For many hobbyists of tabletop gaming and miniature painting, receiving a 3D printed miniature ordered online can be both exciting and confusing. When the package is opened, the resin model often arrives as a collection of small parts inside a plastic bag, sometimes still showing 3D print support marks or minor surface imperfections.
At ChiMova, we believe that before the miniature painting process can begin, there are several essential steps required to transform a raw print into a clean model ready for primer, painting, and finally for tabletop gameplay or shelf display. Generally, these preparation steps are collectively referred to as 3D print finishing and post-processing.
Before Finishing: Post-Curing and Cleaning
If you are going to 3D print the model by yourself from the very beginning, several basic resin printing steps must be completed. Check that the 3D printing supports used during the process are carefully removed. Make sure the model is thoroughly washed with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove any uncured resin remaining on the surface. After that, the model should also be put under a UV light for final curing, which fully hardens the resin and improves the model’s structural strength. With these basic resin print post-processing steps complete, your ChiMova miniature is ready for more detailed work.
However, even with well-tuned resin print settings, small imperfections can remain on the model. These may include tiny bumps where supports were attached, faint 3D print layer lines, or small artifacts caused by the printing process. Carefully examining the tabletop miniature under good lighting allows you to identify areas that need attention. Taking the time to check the model thoroughly at this stage helps prevent surface flaws later, especially once miniature primer and paint begin to highlight imperfections.
Support Cleanup and Removal
The first step in 3D printed resin model finishing is to remove small leftover supports and attachment points that remain after the main supports have been detached. While larger supports can usually be removed by hand or with flush cutters, tiny contact points may still remain on the surface of the miniature.
ChiMova recommends using precision hobby tools such as hobby knives (X-Acto blades), micro cutters, or fine tweezers for this step. By gently cutting or scraping away the remaining material, hobbyists can reduce the size of the support marks and make the surface easier to smooth during the sanding stage. Working slowly and with good lighting conditions is recommended, as 3D resin parts can sometimes be brittle. Careful removal of these fine supports ensures that the model is clean and properly prepared for the next step of surface refinement.
Sanding and Smoothing Resin Miniatures
Sanding can be the most time-consuming part of the miniature finishing process. Sanding sticks, small files, or fine-grit sandpaper can be used to smooth areas where supports were attached. It is often helpful to start with a slightly coarser grit sandpaper and move to finer grits (up to 1000-2000 grit) to achieve a professional ChiMova smooth finish.
Some hobbyists also choose to use a miniature rotary tool or electric sanding drill to speed up the process. While electric tools can greatly improve efficiency, they are best reserved for larger or less detailed areas of the model. For delicate features such as faces or intricate armor details, traditional hand sanding tools usually provide better precision and control.
During the resin sanding process, it is important to take proper dust protection measures. ChiMova highly recommends working in a well-ventilated area and wearing a dust mask or N95 respirator to prevent breathing in toxic resin dust. After sanding is complete, rinse the model to remove any remaining dust.
Repairing, Gap Filling, and Assembling
In some cases, the model may also require gap filling or surface repair. This is especially common if the miniature is printed in multiple parts. Tiny holes, seams, or uneven surfaces can be corrected using modeling putty (Green Stuff), liquid filler, or UV-curable resin. After the filler material has hardened, the repaired area can be lightly sanded to blend it seamlessly with the surrounding surface. Properly filling gaps in miniatures ensures that the final painted model looks cohesive and professional.
The next stage is miniature assembly. ChiMova’s large-scale models and complex figures are often printed in multiple parts to preserve detail. These parts are typically joined using cyanoacrylate adhesive (Super Glue). During assembly, it is important to test-fit (dry-fit) the pieces first to ensure proper alignment before applying glue.
Final Cleaning Before Priming
After sanding, repairing, and assembling the miniature, a final cleaning step is recommended. During finishing, sanding dust and small debris can accumulate on the model’s surface. Gently rinsing the miniature with water, using a soft brush, or blowing away dust with compressed air can help ensure the surface is completely clean and ready for the first coat of primer.
Final Thoughts on Miniature Preparation
Although finishing may seem like a preparatory step, it is one of the most important stages in working with 3D printed miniatures for tabletop games. Careful finishing ensures that the model’s surface is clean, smooth, and structurally sound. By investing time in proper sanding, repair, and model preparation, you can significantly improve the final appearance of your ChiMova miniatures and create the best possible foundation for professional miniature painting. In the end, good finishing work turns a freshly printed object into a refined miniature ready to come to life with color and creativity.