When I first stepped into the world of 3D printing, I didn’t realize just how much the type of printer I chose would impact the quality of my projects. Like many others, I started with a basic FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer. It was great for learning the ropes, but as I got more serious about detail and finish, I knew it was time to level up. That’s when I discovered the resin 3D printer—and it completely changed the game for me.

Why I Made the Switch to Resin 3D Printing

At first, I was hesitant. I’d heard resin printers were messy, complicated, and maybe even a little intimidating. But after seeing what some creators were making—hyper-detailed miniatures, smooth custom parts, and even jewelry—I was intrigued.

So, I dug into research and found that resin printers, especially those using LCD or SLA technology, offer incredibly fine resolutions compared to FDM printers. Where FDM builds layer by layer with melted filament, resin printers cure liquid resin using UV light, capturing much finer details with smoother surfaces.

The final push? I wanted to print highly detailed tabletop miniatures that didn’t require hours of post-processing. Resin seemed like the obvious choice.

Choosing My First Resin 3D Printer

There are dozens of resin 3D printers out there, and choosing one felt overwhelming at first. I focused on three main things:

1. Print Quality – I needed high resolution and fine detail.

2. Ease of Use – Since I was new to resin, I wanted a printer with a user-friendly interface.

3. Price – I didn’t want to break the bank on my first machine.

After browsing forums and watching countless YouTube reviews, I landed on a mid-range model that had great community support and a reputation for reliability. A bonus was that it came with a protective cover that reduced resin odor—something I hadn't thought about but now really appreciate.

What Surprised Me About Resin 3D Printing

I’d be lying if I said it was all smooth sailing at first. There’s definitely a learning curve with resin printing, and some trial and error involved. Here are a few things that caught me off guard:

1. Post-Processing Is a Thing

With FDM, I usually just peeled my print off the bed and called it a day. But with resin, there’s a multi-step cleanup process: rinsing the model in isopropyl alcohol, removing supports, and then curing it under UV light.

The upside? Once you get the hang of it, the results are stunning. And honestly, the post-processing starts to feel like a satisfying ritual more than a chore.

2. Safety Matters

Resin is a chemical, so gloves and good ventilation are must-haves. I ended up setting up my printer in a well-ventilated garage and invested in a decent pair of nitrile gloves and safety glasses. It's not scary, but it's definitely something to respect.

3. The Detail Is Worth It

The level of detail a resin 3D printer offers is just mind-blowing. Tiny facial expressions, intricate armor designs, and even the texture of clothing all come out crisp and clean. No stringing, no blobs—just smooth, clean prints that need minimal sanding.

Tips I Wish I Knew When Starting Out

Now that I’ve had several months of hands-on experience, I’ve gathered a few tips that would have saved me some headaches early on:

• Level your build plate every time. Don’t skip this. Even a slightly unlevel plate can ruin your print.

• Use a resin-compatible slicer. I had better luck with software like Lychee or ChiTuBox, which are tailored for resin workflows.

• Batch print. Since post-processing is a bit involved, I’ve found it more efficient to queue up multiple models and print them all at once.

• Keep your exposure settings dialed in. This varies by resin type and printer, but forums and test files can help you get it just right.

Comparing Resin and FDM Printers: Which Is Right for You?

If you're debating whether to invest in a resin 3D printer, it helps to understand what kind of projects you’ll be working on.