I love making my own 3D printed cosplay costumes because I can personalize and customize them to suit my needs. I also get to learn new skills and techniques while putting them together.
Many people ask me, “do you ever get discouraged because it takes so long?” The answer is no. It takes patience, time, and effort but it’s so worth it when you see your costume for the first time!
- If you’re printing helmets, look for larger build volumes
- You can always print helmet parts and them assemble later, but the printers we listed above generally can do the printing in one go
- One thing to watch out for- printing a helmet all at once can take time, which increases the potential for failures- another reason to print the helmets in pieces (Source)
It’s not for everyone, but I enjoy doing it.
I love to make my own cosplay costumes because I find it inspirational and personally rewarding. It is rewarding in that it can be seen as an act of self-care when you feel like your life is spinning out of control.
When you are able to take the time to work on something creative, it often boosts your mood and helps reconnect with yourself.
And, now…3D printing has made it possible for people with little to no experience to create their own cosplay helmets.
The ease of use of 3D printers has led to a massive increase in the number of cosplayers, which is why I love 3D printing.
The 3 Best 3D Printers for Printing Cosplay Helmets
1) The Dremel Digilab 3D20 3D Printer
The Dremel Digilab is an easy-to-use, affordable desktop printer perfect for Printing Helmets. It’s designed to print in multiple materials. It comes with virtual design software, which allows you to create your custom helmet models using your computer before printing them out on the all-new Dremel Digilab Printer.
The new patented MultiJet Printing technology used in this printer makes sure every layer of plastic is solid, so there are no wasted prints or failed builds.
This device also includes one PLA filament spool cartridge so users can start creating right away without purchasing additional supplies until they are ready.
By integrating its high-precision print heads directly onto motors, motion resolution has improved dramatically over other printers available at this price. This results in a much higher quality finished product and saves time since developers don’t have to move the print head from side to side when printing small objects.
The model is compatible with any PC or Mac with internet access, so you can download new models online whenever inspiration strikes. The Dremel Digilab Printer connects wirelessly via WiFi.
There’s no need for an external computer or power source nearby while you’re creating your next masterpiece.
Key Features:
Industry-leading open-source software
Dremel Digilab offers powerful, easy-to-use software free for download.
Industry-leading safety features
The all-new Dremel Digilab is fully enclosed with no exposed parts to touch or clean; the machine also comes preassembled and ready to use right out of the box!
Full-color LCD Touch Screen
Built into the printer’s front panel, it makes it easy to interact with your printer at any time during a print job. This screen displays real-time data about project progress so users can see precisely how their creation is coming along in seconds instead of hours later when they check back after work has finished printing.
Countless hours of high-quality printing
Of course, there are plenty more features that make the Dremel Digilab such a superb printer, but when it comes down to brass tacks, this machine is top of its class.
Completely preassembled out of the box
The Dremel Digilab Printer is fully preassembled, so users don’t have to worry about getting stuck while assembling it.
Non-heated build plate
While some printers have a heated build plate, this one has a non-heated build plate that is PLA-only and can print at up to 230°C.
Pros:
- Industry-leading open source software
- Industry-leading safety features
- Full-color LCD Touch Screen for ease of use during prints
- Countless hours of high-quality printing
Cons:
- Non-heated build plate
- Only prints in PLA plastics
Video overview
2) The ANYCUBIC Mega-S New Upgrade 3D Printer
The ANYCUBIC Mega-S is a new and improved version of the original mega. The Mega-S has upgraded aluminum alloy parts for better durability. This printer also comes with an extra set of printing nozzles, a spare filament spool holder, plus five pieces of PLA filaments (Red, Blue, Green, White, and Black).
The AnyCubic MEGA S New Version is one of the best budget-friendly printers on the market today. When you order this beast, you get a preassembled machine that prints in outstanding quality up to 100mm/sec speeds while still offering all the features found in more expensive machines such as auto bed leveling and full extruder upgradeable nozzle.
Key Features:
High Precision & Stability
Mega S features an MK11 extruder and a Teflon coated bed for extremely stable printing; the aluminum alloy frame is sturdy enough to produce ultra-smooth prints. The speed has been increased up to 100mm/sec thanks to its strong motors (Stepping motors).
High-Grade Titan Extruder
The Mega S also comes with a high-grade Titan Extruder, which provides enhanced durability compared to standard NEMA17 stepper motor extruders while maintaining low resistance on the X-axis for improved print quality. The overall positioning accuracy of this printer can be as good as Z 0.004mm or better.
Upgraded ANYCUBIC Ultrabase
The Mega S uses an upgraded Aluminum alloy printer base, which is more stable and durable. The aluminum plate has a thickness of 12mm to provide more stability for the printing platform.
TFT Touch Screen
The Mega S features a TFT Touch Screen which allows users to preview their models on screen before printing. It has an intuitive design with easy navigation, ensuring that you can print your object the way it was meant to be printed!
Pros:
- High Quality, Efficient & Fast Prints
- Great Customer Service
- Easy to Use & Setup
- Adjustable Nozzle for Better Print Quality
- Large Filament Capabilities
Cons:
- Lackluster software interface
- Poor Packaging Design
Video overview
3) The Creality CR-10S FDM 3D Printer
The Creality CR-XS FDM is a desktop-style printer with an all-metal frame. It’s very sturdy and can print large objects compared to most other printers on the market at this price point.
With an auto bed leveling function and heated build plate, there is no need for constant manual leveling like many people had to do when they first started using their DIY kits or cheaper rebranded versions that required manual calibration every time before starting your job.
The CR-XS has an LCD screen and SD card reader that allows you to print without having your computer connected. This is great for people who want to use their printer while away from home or even in another room like the office!
While there are some pretty fancy-looking printers on the market, this comes at a cost. It’s not only more expensive but also larger so you’ll need enough space to accommodate it.
One of our biggest complaints about this machine was its weight which might make it difficult if you don’t have much storage space due to other things being stored under where you put your printer. Check out how the Creality CR 10 compares with the Ender 3.
Key Features:
https://www.instagram.com/p/B7Q5peZBVLy/
Improved frame design
The all-metal frame contributes to the durability of this printer and makes it feel like a more professional machine than others at its price point. The printer has an all-metal frame that contributes to the durability of this machine, making it feel more experienced than others at its price point.
It’s also able to print large objects, which is impressive for a printer in this category.
Upgraded Dual Z-Axis
The dual Z-axis lead screw design allows for a more precise positioning and faster printing speeds. The upgraded version has an X-axis, Y-axis and now also includes the option to upgrade your z-axis from single to duel!
Unique extrusion structure
The Creality CR-XS FDM printer has a unique extrusion structure that contributes to its stability. With the all-metal frame, this is one of the most durable printers at this price point and also has an auto bed leveling function that will save you time from constantly having to calibrate it yourself before starting your job.
Linear bearing system
This printer comes equipped with a linear bearing system that contributes to this machine’s overall durability and stability. This is one of our favorite features as it allows for smoother material flow, leading to improved printing quality.
Pros:
- Large printing area compared to other printers in its price range
- Large capacity for filament storage for continuously printing
- Improved extrusion structure for better stability and durability
- High precision, high printing speed with upgraded dual z-axis lead screw design
Cons:
- Large size might take up more space
- Heavyweight might make it difficult to move if you don’t have much storage space
- Noisy when printing larger objects
Video overview
Best 3D Printers for Printing Helmets Buying Guide
The 3D printer market has been flourishing over the past few years, and it is still growing at a rapid pace. The trend of 3D printing helmets is one of the newest developments in this area. There are many things to consider when buying the best helmet printers, but here is the list of top considerations.
1. Speed and Accuracy
A printer that can print a model in under an hour or less is suitable. A high degree of accuracy also helps, as the more accurate a helmet looks, the better it will fit on your head.
2. Materials
Most printers can print with both ABS and PLA plastic filament material types, while some only use one type over another for different models you want to make. To get the best results from each printer, determine which materials work best before purchasing.
Also, you want to make sure the material you will be using for the helmets is compatible with the 3D printer. This way, you won’t have any issues when trying to start out making helmets from scratch.
3. Size of the Printing Area
The size of the printing area is a critical factor for any aspiring buyer looking to get a helmet 3D printer. 3D printers with a larger printing area will allow you to print bigger and more complex objects. You can use them to print materials that are not suitable for smaller printing areas. This includes metal, ceramic, glass, and food.
Some high-end models also have advanced features such as dual extruders or movable build plates. These will make the design process much easier as it means you can do multiple projects at once without switching out the materials.
4. Price
The price of a printer is an essential consideration as you wouldn’t want to spend a lot on something that can only make helmets from the plastic filament. However, it also doesn’t do well buying the cheapest option either because this may lead to poor quality prints lacking detail and accuracy, which means your helmets will not fit comfortably or look good at all.
Best 3D Printers for Printing Helmets Frequently Asked Questions.
How long does it take to 3D print a helmet?
3D printing a helmet can take around 30 hours. However, the printing itself doesn’t take long. Plenty of time is spent on post-processing. This is where you get rid of the layer lines and the helmet aesthetics to make it look great. You can expect a high-quality 3D printed helmet to take around 10-50 hours depending on complexity, the number of pieces, printer speed and accuracy, and helmet size.
Can I leave the filament in my 3D printer?
Yes, you can leave a 3D printer filament if your printing environment is humid or hot. If the area is too moist or too hot, you can notice a drop in the filament quality. #3D filaments tend to absorb moisture from the air, particularly polycarbonate or nylon, which you will primarily use with 3D helmet printing.
So, if you will be leaving the filament in your 3D printer, measure the humidity and keep it in the low range.
In Summary
3D printing has been a boon for the cosplay world.
The ability to create a product from scratch has been a boon for the cosplay world. 3D printing is being used to create everything from outfits, to props, and even weapons.
Helmets are said to reduce injuries. It’s even a requirement in some countries to wear a helmet when riding a motorbike or a bicycle. And with the availability of 3D printing, it’s possible to get yourself a customized helmet with paint jobs or decals.
Besides this, you’re free to test your creativity to create something more interesting.
However, there’s one limitation; finding the best 3D printers for printing helmets isn’t that simple. The market is overflowing with 3D printers, and landing an ideal model for printing helmets can prove to be a nightmare.
Fortunately, we’ve simplified things for you; we’ve done the hard work and picked three top-rated, high-performance models ideal for 3D printing helmets.
Printing helmets with a 3D printer is not only fun but also advantageous if you want a perfect-fit, custom-made helmet. However, it would be best to have the right 3D printer for printing helmets to get the best results.
Luckily, you now have three options to choose from, and the best part is, you also have a buying guide to help you make the best selection. Good Luck!
Hello, my name’s Rush Chapman. I’m a 3D printing enthusiast. I started this site to help people choose 3D printing projects and select the best 3D printer for your needs, whether you’re a hobbyist or a pro!
