Printer is almost always seen as a serious device used for serious purposes. Printers are used for printing office documents, school assignments, family photographs, and other very “serious” endeavours. However, what most people don’t realise is that printers can also be used for fun. For instance, have you ever heard of people who print Papercraft models?
Papercraft models are essentially 3D models made up of paper being set in the right places. In fact, if you enjoy putting together those cut-outs you get in chocolates like Kinder Joy, then you may want to plan a day in which you can print Papercraft models and assemble cut-outs with your family. Here’s how you can go about doing this.
What Kind Of Papercraft Models Can You Use?
The reason why some people love to print Papercraft models is that the act appeals to their imagination and requires a certain level of skill. However, the real secret is the wide variety of Papercraft models that are available online.
Printing Papercraft models is a dream for geeks who like to geek out on their sci-fi, video game, fantasy books, and pop culture icons. It is also highly attractive to people who love doing arts and crafts.
The hobby itself was at its peak in the middle of the last century. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t fanatics today as well. As a matter of fact, Papercraft models available these days are much more diverse.
You’ll find models of every type ranging from The Enterprise in Star Trek to cubees of famous people like Steve Jobs if you decide to print Papercraft models. More importantly, these downloads are completely free. Here are some famous Papercraft models that you can use.
Settings to Keep In Mind While You Print Papercraft Models
Papercraft models will mainly be available in PDF formats. So, you should have the required Adobe software on your computer. Once your download is complete and you’re ready to print Papercraft models, you need to be careful of some things.
First, make sure that the page scaling off before you press that print button or the printer may shrink the components of your Papercraft model in size. Next, you need to make sure that the print quality is set to high because poorly printed Papercraft models don’t really inspire that sense of achievement.
Finally, be careful of what paper type you’re using. You can’t use the generic thin paper that you use for printing your assignments or office documents. You need something stiffer which means something thicker.
Try to get card stock paper for this job since it would make it easier for you to print Papercraft models and assemble the disparate components. 200 GSM is usually considered to be very good for models but in some cases 160 GSM may work too.
It will also be advisable for you to use laser printers to print Papercraft models. The reason for this is that when you apply glue to stick together different Papercraft components, the glue may make the ink on the paper bleed a little.
General Tips to Keep In Mind While You Print Papercraft Models
Printing Papercraft models and setting them up seems like a very easy task but it can quickly become complicated.
For instance, one wrong cut or glue can mean that your whole project has gone to dust and that you’ll have to redo the whole thing from scratch.
Needless to say, this means reprints, recuts, re – glues, and essentially more investment of time and money.
Also, if you’re new to printing Papercraft models, it may be a good idea to start simple and small. Also, if you’re new to printing Papercraft models, it may be a good idea to start simple and small. Don’t go for complex models like this life-size Gundam robot made by Taras Lesko in the very beginning. Get practice and then attempt such feats.
Additionally, you should keep this cycle in mind for every component – cut, assemble, glue, cut instead of the whole model. This will allow the glue to dry before you are required to paste the next component in place.
What Is The Best Paper For Papercraft Models?
When it comes to papercraft models, the type of paper used can greatly affect the final outcome. For the best results, it’s important to choose a paper that is sturdy and will hold its shape when manipulated. While there are many types of paper available, the most commonly used paper for papercraft models is cardstock.
The thickness and sturdiness of cardstock make it perfect for crafting paper sculptures or intricate designs that require rigidity. To achieve the best results, cardstock paper with a weight of 80lb or 110lb is the most popular choice among papercrafters.
Another characteristic of cardstock that makes it ideal for papercraft models is its ability to hold secondary treatments, such as ink or embossing powder. This allows for more intricate and detailed designs that can be enhanced by the texture of the paper.
What To Print Papercraft On?
It is important to print your papercraft designs on a suitable surface. When printing papercraft models, it’s best to use paper with a weight that is compatible with your printer’s settings. Many printers can handle thicker paper weights that are commonly used in papercrafting, but it’s important to check your printer’s specifications before printing.
For the best results, it’s recommended to print papercraft designs on a paper with a minimum weight of 160gsm. This weight is sturdy enough to properly hold the shape of the design when cut and folded, while still being thin enough to easily cut through with scissors or a blade.
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