3D Printing: Miniatures

In this hands-on production studio, students design, print and paint their own miniature hero. Starting with Tinkercad, we teach basic modeling techniques. Then we learn how to optimize for Bambu Lab FDM 3D printers, making sure that the designs work for painting. The process comes to its last step in painting their creation, priming, dry brushing and washing their prints to make them pop.

We emphasize Process and Discipline. Students will learn how to care for delicate equipment, manage digital files, and maintain a clean artist’s workspace.

What they do:

• Design: Create custom characters using TinkerCAD.

• Print: Watch their designs come to life on high-speed robots.

• Paint: Learn base-coating, washing, highlighting, and brush care.

What they take home:

• A custom "Hero" miniature displayed on a scenic 65mm hex tile.

• Practice prints and test pieces.

• The digital files of their work.

There is a materials fee of $35 to cover the cost of filament and paint.