3d Printing

scroll down for things to make!

Using 3d printers for miniatures can be so much fun! It just takes a little bit of learning, both the software and the printer itself. I started teaching myself by learning Tinkercad. I’ve explored other programs, but for printing dollhouse miniatures, I’ve found I haven’t needed much more than that, since you are just working with basic shapes to be printed and there’s no need for shading or lighting effects that other advanced programs offer.

I use both Illustrator and Photoshop to start designing my models. Then I’ll either upload it to Tinkercad, or if it’s a Photoshop 3D file, I can put it directly into my slicer (I use Ultimaker Cura).

I have 2 different types of printers: FDM (prints using PLA filament) and SLA (uses resin). They are both very affordable and fairly small, but you really don’t need much space to print miniatures! Here are the two (as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.)

I started with an FDM printer. It uses PLA filament to create your model. These days I use the Creality Ender3. Once you get it put together - there is a video to watch, instead of using the printed instructions - it’s very easy to use and in a house with pets and kids, there’s no worry about toxic fumes or smells. It’s also fun to watch your print take shape on the printing bed.

I always knew I would need a resin printer. They just offer more detail and possibilities. I’m also a little crazy about chemicals and toxins in my house, so I held off getting one for a long time because of the fumes, until Anycubic came out with plant-based resin (found here). So I got this Anycubic Photon printer. It has a very small build plate, but it’s plenty big for dollhouse miniatures!

I’m happy to share here some of the items I’ve made so anyone can give it a try!