Posted on 5 June, 2024

Welcome to the vibrant world of Fantasy Prints, nestled in the heart of Preston, where we bring the realms of fantasy and fairy tales to life through our intricate 3D printed toys. Our creations range from majestic dragons to whimsical mythical creatures and playful animals, all crafted with the utmost attention to detail and quality. These pieces are designed not just as toys, but as works of art that invite imagination and wonder into your everyday life.

As you immerse yourself in the enchantment of our designs, it’s essential to know how to maintain and care for these treasures to ensure they continue to spark joy and wonder for years to come. Today, we're diving deep into the best practices for caring for your 3D printed toys. Whether you’re a seasoned collector of our unique creations or have recently discovered the joy of 3D printed art, these tips will help you preserve the beauty and integrity of your pieces. Proper care not only maintains the aesthetic appeal of your toys but also ensures their durability and longevity. Let’s explore how you can keep your fantasy figures in perfect condition, making them a lasting part of your home or collection.

Understanding 3D Printed Materials

At Fantasy Prints, our toys are crafted using PLA (Polylactic Acid), a biodegradable and environmentally friendly plastic derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugar cane. This material is not only good for the planet but also fantastic for creating detailed and durable toys. However, PLA, while sturdy, requires careful handling to maintain its best condition. It's sensitive to heat and can be affected by direct sunlight, so understanding this will help you better care for your toys.

To ensure the longevity of your 3D printed toys, keep them in cool, shaded areas away from direct sunlight to prevent any warping or discolouration. Additionally, PLA can react to excessive humidity, so it's advisable to store your toys in a controlled environment where humidity levels are stable. This helps prevent the material from becoming brittle over time, maintaining the structural integrity of your cherished figures.

Regular Cleaning Tips

Keeping your 3D printed toys clean is crucial, not just for aesthetic reasons, but for maintaining the material integrity of PLA. Regular dusting with a soft, dry brush can prevent dust accumulation that might scratch the surface. For deeper cleans, especially if the toys have been frequently handled or have begun to collect grime, a more thorough approach is necessary.

Mix lukewarm water with mild soap for a gentle cleaning solution—this will be effective without being harsh on the PLA material. Use a soft cloth or a soft-bristled toothbrush for those hard-to-reach areas, ensuring you avoid abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the toy. After cleaning, it’s important to dry your toys thoroughly but gently with a soft towel, then allow them to air dry completely before placing them back in their display spots to avoid any moisture-related damage.

Avoiding Chemical Damage

It's vital to avoid using harsh chemicals on your 3D printed toys as these can cause severe damage to PLA. Harsh chemicals can react with the plastic, leading to discolouration, weakening of the material, or even irreversible damage. If you need to disinfect your toys, opt for milder solutions such as a mix of vinegar and water, which is gentle yet effective.

Always test any cleaning solution on a small, less conspicuous area of the toy first to ensure that it won’t damage the finish or integrity. This step is crucial for maintaining the vibrant colours and detailed finishes that make your 3D printed toys unique and attractive.

Proper Storage Solutions

Proper storage is crucial for the longevity of your 3D printed toys. Avoid storing your toys in places where they might be exposed to extreme temperatures as PLA can expand or contract, leading to cracking or warping over time. The ideal storage solution should maintain a consistent, moderate temperature and protect the toys from any direct heat sources.

When storing toys in boxes or drawers, cushion them with soft materials like foam or felt to prevent them from knocking into each other or against hard surfaces, which could cause chipping or scratches. For those who prefer to display their toys, ensure that your shelves are not overcrowded to reduce the risk of accidents and provide each toy enough space to be appreciated fully.

Handling With Care

Handling your toys with care is essential, especially when moving them or if they are being used by children. Teach children to handle the toys gently, respecting them not only as toys but also as art pieces. Always lift the toys with both hands and avoid grabbing them by delicate parts like wings or antennas, which might be more prone to breaking.

If a toy does break, consider repairing it rather than discarding it. Super glue can work wonders on PLA, and a well-done repair can extend the life of your beloved toy significantly. Handling toys with care will not only preserve their physical condition but also their aesthetic appeal.

Designed for Durability

At Fantasy Prints, our toys are not only creatively designed but also crafted to be sturdy and well-made. Each toy is constructed with durability in mind, created to withstand the test of time with proper care. By following these care tips, you can help ensure that your Fantasy Prints toys last even longer, preserving the magic and wonder they bring to your home.

Our commitment to quality and durability means that each piece is not just a toy, but a potential heirloom that can be enjoyed by future generations. With a little effort in maintenance, these toys can continue to inspire and delight for many years, becoming cherished parts of your family’s story.

Conclusion

Caring for your 3D printed toys from Fantasy Prints ensures they remain a joyful part of your life for years to come. By adhering to these guidelines—regular cleaning, careful handling, proper storage, and avoiding harsh chemicals—you can maintain your toys in prime condition. Proper care doesn't just preserve the aesthetic appeal of these pieces; it also ensures their durability and longevity. Whether they're displayed on a shelf or used in play, your 3D printed toys can continue to inspire and delight with a bit of mindful maintenance.

If you have any questions or need further advice on caring for your specific toys, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected]. We’re here to help and love hearing from our community. Let's keep the magic alive together, one well-cared-for toy at a time!