3D Printing Articulated Dragons: Tips and Tricks
Table of Contents
- What Makes the 3D Printing Articulated Dragons Special?
- Best 3D Printers and Materials for Your 3D Printing Articulated Dragons
- Where to Find 3D Models of Articulated Dragons
- How to Set Up Your 3D Printer for Articulated Dragons
- Post-Processing Techniques for Your 3D Printing Articulated Dragon
- Complete Your 3D Printing Articulated Dragon Project!
Creating movable dragon models at home is now possible with 3D printers. These machines let you print detailed, articulated dragons that can bend and twist just like the ones you've seen online. The process is straightforward once you know the basics, and this guide will walk you through each step to make your first articulated dragon print successful.
What Makes the 3D Printing Articulated Dragons Special?
In 3D printing, articulated models are designs that are made as a single piece but have moving parts and joints. Dragons are now the most popular choice for these kinds of models, and here's why.
No Assembly Required
These dragons are ready to move as soon as they come out of the machine. Each part fits together with small gaps that are already there. These gaps make joints that work. There are no extra parts or glue needed for the neck to twist, the wings to fold, and the tail to bend.
Smart Design, Simple Printing
These models print as a single piece, even though they look complicated. The gaps between the joints are very small-just big enough to move but small enough to keep the parts together. With this smart engineering, you can print a model that moves and is very complicated.
Endless Posing Options
Each dragon can be used as a toy or as a piece of art. The wings can be spread for flight poses, the tail can be curved for balance, and the head can be turned to make different faces. You can move and play with these models to make dragon patterns come to life.
Best 3D Printers and Materials for Your 3D Printing Articulated Dragons
Two Types of Printers for Dragon Models
1. FDM Printers: Perfect for Larger Dragons
For making articulated dragons, FDM printers are a great deal. They can work with models of any size and make parts that are smooth and have good layer adhesion. These printers have large build bases that let you make dragons of any size, from small desk decorations to big wall art.
2. SLA Printers: Ideal for Mini Dragons
SLA printers are perfect for making small, very detailed dragons that are less than 5 inches long. Even though they are more expensive and have a smaller build area, these printers can make scales, claws, and joints look very realistic. This makes them great for people who collect miniatures and want to make detailed display pieces.
Best Materials for Articulated Dragons
1. PLA: Best for Fine Details
PLA is easy to work with and produces high-quality prints. It has a lot of colors and can clearly show small details, which makes it great for making dragon decorations. The material prints evenly and stays in shape well, making it perfect for accurate joint mechanisms.
2. PETG: Best for Moving Parts
PETG is used to make dragons with joints that move well and last a long time. Its strong layer bonding keeps parts from coming apart while it's being used, and its natural flexibility makes joints move easily. Dragons made of PETG don't break when they are played with and moved around a lot.
3. ABS: Best for Lasting Strength
The most durable dragon models are made from ABS. It can handle high temperatures and stays strong over time, which makes it great for things that will be handled a lot. You can also sand and paint the material easily, which makes it great for making finished show pieces.
Pro Tip: Start with PLA for your first few dragons. Once you're comfortable with the printing process, try PETG for more durable models. Use ABS when you need maximum strength and heat resistance.
Where to Find 3D Models of Articulated Dragons
Cults3D: Premium Quality Dragons
Cults3D hosts over 350 articulated dragon designs, featuring some of the most innovative and well-tested models. The platform stands out for its high-quality, curated collection and active maker community.
- FlexiFactory's Imperial Dragon ($3.95): Features interlocking spikes and four-part design for different print bed sizes. This print-in-place model requires no supports and includes carefully engineered joints.
- Divine3DDesign's Majestic Sea Dragon ($3.50): A 26-inch masterpiece with snap-in mandible design and detailed scaling. Perfect for large-format printing with no support requirements.
- Gemstone Dragon by Cinderwing3D ($4.00): Unique design featuring crystal formations along the spine, ideal for multi-color filament printing.
MyMiniFactory: Community-Driven Platform
MyMiniFactory distinguishes itself through rigorous model testing and verification. Each dragon model undergoes print testing before being approved for the platform.
- ● Pyrite Dragon by Bearded Printer ($4.95): A geometric low-poly design featuring crystalline scales across its body, stunning when printed in metallic or silk PLA filaments as shown in the gold and ice blue prints.
- ● 3D Printable Articulated Dragon by McGybeer ($3.99): A stunning Eastern-style dragon featuring intricate scales, expressive facial details, and a fully articulated body. The design allows the dragon to coil around objects or stand upright.
Thingiverse: Free Dragon Collection
Thingiverse offers the largest collection of free articulated dragon models, perfect for beginners and experimental prints.
- Lung Oriental Articulated Dragon by 7Fish: A majestic Eastern-style dragon featuring intricate scales, elegant antlers, and a fully articulated body. (0.15-0.2mm resolution, 10% infill).
- Magical Articulated Dragon by P1lotz: A beautifully designed dragon with intricate scales and a fully articulated body, allowing it to coil, stretch, or wrap around objects.
- Articulated Flame Dragon Kimseungwoo11: A fiery design with flame-like scales and a fully articulated body, perfect for dynamic poses. The vibrant orange and green print showcases its intricate details and smooth movement.
Printables: Verified Print Quality
Printables emphasizes print-tested models with detailed documentation. Each model includes maker photos and specific print settings, ensuring reliable results1.
- Nidhögg by Wojti: A master's thesis project featuring snake-like articulation and detailed scaling.
- Articulated Bone Dragon by kh4rj0: A skeletal-inspired design featuring sharp, bone-like ridges along its fully articulated body. This print-in-place model is both eerie and elegant.
MakerWorld: Growing Dragon Collection
MakerWorld has emerged as a popular platform for articulated dragons, featuring both free and premium designs. The platform's reward system encourages high-quality submissions and active community engagement.
- Articulated Crystal Dragon by Saber3D: A dazzling design featuring sharp, crystal-like spines along its fully articulated body. This model is perfect for showcasing metallic or silk filaments.
- LONG ~60" Articulated Bone Dragon by 8BitTitan: A massive skeletal dragon design stretching up to 60 inches, featuring intricate bone-like segments and a fully articulated body.
STL Finder: Comprehensive Search Engine
STL Finder serves as an aggregator platform, collecting dragon models from various sources. This makes it an excellent starting point for:
- Comparing similar designs across platforms
- Finding specific dragon styles
- Discovering new designers
3DPTK: Specialized Dragon Section
3DPTK offers a dedicated section for articulated dragons. The platform features:
- Multi-part dragon designs
- Dragon egg collections
- Detailed print settings for each model
When downloading from any platform, always verify the model's authenticity and check recent user makes to ensure print success. Some platforms have issues with unauthorized model sharing.
How to Set Up Your 3D Printer for Articulated Dragons
1. Set Layer Height to 0.1-0.2 mm
When printing articulated dragons, it is essential to aim for a layer height between 0.1 and 0.2 mm. A finer layer height of 0.1 mm captures intricate details and ensures smooth surfaces, which are vital for the joints of these models. If you prefer to speed up the printing process, increasing the layer height to 0.2 mm can be an option, but keep in mind that this may slightly compromise detail.
2. Adjust Print Speed to 40-60 mm/s
For optimal results, the print speed should be set between 40 and 60 mm/s. Slower speeds, particularly around 40 mm/s, are recommended for detailed sections to maintain accuracy and quality in your prints. This careful adjustment helps ensure that every intricate feature is rendered correctly.
3. Configure Nozzle Temperature Between 190-210°C
For PLA filament, the nozzle temperature should be configured between 190 and 210°C. Starting at around 200°C serves as a good baseline; however, adjustments may be necessary based on how the filament behaves during printing. Avoiding issues like stringing or under-extrusion is crucial for achieving a successful print.
4. Reduce First Layer Speed for Better Adhesion
To enhance adhesion, it is beneficial to lower the first layer speed to about 20 mm/s. This slower speed improves contact with the print bed, ensuring a solid foundation for your print. A strong first layer is particularly important for articulated models that rely on precise joint connections.
5. Ensure Accurate Bed Leveling
Accurate bed leveling plays a critical role in achieving good adhesion and maintaining the shape of your prints. Proper leveling ensures that the first layer adheres well, which is especially important for articulated models.
- Home the Printer: Use the control panel to home the nozzle.
- Disable Motors: Turn off the stepper motors so you can manually move the print head and bed.
- Check Corners: Move the nozzle to each corner of the bed, adjusting the leveling screws until you feel slight resistance with a piece of paper between the nozzle and bed.
- Center Adjustment: Repeat this process in the center of the bed to ensure uniform leveling across the entire surface.
6. Apply Adhesives for Enhanced Bed Adhesion
To further improve adhesion, applying a thin layer of glue stick or hairspray on your print bed after leveling can be very effective. This extra step significantly boosts the first layer's grip and overall print success.
7. Conduct a Test Print Before Your Main Project
Before diving into your main print, running a small test print allows you to confirm that all settings are correct and functioning as expected. This simple precaution helps catch potential issues early on, ultimately saving both time and materials in your printing process.
Post-Processing Techniques for Your 3D Printing Articulated Dragon
1. Remove Support Structures Carefully
After your articulated dragon has finished printing, the first step is to remove any support structures. Use pliers or tweezers to gently pull away the supports, being careful not to damage the model itself. For tighter spots or intricate details, a craft knife can help you make precise cuts to remove supports without affecting surrounding areas.
2. Assemble the Model if Required
Once the supports are removed, check if your model needs assembly. If it consists of multiple parts, align them properly and use a strong adhesive like super glue or epoxy to bond them together. Take your time during this process to ensure that all joints fit well, allowing for smooth movement of the articulated parts.
3. Sand and Smooth Surfaces
With your dragon cleaned and assembled, focus on sanding the surfaces to improve its appearance. Start with coarse sandpaper to address any noticeable layer lines or rough areas. Gradually move to finer grits for a smoother finish. If you printed with ABS, consider using acetone vapor smoothing to achieve a polished look by slightly melting the outer layer.
4. Paint Your Dragon for Added Detail
Painting can enhance the overall look of your dragon and add personal touches. Use acrylic paints for their ease of use and wide color selection. Apply a base coat in your chosen color, then add details or highlights using a smaller brush. For larger areas, airbrushing can provide a smooth finish and allow for creative effects.
5. Seal the Paint with Clear Coat
Once the paint is dry, apply a clear coat or varnish to protect your work. This step helps seal the paint and adds a nice finish, making your dragon more visually appealing and durable.
Complete Your 3D Printing Articulated Dragon Project!
For those who like to mix creativity and technical skills, 3D printing articulated dragons is a fun and rewarding hobby. To successfully bring your dragon designs to life, you will need to follow the steps in this guide, which include setting up the printer, fixing common problems, and using good post-processing methods. Don't be afraid to try out different materials and styles; pay attention to each step to make sure the final product is of high quality and works well. You'll enjoy making one-of-a-kind articulated dragons that are great for play or show if you can wait and practice.