3D Printing

I went into one of my favorites stores today and noticed they had one of there 3D printers on display. I haven't really been keeping up with the 3D printing as I have no use for it at the moment, I noticed one of the sales reps giving a demonstration of what the device can do. He printed a bowl, something simple and small. While I was watching this the thought crossed my mind, Why not print action figures, characters from your favorite comic or your own creation. Now of course I am not the only or the first person who was thinking this very thing. The gentlemen standing in front of me asked that very questions. So the sales associate said good point but you would need other things like a 3D modeling in order to do that and it wouldn't be precise with the joints of the figure for it to function.

This got me thinking. I don't do much with modeling and such but i do know a little about programming and it shouldn't be a hard transition to be able to turn concepts into 3D models ready for printing right? How hard could it be? As I start this journey down the path of 3D modeling and printing I will consider all the options pros and cons.

Most 3D printers are well into the thousands for high quality ones anyway but could be worth the investment. I am sure many have been using the technology for years but for regular hobbits starting small might be the key.

In the coming months I will be doing some research on 3D printers and models and see where it takes me.