From digital model to physical object

3D printing & design

I enjoy turning files into physical builds, then solving the scaling, tolerance, assembly, and finishing problems along the way.

From a file to a finished piece

Printing is only one stage. Before a build starts, I need to check scale, orientation, supports, and how separate parts will connect. After printing, the work moves to fitting, sanding, assembly, and finishing.

That full process is what interests me. A digital model looks complete, but the physical version exposes every weak measurement and awkward connection.

The larger builds

My larger projects include a katana inspired by Elden Ring and a replica hand cannon. Both required the designs to be divided into printable pieces and assembled into a convincing final form.

  • Scale pieces so they fit the printer and the finished prop
  • Plan joints before committing to a long print
  • Test tolerances with smaller samples
  • Use sanding and finishing to hide layer lines and seams

Why I like the process

3D printing gives me a direct loop between design and evidence. If an idea does not work, the physical part shows why. I adjust the file, print again, and compare the result.