How to Prepare a Model for High-Detail 3D Printing

Whether you’re printing a 28mm tabletop hero or a 1:10 showpiece, great results start with careful preparation. Here’s our studio checklist.

1) Orient with cleanup in mind

Rotate parts to tuck supports onto hidden faces such as undersides and cape interiors. Keep critical features like faces and emblems away from support contact.

2) Hollow and add vents

Hollow thick parts to 2–3 mm walls and add drain/vent holes at low/high points. This reduces suction forces and resin usage while improving success rate.

3) Thicken delicate edges

Anything thinner than 0.6–0.8 mm risks failure at 50 µm layers. Slightly embolden blades, spikes, and fingers to preserve silhouette after sanding and priming.

4) Smart support strategy

Use light supports for small features and medium supports for structural areas. Increase tip count on heavy overhangs, and always test-print small sections first.

5) Key and split for assembly

Create mechanical keys and alignment pins. Split parts at natural seams (belts, armor plates) and add escape angles for easy mold release if casting later.

6) Post-process like a pro

Rinse in fresh IPA, soft-brush crevices, and fully cure under controlled UV. Wet-sand with 600–1200 grit and prime with a filler primer before paint.

Want our team to handle prep through paint? Explore our services or contact us for a free consult.