Easy Entry, Create the Future: 3D Printing Makes Custom Figurines Accessible to Everyone

     2026.01.29                        NextShapes,Standard PLA,3D Printing              ＜1 minute                                                                                   

A newcomer to the world of 3D Printing shared their excitement: “I used to think that creating custom figurines of my favorite characters was an unattainable dream. Either it required advanced craftsmanship, or it meant paying a hefty price for custom creations. But when I discovered that with just an ordinary FDM printer and user-friendly filament like Standard PLA, my dream could become a reality so easily, I was amazed.”

This wave of personal creation is being driven by countless makers around the world, just like him. Whether they’re students, office workers, or fans of anime and video games, their shared goal is to use accessible technology to transform beloved 2D characters into 3D collectibles they can hold in their hands. They’ve realized that modern 3D Print charm lies in its combination of low entry barriers and impressive performance. With a vast array of open-source models and colorful, easy-to-print materials, anyone can set up a mini “manufacturing factory” on their desk and bring unique ideas to life.

To bridge the gap from “concept” to “physical object,” newcomers need a stable, easy-to-use, and effective solution that allows them to focus on the joy of creation rather than getting bogged down by complex parameter adjustments. This is precisely why NextShapes Standard PLA filament for 3d printing has become a community favorite. In recent years, such user-friendly, highly compatible filaments have significantly promoted the popularity of desktop 3D Printing, enabling non-professionals to confidently print intricate models. Many users rely on Standard PLA to print cherished anime characters, game weapons, and delicate scene models. In this article, we’ll see how 3D printing has made custom figurine creation accessible to ordinary people through the stories of community enthusiast Liam and successful newbie David.

3D Printing: Surprises from Scratch

When they first explore 3D Print, many beginners feel overwhelmed by the wide variety of materials. While some filaments have their strengths, they often require precise temperature control, speed adjustments, and machine calibrations, which can lead to frustration after repeated failures.

When searching for a material that wouldn’t discourage beginners, community expert Liam recalled: “I’ve recommended many filaments, but for newcomers, I always suggest Standard PLA first. It’s like a patient teacher—it’s incredibly stable, has low shrinkage, and hardly warps at the print bed, making the first successful 3D printing experience so much more enjoyable. Compared to other materials that might be harder to handle, it lets you build confidence quickly.”

It was under this recommendation that newbie David decided to give it a try. He printed his first Doraemon model and some simple character parts. “The whole 3D Print process was unexpectedly smooth. I downloaded models from the internet, used the preset PLA parameters in the slicing software, and clicked print,” he said. “What surprised me the most was the surface finish—very smooth, with no noticeable layer lines. After a little touch-up, I could immediately paint it for display. It was nothing like the ‘rough industrial feel’ I imagined. The learning curve was very gentle.”

For personal creators, this low barrier to entry is crucial. “Without such easy-to-use filament and an existing library of models, learning 3D modeling from scratch and mastering complicated 3D printing techniques would be nearly impossible,” David added. “Now, I can pick a favorite character on the weekend, start 3D Printing in the evening, and have a finished piece by the next day. If I’m not happy with the size or details, I just adjust the parameters and reprint. The cost is very low.”

Liam also shared a comparison: “For a beginner, 3D printing a 15 cm-tall figurine model could cost several hundred or even over a thousand yuan if outsourced or bought as a finished product. But now, a box of Standard PLA filament that costs just tens of yuan is enough to print several figurines. You can choose your own colors and even assemble the parts using different colors. It’s all part of the fun of creating.”

For personal hobbyists, the printed creations are not just the result of their passion but also serve as something to share socially and decorate their living spaces. Liam believes, “Our vision is to make 3D Print as simple and widespread as taking photos and posting them on social media. Reliable, colorful 3D printing filament is key to helping everyone feel a sense of accomplishment and continue creating.”

They all agree that Standard PLA filament for 3d printing has high compatibility allows it to work reliably on most FDM printers, and its “wide range of color choices” meets the color demands of figurine creation without the need for complicated post-print painting. David specifically mentioned, “It supports high-speed 3D Print, which means I don’t have to wait for long. The high hardness also makes the printed weapons and small parts sturdy enough, so I don’t have to worry about them breaking easily when I handle them.”

The Future of Personal Creation

Liam believes that now is the best time for individuals to embrace 3D creation. “The technological barriers are rapidly disappearing. You don’t need to be an engineer or an artist, just someone with a love for creating. There are countless beautiful models, free or paid, available, and filament like Standard PLA ensures execution is possible. We’re witnessing the flourishing of a community where ‘everyone is a creator’.”

By designing complex character models as easy-to-print modules and leveraging the filament’s biodegradable properties (environmentally friendly and safe) and excellent thermal bonding characteristics (which make layers adhere firmly), even beginners can gradually take on more complex 3D Printing projects. This transformation from “consumer” to “creator” marks a huge leap in personal manufacturing and personalized consumption.

When asked about advice for other aspiring beginners, David sincerely shared, “My advice is simple—don’t overthink it. Start with a box of Standard PLA filament. When you successfully 3D print your first personal piece, the joy is indescribable. To take a character from the screen and bring it to life on your desk in just one day—it’s incredibly cool. You’ll realize that the possibilities for creation are endless, and it completely changes the way you approach your hobbies.”