Handling, Assembling and Modifying 3d-Printed Resin Models
At The Dragon’s Dream 3d, we take great care to ensure that all resin models are correctly cleaned, washed of any excess resin or cleaning products, and fully cured before they leave our workshop. However, even with our thorough process, there may be occasional traces of residue, particularly in small or hard-to-reach areas. Please review the following safety guidelines when handling or working on your models.
Resin Safety
While cured resin is generally considered non-toxic and safe for long-term skin contact, certain precautions should be taken, especially when cutting, sanding, or drilling into the model, as dust or fine particles may pose a health risk.
If you modify or work on your models, we recommend the following:
- Ventilation: Always work in a well-ventilated area to reduce inhalation of dust or fumes.
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PPE (Personal Protective Equipment):
- Wear chemical-resistant gloves (such as nitrile or neoprene) when handling or working on models.
- Use safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from dust or debris.
- When sanding or cutting, wear a dust mask or, ideally, a respirator mask with organic vapour cartridges to prevent inhaling fine particles.
- Hand Washing: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling or modifying resin models. Avoid touching your face, mouth, or eyes during handling.
Assembling and Modifying Your Resin Models
Modifying 3D-printed resin models requires a mix of patience and precision. Unlike traditional plastic, cured resin is more brittle, so your goal is to avoid snapping the material while achieving a clean finish.
Attaching Parts & Bases
- Glue: Normal Super Glue is recommended, it creates a strong chemical bond with the resin, I use Gorilla Super Glues, but any make should be fine. For heavy pieces, a "gap-filling" or gel-type super glue works best.
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Gaps: These can be filled using any standard modelling putty such as green stuff.
- Surface Prep: Most surfaces should be fine to just glue, however, if you are having trouble, lightly sand the joining surfaces with sandpaper for the glue to grip.
- "Pinning": If a part is heavy or has a small attachment point (like a thin wrist), you can drill a tiny hole into both sides and insert a small piece of wire before gluing. This provides a structural skeleton that prevents the joint from snapping.
Cutting & Shaping
- The Right Blade: Use a fresh, sharp hobby knife or a fine-toothed jeweler's saw. Dull blades require more pressure, which increases the risk of the resin cracking or the blade slipping.
- Sawing vs. Scoring: For thick parts, use a "score and snap" method or a saw. If you try to force a knife through a thick limb, the internal tension can cause the piece to shatter or snap incorrectly.
- Safety First: Always cut away from yourself. 3D resin produces fine dust when sanded or cut; it is highly recommended to wear a mask and dampen the area with water to keep the dust from becoming airborne.
Protecting Your Resin Models
To ensure your models remain safe to handle and maintain their integrity over time, we recommend:
- Sealing: Apply a coat of primer, paint, or a UV-blocking lacquer or varnish to your models. This helps protect the resin from ongoing exposure to UV light, which can cause the resin to become brittle over time.
- Storage: Store models out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place until sealed to prevent UV damage or warping.
Important Handling & Safety Warnings
- Not Food Safe: Even when cured, our resin is not food-safe. Please do not use any of our 3d prints for food-related purposes, and avoid placing them near your mouth or in contact with food or drink.
- Choking and Injury Risk: Some models may include small parts, modular pieces, or sharp points. If chewed, swallowed, or mishandled, these can pose choking or injury hazards. Please keep models out of the reach of small children and pets.
- Age Disclaimer: Our models are not intended for children under the age of 16. They are designed for hobbyist and collector use only.
- Liability Disclaimer: Dragon’s Dream 3d is not responsible for any harm, injury, or damages resulting from the misuse, modification, or incorrect use of our 3D-printed models. Customers are responsible for following proper handling and safety precautions when working with or displaying these products.
If you have any questions about handling, modifying, or caring for your models, please don't hesitate to contact us. We’re always happy to help ensure your adventures stay safe and enjoyable!