3D Printing FAQs

What is resin 3D printing?

Resin 3D printing is a type of additive manufacturing that uses liquid photopolymer resin and UV light to create highly detailed objects layer by layer. The process is known for producing smooth surfaces and intricate designs.

How does resin 3D printing work?

Resin printers use a light source—typically UV light—to cure (harden) liquid resin in a tank. This happens layer by layer based on a digital 3D model. Once a layer is cured, the build platform moves and the next layer is exposed and hardened, repeating until the full object is formed.

What types of resin printers are there?

There are three main types:

• SLA (Stereolithography) – Uses a laser to trace and cure each layer.
• DLP (Digital Light Processing) – Uses a projector to flash an entire layer at once.
• MSLA (Masked Stereolithography) – Uses an LCD screen to block or allow UV light to cure a whole layer simultaneously.

What are the advantages of resin printing?

• Exceptional detail and precision
• Smooth surface finish
• Great for miniatures, jewelry, dental models, and prototypes
• Faster for small, high-detail prints than FDM printing

What kind of resin is used?

There are several types depending on the application:

• Standard resin – Great for general use and models
• Tough or ABS-like resin – For stronger parts
• Flexible resin – For bendable parts
• Dental or biocompatible resin – For medical or dental applications
• Castable resin – For jewelry and metal casting

What happens after the print is done?

Once the print is finished:

1. The object is removed from the build platform.
2. It’s rinsed in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove uncured resin.
3. Then it’s cured using additional UV light to fully harden the print.
4. Supports are removed (if any), and finishing touches may be applied.