Custom FDM 3D Printing | MiniHalla
Custom FDM 3D Printing at MiniHalla
Bigger Builds. Brilliant Possibilities.
From dungeon walls and fantasy buildings to scenery and larger tabletop accessories, FDM 3D printing opens up a world of possibilities for your gaming table.
At MiniHalla, we use FDM printing alongside resin printing because different projects benefit from different technologies. FDM is often a practical choice for terrain, buildings and larger objects where build volume and functional design matter.
Have a 3D model you'd like us to print? We'll review your requirements and help determine whether FDM printing is suitable for your project.
Email ContactUs@minihalla.com to discuss your custom-printing requirements.
What Is FDM 3D Printing?
FDM stands for fused deposition modelling. It works by heating a thermoplastic filament and depositing it in successive layers to create a three-dimensional object.
The result is a physical model built up layer by layer. Depending on the material, design and print settings, FDM can be well suited to large terrain pieces, buildings, scenery and many gaming accessories.
Like all 3D printing methods, the final result depends on the quality of the original model, material selection, print settings and any finishing work.
What Is FDM Printing Best For?
FDM printing can be particularly useful for:
- Tabletop terrain: hills, rocks, dungeon scenery and environmental features.
- Buildings: fantasy houses, ruins, towers and other architectural pieces.
- Dungeon accessories: walls, floors, doors and modular scenery.
- Larger models: suitable objects that benefit from a generous build area.
- Gaming accessories: organisers, holders, tokens and other practical items.
- Decorative props: suitable designs for display, hobby projects and gaming environments.
Whether a model is suitable depends on its dimensions, geometry, intended use and the capabilities of the printer and material.
Why Choose FDM Printing?
Practical for Larger Pieces
FDM printing is often a good choice for objects that would be expensive or inconvenient to produce using smaller resin-printing equipment.
Great for Terrain and Scenery
Buildings, walls and terrain pieces can benefit from FDM's flexibility with larger objects and common filament materials.
A Range of Material Options
Different filaments offer different characteristics. The most suitable material depends on the model, its intended use and the requirements of the project.
Ideal for Many Gaming Accessories
Some practical accessories and structural pieces are well suited to FDM printing, particularly where fine miniature detail is not the main priority.
What Should You Know Before Ordering?
FDM printing has its own characteristics. Understanding these before placing an order helps ensure the result matches your expectations.
Visible Layer Lines
FDM prints are built in layers, and those layers may be visible on the finished surface. Smaller layer heights can improve surface appearance, but print time and other factors must also be considered.
Fine Details
Tiny facial features, narrow weapons and very intricate textures may not reproduce as cleanly as they would with resin printing. Suitability depends on the model and print settings.
Model Size and Orientation
The model must fit within the available build volume. Larger pieces may need to be resized, split into components or printed in separate parts.
Supports and Finishing
Some models require supports during printing. Removing supports can leave marks, and additional sanding, assembly or finishing may be necessary depending on the agreed requirements.
Material Properties
Different filaments behave differently. Some are more suitable for detailed display pieces, while others may be preferable for functional objects or specific environmental conditions.
We will consider these factors when assessing your custom-printing request.
FDM Printing or Resin Printing?
Both technologies have useful strengths. The best choice depends on what you want to produce.
Choose FDM as a potential option when:
- Your project involves buildings or terrain.
- You need a larger object or substantial scenery.
- The design suits filament printing.
- Fine surface detail is less important than size or practicality.
Consider resin printing when:
- You're producing detailed fantasy miniatures.
- Fine facial features, scales or textures are important.
- Your model is suitable for the available resin-printing equipment.
These are general guidelines rather than fixed rules. Some projects can be produced using either method, so we'll assess your particular model before quoting.
How to Request an FDM Print
1. Prepare Your Model
Have your STL file or another agreed file format ready. Make sure you have the appropriate permission for commercial printing.
2. Email Your Requirements
Contact ContactUs@minihalla.com and tell us what you would like printed.
Include your model file or ask us how best to provide it if it is too large for an email attachment.
Where possible, also tell us:
- The model's intended dimensions.
- How many copies you need.
- What the item will be used for.
- Any material or finishing preferences.
- Your deadline, if applicable.
3. We'll Review the Project
We'll consider the model's dimensions, geometry, material requirements and suitability for our equipment.
If adjustments or splitting into parts may be necessary, we'll discuss that with you.
4. Receive Your Quote
If we can undertake the project, we'll provide a quote based on the agreed requirements.
Printing will only begin after the job details and price have been agreed.
5. Printing and Fulfilment
We'll arrange the print and any finishing work included in the quote. Delivery or collection arrangements and expected timescales will be confirmed as part of the order process.
Ready to Build Your Next Adventure?
Whether you're expanding a dungeon, creating a fantasy village or preparing scenery for your next campaign, we'd love to hear about your project.
Email ContactUs@minihalla.com with your model details, preferred dimensions and requirements. We'll review the project and let you know what may be possible.
For a complete overview of the process, visit our How It Works page. If you have a detailed miniature in mind, explore our Resin Printing page as well.
MiniHalla — Amazing Miniatures. Brilliant Prices.