The creator does a great job with his 3D models; note the images above show 3D computer renderings.
However, the actual Shapeways FUD printouts fall short, due to limitations in the printer technology. I bought and reviewed some of these when they first came out several years ago, including the FN Mogador models on the top row of Tango's post.
As of this April 15, Shapeways has available a new improved printing technology called FXD, which I have not seen. It appears to have twice the resolution in one of the 3 axes, and may therefore produce better quality printouts, without the granularity and grooves seen in FUD. The fragility and warping issues may still be there though; TBD.
FYI, the Model Railroad fraternity cleans FUD with the solvent Bestine (heptane). Otherwise the printout will retain some of the casting wax, filling in the surface imperfections, which is why they look translucent.
Mark H.
experiments to find a better way to mount aircraft for wargaming.
