Top 10 3D Printed Action Figures

3D printing has unlocked a new world for action figure enthusiasts, allowing anyone to create highly detailed, customizable figures in the comfort of their home. Whether you're an artist, a collector, or simply a fan, 3D-printed action figures bring the power of creativity and flexibility to your fingertips. Many of these models feature snap joints or articulated parts that offer greater poseability, making them ideal for display or play.

Snap-fit joints are especially crucial in 3D-printed action figures. These joints allow the figures to move and hold various poses without the need for glue or screws. By designing figures with articulated snap joints, creators can bring more life to their models, mimicking the functionality of commercial action figures while remaining accessible for home printing.

Design Software

When it comes to designing your own action figures, there are several excellent 3D design software programs available. Here are a few of the most popular options:

• Blender:This free and open-source software is a powerful tool for creating complex 3D models. It offers a wide range of features, including sculpting, rigging, and animation.
• Meshmixer:This Autodesk software is designed specifically for 3D printing. It's easy to use and offers a variety of tools for editing and preparing models for printing.
• ZBrush:This professional-grade software is used by artists and designers to create highly detailed models. It's a bit more complex than Blender or Meshmixer, but it offers a greater level of control and flexibility.
• Tinkercad:This web-based program is a great option for beginners. It's easy to learn and use, and it offers a variety of tools for creating simple 3D shapes.

Safety

When 3D printing action figures, it's important to keep safety in mind. Here are a few tips:

• Wear safety glasses:This will protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Use a well-ventilated area:Some 3D printing materials can release fumes, so it's important to work in a well-ventilated area.
• Be careful of hot parts:The nozzle of a 3D printer can get very hot, so be careful not to touch it.
• Keep small parts away from children:Small parts from action figures can be a choking hazard, so keep them away from children.

Painting and Finishing

Once you've printed your action figure, you can paint and finish it to give it a more realistic appearance. Here are a few tips:

• Prime the figure:This will help the paint adhere better to the plastic.
• Use acrylic paints:Acrylic paints are a good choice for painting action figures.
• Use a fine-tipped brush:This will help you get into all the details.
• Seal the paint:Once the paint is dry, you can seal it with a clear coat to protect it from scratches.

Advanced 3D Printing Techniques for Action Figures

As you become more comfortable with basic 3D printing, you can explore advanced techniques to enhance the quality and complexity of your action figures:

1. Multi-Material Printing

Multi-material printing allows you to create action figures with different colors or textures in a single print:

• Use dual extruder printers to combine different colored filaments
• Create flexible joints with TPU while using PLA for the body
• Experiment with soluble support materials for complex geometries

2. Advanced Post-Processing

Elevate your figures with these post-processing techniques:

• Vapor smoothing: Use acetone vapor for ABS or ethyl acetate for PLA to smooth surfaces
• Airbrushing: Apply thin, even coats of paint for a professional finish
• Electroplating: Add a metallic finish to your figures for a premium look

3. Advanced Modeling Techniques

Improve your 3D models with these advanced techniques:

• Sculpting: Use digital sculpting tools in software like ZBrush for organic shapes
• Parametric modeling: Create adaptable designs that can be easily modified
• Topology optimization: Design parts that are strong but use less material

4. Advanced Articulation

Create more dynamic figures with these articulation techniques:

• Ball-and-socket joints: Design more realistic shoulder and hip joints
• Gear mechanisms: Incorporate moving gears for unique action features
• Magnetic joints: Use small magnets for easily swappable parts

Legal and Ethical Considerations in 3D Printing Action Figures

When 3D printing action figures, it's crucial to be aware of the legal and ethical implications:

Copyright and Intellectual Property

1. Original Designs:
   • Creating and printing your own original designs is generally safe from a legal standpoint.
   • You can even sell or distribute these designs, as long as they don't infringe on existing trademarks or patents.
2. Fan Art and Licensed Characters:
   • Creating figures based on copyrighted characters (e.g., superheroes, movie characters) for personal use is often considered fair use.
   • However, selling or distributing these figures without permission is likely to infringe on copyright laws.
3. Using Others' 3D Models:
   • Always check the license of 3D models you download. Some may be for personal use only, while others allow commercial use.
   • Respect Creative Commons licenses and any attribution requirements.

Ethical Considerations

1. Safety:
   • Ensure that your 3D printed figures are safe, especially if they might be used by children.
   • Be aware of potential choking hazards from small parts.
2. Environmental Impact:
   • Consider using eco-friendly filaments to reduce environmental impact.
   • Properly dispose of or recycle failed prints and support materials.
3. Cultural Sensitivity:
   • Be mindful of cultural appropriation when designing or printing figures representing specific cultures or ethnicities.
4. Counterfeit Goods:
   • Avoid creating exact replicas of existing commercial products, as this could be seen as producing counterfeit goods.

Best Practices

1. Obtain Licenses: If you plan to sell figures based on popular characters, consider obtaining proper licenses.
2. Disclaimers: When sharing designs online, include clear disclaimers about usage rights.
3. Original Twists: If inspired by existing characters, try to add original elements to make your design unique.
4. Stay Informed: Keep up with changing laws and regulations regarding 3D printing and intellectual property.

Troubleshooting Common Issues in 3D Printed Action Figures

Even experienced makers encounter issues when 3D printing action figures. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

1. Weak or Broken Joints

Problem: Joints snap or wear out quickly.

Solutions:

• Increase infill density for joint areas
• Use stronger materials like PETG or ABS for joint parts
• Design larger contact areas for joints
• Add reinforcement ribs to joint designs

2. Warping

Problem: Parts of the figure curl up or detach from the print bed.

Solutions:

• Use a heated bed and ensure proper bed adhesion
• Apply a thin layer of glue stick or hairspray to the print bed
• Adjust first layer settings (temperature, speed, height)
• Use a brim or raft for better adhesion

3. Stringing

Problem: Thin strands of plastic between parts of the figure.

Solutions:

• Adjust retraction settings (distance and speed)
• Lower printing temperature slightly
• Enable combing mode in your slicer
• Use a heat gun to carefully remove strings post-printing

4. Layer Separation

Problem: Layers of the print don't adhere properly, causing weakness or separation.

Solutions:

• Increase printing temperature slightly
• Reduce printing speed, especially for larger parts
• Ensure proper cooling (but not too much for the first few layers)
• Check for drafts in the printing area

5. Poor Surface Detail

Problem: Fine details are lost or unclear in the print.

Solutions:

• Reduce layer height for finer details
• Use a smaller nozzle size (e.g., 0.2mm instead of 0.4mm)
• Adjust extrusion multiplier
• Consider resin printing for extremely fine details

6. Support Material Difficulties

Problem: Supports are hard to remove or leave marks on the figure.

Solutions:

• Adjust support settings (density, pattern, z-distance)
• Use soluble supports if your printer supports it
• Experiment with tree supports for complex geometries
• Carefully sand areas after support removal

7. Inconsistent Coloring

Problem: Color varies across the print, especially with multi-color designs.

Solutions:

• Ensure filament is dry (use a filament dryer if necessary)
• Calibrate multi-material switching settings
• Clean the nozzle between color changes
• Consider painting the figure for more consistent coloring

1. Open Source Action Figure with 70 Points of Articulation (aka Dexter)

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:116571
Dexter is a marvel of 3D-printed design with an extraordinary 70 points of articulation. Every joint has been engineered to provide fluid movement, allowing for a high level of realism and flexibility. Each part of the figure uses snap-fit joints, enabling easy assembly without the need for adhesives. The sheer number of movable parts makes Dexter a standout choice for those looking to create a truly poseable and interactive action figure.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: Snap-fit joints; no glue required
• Why It’s Great: The sheer number of articulation points allows for a high degree of poseability, making this model perfect for collectors, artists, or anyone interested in dynamic, detailed figures. The snap joints are engineered for smooth movement, ensuring it remains durable over time.

2. Female Action Figure with 38 Points of Articulation

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:126371
This female action figure brings another level of elegance with 38 points of articulation. It’s designed to be fully poseable, Among 3D-printed action figures, especially for those looking for extensive poseability. The model allows for experimentation with a wide range of dynamic poses, making it ideal for artists, hobbyists, or anyone wanting to push the boundaries of 3D printing articulation.

• Material: PLA for ease of printing; ABS for added strength
• Assembly: Multiple snap-fit joints that allow for highly articulated movement
• Why It’s Great: The design is streamlined yet highly flexible, making it ideal for creators who want to experiment with different poses and painting techniques. It’s easier to print than more complex models but still offers excellent articulation.

3. Maker Faire Robot Action Figure

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:331035
This Maker Faire Robot Action Figure is a beginner-friendly model, designed for ease of printing and minimal assembly. Although it’s less articulated than some of the other figures on this list, it’s a fun and educational print that introduces users to basic articulation through simple snap-fit joints in the arms and legs. It’s also an excellent display piece for Maker Faire fans and robotics enthusiasts.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: Basic snap-fit joints, simple assembly.
• Why It’s Great: This model is easy to print and assemble, making it a great project for beginners. The snap joints are easy to use, providing a functional action figure without complex parts.

4. Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Poseable)

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:164317
The Loggerhead Sea Turtle model is not just a static figure; it’s designed to be poseable, offering a great deal of interactivity. While not an action figure in the traditional sense, this model showcases the versatility of 3D printing when it comes to making articulated joints. The flippers can move, and the head can be posed, making it both educational and fun for display.

This model shows that you don’t need to restrict yourself to humanoid forms when creating articulated models. Snap joints allow for natural movement, giving a lifelike quality to this sea creature.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: Poseable directly out of the printer, no additional assembly required.
• Why It’s Great: This model brings a unique approach to poseability, using joints to create lifelike movements in an animal form. It's both an educational tool and a highly detailed display piece.

5. ETP-Bot V2 - Easy to Print with PLA

Model URL: https://www.printables.com/model/672598-etp-bot-v2-action-figure-easy-to-print-with-pla
ETP-Bot V2 is an excellent example of a simplified action figure that still offers great poseability. Designed with beginners in mind, the robot features basic articulation and snap-fit joints, making it an easy project to print and assemble. Its straightforward design ensures that even novice 3D printer users can get a fully functional action figure with minimal hassle.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: Simple snap joints, perfect for beginners.
• Why It’s Great: Its simple design and ease of printing make this model perfect for novice 3D printers, while its poseability still offers a fun, engaging end result. The PLA compatibility means it’s also highly accessible.

6. Iron Man Action Figure

Model URL: https://www.printables.com/model/118830-iron-man-action-figure
This detailed Iron Man figure brings the Marvel superhero to life through 3D printing. It offers a solid balance of articulation, thanks to its snap-fit joints at the shoulders, elbows, knees, and hips. Fans of the superhero will appreciate the level of detail, as well as the potential for customization in terms of painting and posing.

The snap joints allow for dynamic poses, letting you recreate iconic scenes from the movies. It’s a bit more complex in terms of printing, but the result is well worth the effort for any fan of the Marvel universe.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: Requires assembly with articulated snap joints.
• Why It’s Great: The attention to detail and poseability makes this Iron Man figure a must-print for Marvel fans. It’s complex enough to be satisfying for intermediate users but manageable for those with a bit of experience.

7. ATAT Kit Card - Fully Articulated

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4679744
While small in size, this fully articulated ATAT Kit Card is a delightful puzzle project that packs a surprising amount of detail. The figure can be pieced together and features snap joints that allow for some movement, even in this compact model. This action figure is an ideal holiday or collector’s item, especially for Star Wars fans.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: Puzzle-like assembly with snap-fit joints.
• Why It’s Great: The small size and fully articulated joints pack a lot of detail into a small package, making this model both fun to assemble and an impressive display piece.

8. Titanfall Atlas Mech Action Figure

Model URL: https://www.myminifactory.com/object/3d-print-titanfall-atlas-mech-action-figure-3947
The Titanfall Atlas Mech Action Figure is a detailed mech robot with multiple articulation points. Assembling this model involves working with snap joints that ensure flexibility in its arms, legs, and torso, making it a perfect representation of the iconic game character. The model's intricacy makes it a more advanced print, but the result is a highly poseable and robust action figure.

• Material: PLA or ABS for added durability
• Assembly: Moderate assembly required, snap joints provide articulation.
• Why It’s Great: The complexity and attention to detail make this figure a standout for mech fans. It’s perfect for intermediate to advanced users who want to challenge their 3D printing skills with a highly poseable and intricate model.

9. Blastoise Action Figure

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2456077
This Blastoise figure brings the iconic Pokémon to life with moving arms and cannons. It’s a great 3D printing project for fans of the series and offers some fun articulation, especially with the cannons that rotate. The design is straightforward, making it a good project for intermediate users who want to explore snap joint articulation in a simpler model.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: Simple assembly with rotating snap-fit joints.
• Why It’s Great: The rotating cannons and posable arms make this model highly interactive, offering Pokémon fans a figure that’s both customizable and functional.

10. Boo from Mario Games - Multi-Color

Model URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2824758
This Boo figure from the Mario games might not be as articulated as others on the list, but its multi-color design and fun aesthetic make it a great addition to any collection. This model highlights the variety of options that 3D printing offers, from articulated joints to colorful, static designs.

• Material: PLA
• Assembly: None required, prints as one piece.
• Why It’s Great: The multi-color printing technique allows for a vibrant, high-quality figure that stands out on any shelf. Though it’s static, its clean lines and attention to detail make it a worthy project for Mario fans.

FAQs

Is it legal to 3D print action figures?

• Yes, it’s generally legal to 3D print action figures, especially if they are open-source or fan-made. However, you should be cautious when printing figures based on copyrighted characters or designs if you intend to sell or distribute them.

Can I 3D print action figures at home?

• Absolutely! As long as you have a 3D printer and access to STL files, you can print your own action figures. The complexity of the figure may vary, but even beginners can start with simple, poseable models.

What is the best material for 3D printing action figures?

• PLA is the most popular choice due to its ease of use and affordability. However, ABS or PETG are better for stronger, more durable figures, especially if the figure will be used for play.

Who is the best manufacturer of action figures?

• For 3D-printed action figures, there isn’t a single “best” manufacturer, as many designs come from open-source platforms like Thingiverse, MyMiniFactory, and Printables.