Introduction to 3D printing

Jun 07, 2022

Introduction to 3D printing

El Greco Miniatures is expanding and introducing 3D Printing services to its webstore. 3D sculpting and printing are now well integrated in the hobby with hundreds of talented creatives releasing 3D-sculpted models for general release.

How is a resin print different from a resin cast?

Examples of 3D Printed miniatures

A traditional resin cast is produced by taking a master of a figure/bust which is then placed in a mould. Once the mould is set, resin is poured into the mould and left to cure. Once set, the casting is ready. A 3D resin print is quite a different process to traditional casting, requiring a 3D printer and digital files of the figure/bust. Models are sculpted digitally in a 3D software package (e.g. Zbrush), then the file is exported for printing using a 3D printer.

We are using SLA Resin printers, which are capable of printing in much smaller increments, down to 10 microns resulting in smaller layer increments and finer detail. We print at a layer height of 0.03mm (30 microns). This is a nice compromise between the highest detail we offer at 0.03mm and the standard of 0.05mm, while also printing in a reasonable time. 3D printed figures are printed in parts and do require assembly. In doing so, we can maximise the detail of the model and minimise the supports distorting the details.

Commercial 3D printing is only possible when a commercial license is obtained from the rights holder. Licenses are limited to physical 3D prints and prohibit distribution of digital files.

Please note that 3D printed miniatures are printed on demand and can take up to five to ten working days to dispatch.