Resin (SLA) 3D Printing

Resin printing is for small parts that need fine detail and a smooth surface. Think miniatures, figurines, jewelry masters, small display models and tiny parts with sharp edges and crisp text. We print resin in Olalla, WA on a 16K-resolution resin printer, alongside our FDM printers.

Upload a file and choose resin · No file? Describe it

How resin printing works

A resin printer builds the part upside down, one thin layer at a time, by shining a UV image through the bottom of a vat of liquid resin. Each flash hardens a full layer at once. The part is then washed in alcohol and cured under UV light. Strictly speaking our printer is MSLA (masked SLA), but most people just call it SLA or resin printing.

What resin is good for

• Miniatures and figures for tabletop games and display.
• Fine detail like small text, textures and thin features that FDM can't resolve.
• Smooth surfaces that need little sanding before paint.
• Small precise parts such as model car pieces, connectors and enclosures for small electronics.
• Masters for casting silicone molds.

Complex shapes, fine detail

These miniatures came off our resin printer still standing in their support structures. Thin limbs, small joints and fine surface detail print cleanly in one piece. The supports snap off, and the parts are ready for sanding and paint.

When FDM is the better choice

• Bigger parts. Resin build volumes are smaller and resin costs more per gram.
• Tough functional parts. Standard resins are stiff but brittle. PETG or ASA on an FDM printer handles impact, sun and heat better.
• Outdoor use. Most resins yellow and weaken in sunlight.
• Food contact. Resin parts are not food safe.

Not sure? Upload the file and tell us what the part does. We will suggest resin or FDM, whichever fits better. Compare plastics on our materials page.

Resin vs FDM at a glance

Related: SLS nylon printing · 3D printed injection molds