Many hobbyists hear the term resin 3D printing for miniatures, but not everyone fully understands what it means or how it works. Is it the same as plastic 3D printing? Why is resin printing so popular for tabletop miniatures? And what should you expect from a resin 3D printed model?
In this guide, we explain what resin 3D printing for miniatures is, how the process works, and why it has become the preferred method for high-detail tabletop models.
What Is Resin 3D Printing
Resin 3D printing is a process that uses liquid photopolymer resin that hardens when exposed to UV light. Instead of extruding melted plastic like filament printers, resin printers cure the model layer by layer inside a resin vat.
This method allows for:
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extremely fine detail
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smooth surfaces
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sharp edges and textures
Because of this, resin 3D printing is especially well suited for miniatures.
How Resin 3D Printing Works for Miniatures
A common question is:
How are resin miniatures 3D printed
The process usually includes several steps.
Step 1: Digital Model
A miniature is created as a digital 3D file. This file contains all the details, proportions, and pose of the model.
Step 2: Printing
The file is sent to a resin 3D printer, which builds the miniature layer by layer using UV light to cure the resin.
Step 3: Cleaning and Curing
After printing, the miniature is:
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cleaned to remove excess resin
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washed in alcohol
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fully cured under UV light
This step ensures the model is strong and stable.
Step 4: Inspection and Preparation
Supports are removed, and the model is checked for quality. Some miniatures are printed in multiple parts to protect delicate areas.
Why Resin 3D Printing Is Ideal for Miniatures
Many people ask:
Why use resin 3D printing for miniatures instead of plastic
Resin printing offers:
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higher resolution
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better surface finish
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freedom in sculpt design
Small details like facial features, armor engravings, and textures are reproduced far more accurately than with filament printing or injection-molded plastic.
Resin 3D Printing vs Filament Printing for Miniatures
Another common question is:
Is resin printing better than filament printing for miniatures
For miniatures, yes.
Filament printing:
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leaves visible layer lines
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struggles with fine detail
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is better for large, functional parts
Resin printing:
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produces smooth surfaces
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captures fine details
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is designed for small, detailed models
This is why most high-quality tabletop miniatures are resin printed.
Are Resin 3D Printed Miniatures Durable
Resin 3D printed miniatures are durable enough for tabletop use when handled properly.
They are:
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rigid
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detailed
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suitable for gaming and display
Thin parts require care, but this is a trade-off for visual quality.
Are Resin 3D Printed Miniatures Made to Order
Another frequent question is:
Are resin miniatures printed on demand
In many cases, yes.
Resin 3D printing allows miniatures to be:
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printed individually
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customized
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produced in small batches
This reduces waste and allows for a wider variety of models.
Who Is Resin 3D Printing Best For
Resin 3D printed miniatures are ideal for:
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tabletop RPG players
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miniature painters
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collectors
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custom character projects
If detail and quality matter, resin printing is usually the best option.
Final Thoughts
Resin 3D printing has changed how miniatures are made. It allows artists to create highly detailed models and hobbyists to access a wide range of characters, creatures, and custom designs without mass production.
Understanding how resin 3D printing works helps set expectations and explains why resin miniatures have become the standard for high-quality tabletop models.