01Recommended
DLP resin · Standard resin (grey / white)
The most common choice for small figures and miniatures. Great detail and takes paint well.
- Detail
- 5/5
- Strength
- 3/5
- Large parts
- 2/5
- Cost efficiency
- 4/5
Use Case · Figures
DLPPrint figures and miniatures
in resin for crisp detail
For figures, fine layer height (around 0.05mm) and a smooth surface define the result. FDM leaves visible layer lines that need a lot of sanding, while resin (DLP/SLA) comes off the printer smooth and needs far less prep before painting.
Quick answer
Print figures and miniatures in resin (DLP or SLA): layers around 0.05 mm leave a smooth surface that needs little prep before painting. DLP with Standard resin suits small figures and SLA is better for busts over 15 cm; hollowing to a 2–3 mm shell with at least two drain holes lowers the cost.
By Seo Jeongju, CEO of WOW3DLast updated First published
Recommended process & material
02Large size
SLA resin · Standard / Tough resin
Busts and statues taller than 15cm suit SLA. Tough resin keeps thin weapons and ornaments from snapping.
- Detail
- 5/5
- Strength
- 3/5
- Large parts
- 3/5
- Cost efficiency
- 3/5
General tendencies on a 5-point scale. Real results depend on geometry, size and material.
Design checklist
4 items- 1
Solid models use a lot of resin. Hollow them to a 2–3mm wall and add at least two drain holes to cut cost.
- 2
Keep thin parts such as swords or spears at least 1mm thick, or they may break when supports are removed.
- 3
Supports leave small marks. Tell us which faces matter (e.g. the face or front) and we will support the other side.
- 4
For multi-part kits, build in 0.1–0.2mm assembly clearance so the parts glue together easily.
Sample price
One 100mm-tall figure (DLP resin)
- Example size
- 50×50×100mm
- Recommended method
- DLP
- Quantity
- 1 pcs
- Shape
- Figure
We have pre-filled the price calculator with 50×50×100mm. Change the size, material and quantity to compare prices.
See a price in the calculatorExact quote
Have a 3D file? Get an exact quote now
- 1Upload file
- 2Auto analysis
- 3Instant quote
Upload STL, OBJ, 3MF or STEP and we analyze volume and supports to price it instantly. No sign-up needed.
Real Output
Real 3D printing work by WOW3D
Parts we printed in-house on FDM, SLA and DLP machines. See more in the print gallery.
Fashion accessory
DLP · Resin
Museum exhibit models
SLA · White resin
Flexible resin mechanism
DLP · Flexible resin
Garment buttons and jig
DLP · Black resin
Frequently asked questions
QCan I print a figure with FDM?
Yes, but layer lines will need sanding and filler. FDM can make sense for figures over 20cm or when cost comes first; for detailed figures we recommend resin.
QCan you paint the figure too?
The standard quote covers printing and support removal. If you need painting or sanding, add it to the quote notes and we will follow up separately.
QAre resin figures fragile?
Standard resin is hard but less impact-resistant. For many thin protrusions or parts that get handled often, choose Tough resin.