Or they could just 3D print metal. Or really cheat and just print on paper.

Or use a VR toolkit to create the experience of something printed on paper that never was. :)

Interesting how completely different skills have all been about creating something you read, from chiseling rock to simulated light rays.

You missed "wire in the brain that makes you feel sure you've just seen something printed".

But seriously, I think someone who's casting movable type in their baking sheets probably isn't interested in virtualizing the end product.

Post author (and noob cliche printer) here. I am, in fact, interested in virtualizing the end product, for tasks ranging from closer analysis, virtual restoration, computer vision work (see links in the post and elsewhere on my site) and conceivably, for reproduction by a 3d printer or industrial prototyper. However, we do already have cheap, robust and high-quality methods of making a printing surface from a printed impression or artwork, notably photo-etching in metal or polymer. So I am not sure what 3d printing would give you apart from the satisfaction of closing the circuit.. but it's on my list of things to try, alongside stereotyping with papier mache.