Once I had my design almost done I started printing some on paper to get the scale right, I also carved one from wood to get a feel for the size and shape even better, plus it made the kids happy
I did 3 sizes in total, the 1st was way too small and the second was too big, the final size is the one my daughter is holding.
Once this competition is over I plan to keep the sword and plan some other items to go with it on display in my collection/gaming room, so the design is as close to the sword in the game as I could get it with a couple of added extras, the memory will be added later in the build.
I've printed most of the parts now and started to join them, maybe 90hrs printing in total so far.
As with most 3D printed things, this is going to need a lot of sanding and filling to remove all signs it was printed, the is almost always the hardest part to get perfect.
one half of the sword printed minus the bolts and I also plan to replace the text that was printed with some more detailed versions if it goes to plan.