Check out how you can 3D model your very own miniatures or bits using Shapeways, and just who they are and what they actually do.
As we mentioned previously, online consumer printing service and marketplace, Shapeways, has been a popular destination for bits and we’re psyched to see they’re making an effort to demystify 3D modeling by rolling out some how-to tutorials— and taking the time to explain the whole thing for our readers.
We sat down recently with Shapeways Community Manager Andrew Simon Thomas and got him to break it all down for us
What is Shapeways?
We’re a 3D printing Service and Marketplace, so you can upload a 3D model to our website and we’ll automatically quote you in over 60 different materials and finishes and ship your unique 3D print to your home. You can also open a shop on Shapeways to sell 3D printed products like Etsy: we have over 35,000 independent shops for a huge range of communities, including wargaming.
What kind of quality and level of detail can I expect?
For wargamers, the great thing about Shapeways is that we have tons of custom bits and complete model kits. Instead of the lower quality, consumer grade desktop printers, Shapeways uses all industrial materials and processes so the level of quality is on par with cast resins. We have a material called Frosted Ultra Detail that picks up paint extremely well. We have another material called Black High Definition Acrylate that’s really popular resin for tabletop gaming miniatures.
How do I browse your catalog?
You can head over to our table and wargaming section of the marketplace here. We have a bunch of shops run by huge wargaming fans such as Pop goes the Monkey, Plokoone, and Gadgets + that are really popular for the 40k crowd.
Why has Shapeways become so popular for wargaming?
The great thing about Shapeways is that everything is custom-made and user generated, so we have a massive catalog of unique cool products. Wargamers love to customize their armies and Shapeways has a lot of things that aren’t available anywhere else. Since each part is printed to order, we’re also a great option when you don’t want to buy a whole kit just to get a few bits.
How can I make my own one-of-a-kind minis?
There are a few ways that you can get started. If you already know 3D design software you can go straight to Shapeways and upload your 3D model file. If you’re looking to learn how to 3D design you should check out my tutorial on making your own tabletop miniature here. You can also find a professional 3D designer to hire to help you here.
- https://www.shapeways.com/
create#tabletop-gaming - https://spikeybits.com/2017/
05/time-to-3d-how-to-model- your-own-miniature.html - https://www.shapeways.com/
hire/designer
How do I open my own store on Shapeways so I can sell my minis?
It’s really easy! You just make an account, set up your PayPal account (so you can get paid) and set your prices on products. We have some really great resources on how to sell your products here.
Here’s my hhort list of Shapeways tabletop miniatures sellers to check out.
- https://www.shapeways.com/shops/popbits
- https://www.shapeways.com/shops/gadgetsplus
- https://www.shapeways.com/shops/jack-of-clubs-painting
- https://www.shapeways.com/shops/horsch-concept?li=pb
- https://www.shapeways.com/shops/phoenix-forge?li=pb
Have you ever used Shapeways for modeling your own minis or for selling? Tell us about your experience in the comments below!
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About the Author: Rob Baer
Virginia Restless, Miniature Painter & Cat Dad.
I blame LEGOs. There was something about those little-colored blocks that started it all... Twitter @catdaddymbg
