How to Care for and Store Your 3D Printed Miniatures
3D printed miniatures and figurines are works of art, passion projects, and sometimes even the centerpiece of a carefully curated collection. Whether you use them for tabletop gaming, painting competitions, or display, these finely detailed minis deserve proper care to keep them looking their best. Unlike mass-produced plastic figures, resin miniatures have a unique level of detail but can also be more fragile if not handled correctly. With the right care and storage, you can keep your minis in top shape for years to come.
In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about caring for and storing your resin miniatures, from handling them safely to preventing warping and brittleness. Whether you’re a gamer, a hobbyist painter, or a dedicated collector, these tips will help you protect your minis and preserve their incredible detail.
Handle Your Miniatures with Care
Unlike injection-molded plastic, 3D printing resin is more brittle and prone to snapping under pressure, especially in thin or delicate areas like weapons, limbs, or outstretched details.
Always hold your miniatures by their sturdier parts, such as the base or thicker sections of the model, rather than gripping small or extended elements that could easily break off. When working on them, whether assembling, painting or moving them, use a soft, padded surface to minimize the risk of damage if they slip from your hands.
It’s also important to avoid unnecessary bending or flexing of parts, as resin doesn’t have the same flexibility as plastic. If a part does become slightly warped, gentle heat from warm water or a hairdryer can help reshape it, but excessive force should never be applied.
When transporting miniatures, use protective cases with foam inserts to keep them from knocking against each other, preventing chips or fractures. By being mindful of how you handle your miniatures, you can keep them in pristine condition, preserving both their structure and the hours of effort put into painting and assembling them.
Properly Cleaning Your 3D Printed Miniatures
Cleaning resin 3D-printed miniatures is a crucial step in preparing them for painting and ensuring they stay in top condition. Resin minis often have residual oils, dust, or tiny bits of uncured resin left from the printing process, which can interfere with paint adhesion.
To clean them properly, gently wash each miniature in warm, soapy water using a soft brush or toothbrush to reach small crevices. Avoid using hot water, as extreme heat can soften or warp resin. After scrubbing, rinse thoroughly with clean water and let the mini dry completely before priming or painting.
Cleaning already painted resin miniatures requires extra care to avoid damaging the paint job while still removing dust, dirt, or grime. The safest method is using a soft, dry brush, like a makeup brush or small paintbrush, to gently sweep away dust from the surface and into the crevices.
Compressed air (set to low pressure) can also help remove loose debris without direct contact. If a deeper clean is needed, lightly dampen a microfiber cloth or cotton swab with water and gently wipe the surface, avoiding excessive moisture that could affect the paint or varnish.
Protect Your 3D Printed Miniatures from Sunlight
Protecting resin 3D-printed miniatures from sunlight is essential for maintaining their quality and longevity. Prolonged exposure to UV light can cause the resin to become brittle, making it more prone to cracking or breaking over time. Additionally, sunlight can lead to discoloration, causing once-vibrant details to fade or yellow.
To prevent this, it’s best to store miniatures in a shaded or enclosed space, such as a display cabinet with UV-filtering glass or a storage case. If displaying them on a shelf, choose a spot away from direct sunlight or use curtains and blinds to limit exposure.
For extra protection, sealing your painted miniatures with a UV-resistant varnish adds a layer of defense against light damage. Matte, satin, or gloss varnishes designed for miniatures help preserve both the paint job and the underlying resin.
If you take your minis outside for photography or gaming sessions, try to keep exposure brief and avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for extended periods. With a little care, you can prevent UV damage and keep your miniatures looking as detailed and vibrant as the day you got them.
Seal Your 3D Printed Miniatures with Varnish
Sealing your resin 3D-printed miniatures is one of the best ways to protect both the paint job and the miniature itself. A good quality varnish acts as a protective shield, preventing chipping, scratches, and wear from handling. It also helps lock in the paint layers, ensuring that all your hard work stays intact over time.
There are three main types of varnish to choose from, matte, satin, and gloss, each providing a different finish. Matte varnish reduces shine and gives a realistic look, satin offers a slight sheen without being too glossy, and gloss enhances vibrancy and adds an extra tough layer of protection.
When sealing your miniatures, apply the varnish in light, even coats to avoid pooling or cloudiness. Spray varnish works well for full coverage, but brush-on varnish allows for more control, especially in specific areas. If using a spray, always apply it in a well-ventilated area and keep the can at a proper distance to prevent overapplication.
For maximum durability, applying multiple thin coats rather than one heavy coat is best. A properly sealed miniature not only looks great but also stands up better for regular use, making it a must for gamers, painters, and collectors alike.
Store Your 3D Printed Miniatures Correctly
Proper storage is essential for keeping your resin 3D-printed miniatures safe from damage, dust, and environmental wear. Resin can be fragile, so storing your minis in a way that prevents bending, chipping, or breaking is key.
Foam-lined cases, miniature display cabinets, or plastic storage boxes with dividers are great options to keep them secure. If storing multiple miniatures together, make sure they aren’t pressed against each other to avoid accidental damage. For extra protection, bubble wrap or soft padding can help cushion delicate parts, especially for transportation.
Avoid exposing miniatures to extreme temperatures or humidity, as heat can cause warping, and moisture can weaken paint or lead to resin degradation over time. If using a display shelf, consider keeping them in a dust-free cabinet or covering them with a clear acrylic case to protect against dirt buildup.
For long-term storage, silica gel packets can help absorb excess moisture and prevent any potential issues. With the right storage setup, your miniatures will remain in pristine condition, whether they’re part of a gaming army or a carefully curated display collection.
Final Thoughts
Caring for and storing your resin 3D-printed miniatures doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure they remain as stunning as the day you first got them. From handling with care to cleaning, sealing, and storing them properly, each part of the process plays a vital role in preserving the incredible detail and durability of your miniatures.
Ultimately, your 3D-printed miniatures are more than just models, they’re pieces of art and personal passion. With a little attention to detail and the right care, they can continue to shine in your collection, at your gaming table, or in your painted showcase. Keep your minis safe, and they’ll keep bringing you joy for many years to come!