Hi Neil,
Wise choice, my friend.
I have 2 small 3D-printers, I've been playing with for the last year.
Purchased the 2nd one just before Christmas.
Without being able to produce the electronic file needed before you can input anything into the printer, they are just an expensive door stop.
I'm no computer wizz, and am not interested in learning that, but, I am a profesional draughtsman, and have been since way before computers.
I've had to teach myself to use programs outside my normal work environment, and have been looking for the most helpful and cost effective for more than 6 years. Some things in our hobby lend themselves to laser-cutter, and/or cnc-router, and other bits are suitable for 3D-printing. To do it all with a 3D-printer would be madness.
I have successfully printed 60foot hulls at both 1:24th and 1:48th scales, albeit in sections to fit my small print envelope. And my requirement is to produce identical hulls to illustrate the stages in a particular boats life, where the superstructure has changed the appearence of the boat at various refits.
I only print the hulls, and make the superstructures by hand, as one offs.
I could send my files to have the hulls printed in one piece, via such as 'Shapeways' as Pat Matthews is doing, but this involves a more expensive approach.
I produce, for myself, various parts, usually those cast fittings found on the boats I model, and use laser-cutting for others. (don't currently own a laser-cutter).
My thoughts, continue to support these who are casting in metal and/or resin, as its by far the cheapest option for individuals.
Even parts produced on much more expensive machines by the 3D-bureau's still require hand finishing, so unless your a tinker, give it a miss.
And it will be 10years plus before the 'ink-jet' style colour printers become affordable, and the way to go.
Just my experience and thoughts
cheers
vnkiwi