Storage and Maintenance of Printed Terrain
Understanding the intricacies of proper 3D printed terrain storage and maintenance is key to retaining the quality and longevity of your models for wargaming, tabletop role-playing games, and railway modeling among others. Often, intricately-crafted printed terrain depicts realistic environments, playing an essential role in enacting gaming scenes and enhancing the overall gaming experience. They require caring handling and storage for their preservation and to maintain their intricate details.
Storage of Printed Terrain
Storage is a crucial aspect of printed terrain’s life cycle, ensuring the model’s safety and preventing any form of damage. Many collectors, hobbyists, and enthusiasts overlook this point. Storing 3D printed terrain isn’t complex and by implementing simple steps and measures, one can secure the longevity of these miniatures.
Begin by considering the material used in your printed terrain model. Commonly, Printed terrain models are made with Polylactic Acid (PLA), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol (PETG), and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU). Each material possesses diverse properties, requiring unique storage conditions.
For instance, ABS and PLA are sensitive to sunlight and moisture; hence storing them in a cooler, darker environment is advisable. PETG, of course, doesn’t have the same sensitivities. Nevertheless, a cool, dry environment also suits it perfectly. Moreover, using airtight containers or sealed plastic bags for each individual model prevents moisture incursion and dust accumulation.
The storage space essentials include shortsightedness, accessibility, and capacity. You should store your printed terrain models in a place where you can easily access them, but where there’s little chance they’ll be knocked down or otherwise damaged. Keep the scale and number of your terrain pieces in mind when considering storage options.
Shadow boxes, meant for delicate collectibles, are a good option for smaller, more detailed printed terrains. On the contrary, adjusting shelving units to store larger printed terrains provides ample room for such models.
Maintenance of Printed Terrain
Even though printed terrains are principally robust, regular maintenance ensure these models remain dust-free and vividly colored over the years.
First and foremost, cleaning is the simplest yet most effective form of maintenance for your printed terrains. Dust, if not quickly dealt with, can seep into the miniature’s details, disrupting the terrains’ intricate textures and colors. Lightly dusting your models with a soft, dry paintbrush regularly helps to keep them clean.
In case your printed terrain requires deeper cleaning, using a soft, moist cloth or a toothbrush can work wonders. Skim the high areas and gradually go into the details without over-scrubbing to avoid damaging the print. For PLA and ABS models, avoid using high-alcohol solutions as they can react with the material and compromise the integrity of the model.
Further, repairs might be required if the terrain suffered damage during gameplay or due to mishandling. For these cases, having a cyanoacrylate glue or a plastic cement can help in fixing the damages. Remember to follow instructions stated in your adhesive to ensure full adhesion without damaging the print.
To prolong the vibrancy of the colors of your painted terrain, a good practice is to apply a layer of UV protective clear varnish. This will help to shield the colors from fading due to prolonged exposure to light.
Lastly, consider rotating your printed terrain. Not only will this keep your gaming tabletop fresh and compelling, but it can also prevent wear and tear on your most frequently used pieces.
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However, proper storage and maintenance of printed terrain require consistency and diligence. By following these essentials, you can preserve the aesthetic appeal and integrity of these miniatures, enhancing your gaming experience for years to come. Remember, the key is regular maintenance. A few minutes spent dusting and inspecting your models for damage can ensure they’ll be looking their best for your next gaming session.
