3D Printing Skeleton: High-Quality Model Tips

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 7 min read

Creating a 3D printed skeleton can be an exciting task for both hobbyists and professionals alike. Whether you're a student seeking a unique study aid, an artist exploring new mediums, or a professional in the medical field, a high-quality 3d printed skeleton can serve a multitude of purposes. But to produce a skeleton that's not only anatomically correct but also durable, you'll need to consider several important factors. Let's dive into the first—and one of the most impactful—of these: choosing the right material for your 3D printed skeleton.

1. Choose the Right Material

The material you choose for your 3D printed skeleton can significantly affect the final product's appearance, durability, and functionality. Let's explore the three most commonly used materials in 3D printing: plastic, resin, and metal.

Plastic

Plastic—specifically ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or PLA (Polylactic Acid)—is a popular choice for 3D printed skeletons due to its affordability and ease of use. ABS is robust and withstands wear and tear well, making it suitable for teaching aids or display models. On the other hand, PLA is environmentally friendly, available in various colors, and perfect for intricate skeletal structures as it holds detail well. However, remember that plastic skeletons might not be as detailed or durable as those made from resin or metal.

Resin

Resin is another excellent material choice for a 3D printed skeleton. Known for its superior detail and smooth finish, resin can create realistic, high-quality skeletal models. It's often used for smaller, more delicate pieces like dental or ear models. Keep in mind, though, resin can be more expensive than plastic, and the printing process can be a bit more complex.

Metal

If you're after a durable, professional-grade 3D printed skeleton, metal might be your go-to material. Although more challenging to work with and more expensive than plastic or resin, metal—such as stainless steel or bronze—yields highly durable and detailed models. They're often used in professional environments like medical facilities or museums. Metal skeletons are an investment, but their long-lasting nature and impressive detail can be worth the extra effort and cost.

Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to choosing the right material for your 3D printed skeleton. It all boils down to your specific needs, budget, and the level of detail and durability you're aiming for. Up next, we'll discuss how to select an appropriate 3D printer that complements your choice of material.

2. Select a Suitable 3D Printer

Now that you have chosen the right material for your 3D printed skeleton, the next step is to select a 3D printer that aligns with your specific needs. Different types of 3D printers use different technologies and each has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Let's discuss the three main types: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Stereolithography (SLA), and Selective Laser Sintering (SLS).

Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

FDM is one of the most common types of 3D printers, and it's a great option if you're using plastic as your material. It works by melting plastic filament and depositing it layer by layer to form the 3D object. FDM printers are cost-effective, easy to use, and perfect for beginners. However, the layer lines can be visible in the final product, which might require some post-processing for a smooth finish.

Stereolithography (SLA)

If you're using resin for your 3D printed skeleton, an SLA printer could be your best bet. SLA printers use a high-powered laser to cure liquid resin, creating highly detailed and smooth objects. They're excellent for capturing the intricate details of a skeleton. However, SLA printers are generally more expensive and require a more intricate post-processing than FDM printers.

Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)

SLS printers are the top-tier choice, particularly if you're using metal as your material. They work by using a laser to melt and fuse metal powder layer by layer, creating strong and highly detailed objects. SLS-printed skeletons are extremely durable and can withstand heavy use, making them perfect for professional settings. However, SLS printers are the most expensive and complex to use among the three types.

Selecting the right 3D printer depends on the material you've chosen, your budget, and the level of detail and durability you require for your 3D printed skeleton. Once you've got the right printer, it's time to move on to the next critical step: using accurate 3D modeling software.

3. Use Accurate 3D Modeling Software

So, you've selected your material and your 3D printer. It's now time to create your model. For that, you'll need reliable and accurate 3D modeling software. Let's look at three popular ones: Autodesk, Blender, and SketchUp.

Autodesk

Autodesk is a well-known name in the 3D modeling world. Their software, Autodesk Fusion 360, is a cloud-based platform known for its user-friendly interface and extensive toolset. It's excellent for designing complex and highly detailed models, like a 3D printed skeleton. Plus, it offers a great deal of precision, ensuring your model is as accurate as possible.

Blender

Blender is a free and open-source 3D modeling software. It's loved by both beginners and pros for its versatility and powerful features. Blender can handle everything from modeling and rigging to animation and rendering, making it a one-stop-shop for 3D printed skeleton creation. However, it has a bit of a learning curve, so it might take some time to get the hang of it.

SketchUp

SketchUp is another popular choice, particularly for beginners. It's a straightforward, intuitive software that's great for creating simple 3D models. SketchUp may not have as many advanced features as Autodesk or Blender, but it's more than capable of creating a detailed 3D printed skeleton.

Remember, the software you choose largely depends on your level of skill, the complexity of the model you want to create, and your personal preference. By selecting the right 3D modeling software, you're one step closer to creating an accurate and high-quality 3D printed skeleton. Up next, let's talk about optimizing your print settings!

4. Optimize Print Settings

Now that you've got your 3D model for your skeleton ready, it's time to prepare your printer. But before you hit that print button, you need to optimize your print settings. Here are some key things to keep in mind: layer height, print speed, and infill density.

Layer Height

Layer height is all about how thin or thick the layers of your 3D printed skeleton will be. It's a fine balance: thinner layers can give you more detail, but they'll also increase your print time. Thicker layers, on the other hand, can speed up the process but may result in a less detailed print. For a detailed model like a 3D printed skeleton, you might want to lean towards thinner layers.

Print Speed

As the name suggests, print speed is how fast your 3D printer will work. Speeding up the process might seem tempting, but a slower print speed will usually result in a higher-quality print. So don't rush your 3D printed skeleton; let the printer take its time to get all those intricate details right.

Infill Density

Infill density is how solid the inside of your 3D printed skeleton will be. Less density means a faster print and less material used, but the final print will be lighter and less durable. More density will result in a sturdier, heavier print, but it will use more material and take more time. You'll need to decide what's more important for your specific project.

By carefully adjusting these settings, you can optimize your 3D printer to produce the best possible version of your 3D printed skeleton. But once your model is printed, the work isn't over yet. Let's move on to some post-processing techniques to really make your 3D printed skeleton shine!

5. Post-Processing for Better Results

Printing your 3D printed skeleton is only half the battle. The next phase—post-processing—can truly make your model stand out. Here, I'll guide you through three techniques: sanding, spray painting, and sealing.

Sanding

Sanding will help smooth out any rough edges or visible layer lines on your 3D printed skeleton. Start with coarse sandpaper to get rid of the bigger imperfections, then gradually move to finer sandpaper for a smooth finish. Remember, patience is key; don't rush this process.

Spray Painting

Once your skeleton is smooth, you might want to consider giving it a coat of paint. Spray painting can enhance the realism and bring your 3D printed skeleton to life. Grey or white is usually a good choice for a skeleton, but feel free to get creative!

Sealing

The final step in post-processing is sealing. This will protect your 3D printed skeleton from wear and tear, and can also give it a nice sheen. There are many sealants available, but make sure to choose one that's compatible with the material you used for printing.

With these post-processing steps, your 3D printed skeleton will not only look more professional, but also last longer. But remember, the perfect print doesn't come without its fair share of challenges. Let's discuss some common 3D printing mistakes in the next section and how you can avoid them.

6. Avoid Common 3D Printing Mistakes

No one's perfect, and mistakes are part of the learning process. But when it comes to 3D printed skeletons, some mistakes can be costly and time-consuming. Let's discuss three common pitfalls: improper bed leveling, inadequate support structures, and wrong print temperature.

Improper Bed Leveling

Bed leveling is like laying the foundation for a building—it needs to be just right. An unlevel bed can lead to failed prints or, worse, a 3D printed skeleton that's more "abstract art" than anatomy. To avoid this, always check your bed leveling before you start printing. It may seem like a small step, but it can make a big difference in your final result.

Inadequate Support Structures

When it comes to 3D printed skeletons, support structures are your best friend. They provide stability and shape to your model while it's being printed. Skipping or skimping on supports can lead to a skeleton that's more "spooky Halloween decoration" than scientific model. So, always double-check your support settings before you hit "print".

Wrong Print Temperature

Temperature matters—a lot. Too hot, and your 3D printed skeleton might look like it's melting. Too cold, and it might not bond properly, resulting in a weak model. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the optimal print temperature for your chosen material.

Printing a 3D skeleton is a journey, and like all good journeys, it comes with its share of bumps and roadblocks. But with patience, practice, and a good sense of humor, you can avoid these common mistakes and create a high-quality 3D printed skeleton that you can be proud of.

If you're interested in taking your 3D printing skills to the next level, consider exploring the workshop 'How to Sculpt a Skull' by Andrew Joseph Keith. This workshop will teach you how to create a high-quality, anatomically accurate skull model, perfect for enhancing your 3D printing projects.