Caring for Your 3D Printed Dragon
Welcome, Dragon Keeper! Now that you have your own 3D-printed guardian, it’s important to take good care of it. Our dragons may be magical in spirit, but in reality, they are made from delicate, biodegradable PLA plastic, meaning they require a little love and attention to keep them looking their best.
Follow these simple guidelines to ensure your bookshelf guardian or fantasy creature stays strong, stunning, and ready to watch over your domain for years to come.
Handle with Care
Handle with CareYour dragon is not battle-armored, so treat it gently. While articulated models are designed to move, excessive twisting, bending, or forcing joints beyond their intended range may cause damage. If your dragon has delicate wings, tails, or horns, take extra care when handling or posing.
Pro Tip:
Pro Tip:If a joint feels stiff, gently wiggle it loose rather than forcing movement. Articulated parts should flow freely rather than snap into place.
Not for Young Hatchlings (or Pets!)
Our dragons may look friendly, but they are not suitable for children under 3 years old due to small parts that could pose a choking hazard. We always recommend adult supervision for younger dragon keepers, and our recommended age is 8+
Pets & Dragons Don't Mix: Our models are not chew toys! Keep them away from curious pets who may mistake them for their next snack.
Choking Hazard Warning
Choking Hazard WarningYour 3D-printed model is a collectible, not a toy. Please keep it out of reach of small children and pets who might be tempted to chew or swallow small pieces.
Storage & Temperature Protection
Storage & Temperature ProtectionPLA plastic is biodegradable, meaning it reacts to extreme heat. To keep your dragon in peak condition, store it in a cool, dry place away from:
- Radiators, heating vents, and direct sunlight
- Windowsills or other areas with prolonged sun exposure
- Hot cars (PLA can soften at temperatures above 60°C/140°F)
Pro Tip:
If your dragon’s parts seem slightly warped due to heat, you can gently warm the affected area with a hairdryer on low heat and reshape it carefully. However, this should only be done with caution!
Materials & Strength
Materials & StrengthOur models are 3D printed using UKCA certified PLA (Polylactic Acid), a lightweight, biodegradable plastic derived from renewable sources like cornstarch.
Why we love PLA:
Eco-friendly and biodegradable Lightweight and easy to display Smooth surface for detailed prints
However, PLA is not as strong as metal or injection-molded plastic, so be mindful of drops, rough handling, or accidental squishing.
Cleaning Your Dragon
Cleaning Your DragonYour dragon may accumulate dust over time, but fear not! A little gentle cleaning will keep it looking majestic:
Use a dry microfiber cloth or soft brush to remove dust. If needed, wipe with a slightly damp cloth—but avoid soaking it!
Do not use harsh chemicals, alcohol-based cleaners, or abrasive materials, as these can damage the surface.
Pro Tip:
For hard-to-reach areas (such as between articulated joints), use a soft makeup brush or compressed air to remove dust.
Join the Dragon Keepers' Guild!
Want to share your dragon’s adventures? Connect with fellow Keepers by tagging us on Instagram @thedragonlady3dprinting with #DragonKeepersGuild. We love seeing how our dragons find new homes!
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