less quality prints. While in comparison with getting a customized 3D printed toy, it may be much cheaper depending on the scale. 

 

Model Accuracy

Almost all of the free and downloadable action figure 3D models are faithful to the original design. That is why accuracy is no question but if you think there is a bit of difference that you want to remove, you ask for modifications. 

This is possible through 3D modeling and design. Often, 3D companies use the best 3D modeling software to ensure best service and faster output in time for your project.

 

Develops Creative Thinking

For toy collectors, some off-the-shelf action figures are not in their chosen stance or poses. This will also help in making your toys interact with the real world. Also, you can print accessories that will match your toys even if they are not yet available for sale. 

 

3D2GO offers 3D Printing Service for Toy Collectors in the Philippines

As the pioneer and only 3D company that provides end-to-end services in the country, we have extensive 3D printing services for toy collectors. 

We use the best 3D printers and filaments to ensure high quality 3D printed toys for you. If you have modifications on your free-to-download 3D model, we can apply the necessary modifications with our 3D modeling and design.

3D2GO Philippines also provides post-processing services to ensure we can create the best action figure that will suit your taste.

Contact us today and let us help you with your toy collection!