3d Modelling/Building

So - is anyone 3D modelling/Printing their own ships yet?

Just looking into either getting a 3D printer myself, or if I can find an economical 3rd party upload+print site.

I'm interested to hear what folks are doing! 

Here's a prototype "Bulletproof Monk". (working name for now)

   

I have designed a slew of ships in 3D for ME. I use 3D prints at work, and have reservations about the tech.

Printers like MakerBot are limited on abilities, but are easier to obtain. Most printers that build using filament media, tend to be very coarse in this respect.

Printers like Objet and Form2 are much better, but also cost more. These printers use a liquid resin that is cured layer by layer. Resolution is much better with these, but some loss of detail can also occur.

Keep in mind, regardless of the printer type, an object is printed in layers. As such, a curved surface will appear stepped. The higher resolution printers like Objet and Form2 minimize this effect, but it is still present. The FUD and FXD materials from Shapeways are among the best. The company I do model work with is looking at getting the Form2 in the near future, but it is pending other projects.