Accessible Web-Based 3D Modeling Platform Expands with 3D Printing Service
Womp, an accessible web-based 3D modeling platform, has announced its expansion with an exciting new 3D printing service. This paid service allows creatives to convert their 3D design concepts into professional-quality 3D printed models, delivered right to their doorstep.
User Experience and Capabilities
I used Womp for the first time a few months ago and was amazed by its capabilities as a fairly basic web browser 3D modeling app. I love the cutesy branding and easy navigation of the site, which made it easy for me to learn how to 3D model in just a week using its super beginner-friendly tools and tutorials. I was able to 3D print the models myself, which came out wonderfully.
New 3D Printing Service
Womp’s new 3D printing service uses laser SLA (Stereolithography) technology and will be sticking to only industrial-grade White Prototyping Plastic (WPP) resin materials for now, with more options coming soon. This sounds like an excellent starting point, although it means that customers will have to color and paint the models themselves – which is all part of the fun!
Prices and Features
In general, I think Womp’s new 3D printing service is awesome and makes 3D printing accessible to a lot more creatives. However, I am questioning some of the "affordable" prices it’s promising. I attempted to get a quote on one of my camera models that I made on Womp a while back, to which Womp has quoted me a whopping $181 to print at a height of about 3 inches. The Print mode when designing in Womp lets you use a banana for scale, and you can prep your print for different sizes, but after playing around with this, it still resulted in a hefty quote price for me as a non-Pro user. If I were to join Womp Pro and hollow out the model for printing, the price would reduce from $181 to $33, which still seems far too expensive for a small 3-inch model.
Benefits of Resin Printing
On the plus side, I totally understand Womp’s choice in using smoother resin materials over the more commonly used PLA plastic, given that rugged layer lines and general imperfections can be rife with FDM printing and very unpredictable. Resin printing usually offers unmatched detail and smoother finishes in comparison, and I’m very eager to try a resin printer out for myself soon to see the difference.
Tips and Considerations
One thing to be cautious of if you’re planning to try out Womp’s 3D printing service is that you’ll need to account for drainage holes in your model design. This is super important with SLA printing, as any trapped liquid must be able to drain out or else it will not cure properly and remain as liquid, causing pressure to form and damaging the printed model. Womp says that if you forget or choose not to add drain holes in your model, the 3D printing technicians may place one themselves.
Conclusion
Womp’s new 3D printing service is an exciting development in the world of accessible 3D modeling. While the prices may be a bit steep for some, the benefits of resin printing and the ease of use of Womp’s platform make it a great option for creatives who want to bring their designs to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What kind of 3D printing technology does Womp use?
A: Womp uses laser SLA (Stereolithography) technology.
Q: What kind of materials does Womp use for 3D printing?
A: Womp uses industrial-grade White Prototyping Plastic (WPP) resin materials for now, with more options coming soon.
Q: Can I design and print my own models with Womp?
A: Yes, Womp offers a user-friendly web-based 3D modeling app that allows you to design and print your own models.
Q: How much does Womp’s 3D printing service cost?
A: Prices vary depending on the size and complexity of the model, but Womp offers a 7-day free trial of Womp Pro, which costs $12.99 per month or $9.99 per month on an annual plan.
Q: Do I need to add drainage holes to my model design?
A: Yes, you’ll need to account for drainage holes in your model design to ensure proper printing and to avoid damage to the printed model.
