So to start, I know pretty little about 3d printing, which is why I came here. I have seen the machines work, know that you need a file, there's different materials, not much else. I'm not really looking to get into this as a hobby as I don't really have the time, and certainly don't have the money (maybe later if things change). I just have this one thing (at the moment anyway) that I would like printed, but I have a couple of questions to see if I even want to proceed or not. I just plan on getting some local company to make it for me.
So here is what I'd like to make: https://sketchfab.com/3d-models/elegant-lightsaber-hilt-19b183269b5d4577a44f3152b15df9a5
It comes in an obj file which unless I'm mistaken should be enough for me to have. If not, I know about online file converters to make it slt.
This is intended to be a hand-held prop, not just a display model. So my first question is, is that even feasible? I don't know how strong things like this are. I'm not going to be hitting anything with it, but a little bit of waving around I think would be in order.
Assuming that's ok, what material should I use? Not entirely sure I even get a choice but I think so?
Another question I have is about painting. I've seen painting guides online, but one question I have I didn't find an answer to is again, about it being hand-held. I don't want to use a paint that will come off or smudge with sweaty palms. Are any kinds better for that than others? Are any?
And how close could I likely make it look like in the link? It doesn't have to be exact, but there's metallic parts, glassy parts, kinda gives a glowy impression... or is this going to be too hard for someone with no experience? (I've painted a couple of model kits when I was a kid.)
I realize that this may not all be feasible, but I thought I'd ask here first before asking people who will want my money. :p
Without edditing the model, they can split it in 2 parts (or more) in slicer software (which is used anyway). That way you need to glue them together, sand and paint. How it looks will more depend on your sanding and painting skills than 3D printing quality. Printers can usually print up to 200 or 300 mm in all 3 dimmensions so you will end up with that many parts depending on how big you want your final product to be. Probably best to choose PETG or ABS filament since they are common and will not melt on the sun. Best to convert the file in STL and ask for a price. This kind of model, if split in 2 halves, shouldnt be difficult to print even without supports