For short-run, complex products, direct 3D printing is a good solution. Hollow objects, parts with complex geometries, thin parts too fragile to demould or for small limited batches where a master prototype and mould making set up costs just don’t make sense.

If you are looking for direct 3D printed manufacturing for your products, we run a suite of DLP 12k 3D Printers. These printers offer superb detail of under 20 micron XY pixel size and 20 micron Z layers. Which ensures every detail of your sculpts are picked up. We have a 4 stage post-processing method to clean your prints as effectively as possible and make sure those details remain sharp and defined.

Of course there are some disadvantages of this process. So you can manage your expectations, you should bear in mind:

• For batches of over 10,000 models, production can take a month or more.
• One-off set up cost, if your files are unsupported, we charge a setup cost of £25 a standard character miniature. 
• For large models like dragons, large mechs, tanks etc – it is more costly and slow than casting resin.

But this new type of 3D printed manufacturing does offer some strong advantages, when compared to traditional methods:

• No initial start-up cost. With no initial investment, providing us supported files – you just pay for what stock you need.
• No mould lines or complex assemblies. With parts that would have to be split into many pieces for casting, 3D printing them can keep them as one object. Meaning less seam lines and joins for customers to deal with. 
• Creative freedom. With none of the traditional limitations from undercuts, hollows, material shrinkages. Direct 3D printing has far less constraints than traditional manufacture.