How Custom 3D Printing Works | MiniHalla
How Custom 3D Printing Works at MiniHalla
From Your 3D Model to a Physical Print
Have a 3D model you'd love to bring to life? MiniHalla's custom 3D printing service gives you a way to turn suitable model files into physical pieces for tabletop gaming, collecting, terrain building and other projects.
Whether you're planning a detailed fantasy miniature or a larger terrain piece, we'll work with you to understand what you need and determine whether we can print it.
Here's how the process works.
Step 1: Find Your Model
Start with the 3D model you'd like us to print.
You'll generally need an STL file, although we may be able to consider other formats depending on the project.
Before sending a file, please make sure you have permission to have it printed commercially. Some creators allow personal printing but restrict commercial printing or the sale of physical prints.
If you're unsure about a model's licence, check the creator's terms before proceeding.
Step 2: Email Us About Your Project
Send your enquiry to:
Please include as much information as possible to help us understand your requirements.
- The model you want printed and its file format.
- Your preferred dimensions or approximate height.
- The number of copies you need.
- Whether you think resin or FDM printing would be suitable.
- Any specific requirements, such as splitting a large model into parts.
- Your deadline, if you have one.
If the model file is too large to attach to your email, tell us which model you want printed and ask us how best to provide the file.
Please do not assume that a download link or file-sharing service will be suitable until we've agreed how to receive the files.
Step 3: We'll Review Your Requirements
Every custom project is different, so we'll assess the requirements before confirming whether we can take it on.
This may include considering:
- The model's overall dimensions and level of detail.
- Whether it suits resin or FDM printing.
- Whether the model fits our available equipment.
- Whether supports, adjustments or splitting into parts may be needed.
- The material and finishing requirements.
- Any relevant model licensing restrictions.
Not every file will be suitable for printing exactly as supplied. If we identify a limitation, we'll discuss it with you before proceeding.
Step 4: Receive Your Quote
Once we've reviewed your requirements, we'll provide a quote for the proposed job if it's something we can undertake.
The price may depend on factors such as the model's size, material, print time, material usage, preparation and any agreed finishing work.
We'll clarify what is included and discuss any important limitations before you decide whether to proceed.
No custom printing will begin until the job requirements and price have been agreed.
Step 5: Printing and Preparation
Once the details are agreed, we'll arrange the printing using the method and material appropriate to the job.
Depending on the project, this may involve support removal, cleaning, curing for resin prints or other preparation.
Additional work, such as assembly, painting or specialist finishing, should not be assumed to be included unless it has been agreed as part of your quote.
We'll aim to produce a print that meets the agreed requirements, although the final surface finish and level of detail depend on the original model, material and printing process.
Step 6: Fulfilment
Once the job is ready, we'll arrange the agreed fulfilment method and communicate the relevant details with you.
Delivery or collection arrangements, costs and estimated timescales will be confirmed as part of the order process.
If you have a particular deadline, please tell us at the beginning. We can then assess whether it is achievable before accepting the job.
Which Printing Method Should I Choose?
Resin Printing
Resin printing is generally well suited to detailed miniatures, fantasy characters, monsters and intricate models.
Explore our Resin Printing page to learn more.
FDM Printing
FDM printing is often a practical option for terrain, buildings, scenery and larger accessories.
Explore our FDM Printing page to learn more.
If you're unsure which method is appropriate, explain what you want to print in your email and we'll assess the options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you print any STL file?
Not necessarily. The model must be compatible with our equipment and suitable for the intended printing method. Licensing restrictions also apply, so please make sure you have the necessary permission for commercial printing.
Can you resize my model?
Resizing may be possible, depending on the model. However, changing dimensions can affect details, proportions, wall thickness and printability. Tell us your preferred size so we can assess it.
Can you print multiple copies?
We can assess requests for multiple copies. The feasibility and price will depend on the model, quantities and production requirements.
Will my model arrive painted?
Painting is not automatically included in a custom-printing quote. Please tell us if you require painting or other finishing so we can discuss what is available for your project.
How long will my order take?
Timescales depend on the model, print method, preparation required and current workload. We'll discuss the expected timescale before confirming the job rather than promising a universal turnaround time.
What if I don't know which printer or material I need?
That's fine. Tell us what the model is, how you intend to use it and the size you have in mind. We'll consider which printing method may be appropriate.
Ready to Get Started?
If you've found a model you'd love to bring to life, we'd be happy to hear about it.
Email ContactUs@minihalla.com with your project details, and we'll take it from there.
MiniHalla — Amazing Miniatures. Brilliant Prices.