How I Got Started With Resin 3D Printing: Lessons, Wins, and What I Wish I Knew

[Jain Gray]

If you're anything like me, you've probably stared at incredible miniature models, ultra-detailed prototypes, or sleek custom tools and wondered, "How do people make these things?" That curiosity is what led me down the rabbit hole of 3D printing. More specifically, I found myself obsessed with resin printing—and for good reason. A 3d resin printer offers detail and precision that’s hard to match with filament-based printers. But let me tell you—it’s a journey.

This article is for anyone thinking of getting into resin 3D printing or just starting out. I’ll walk you through what I’ve learned, what I wish I knew earlier, and why it’s been one of the most satisfying hobbies (and side hustles) I’ve picked up in years.

Why Resin Printing?

Let’s start with the "why." Compared to FDM (fused deposition modeling) printers that melt plastic filament layer by layer, resin printers use UV light to cure liquid resin one layer at a time. This means prints come out with stunning detail—perfect for miniatures, dental models, jewelry prototypes, and other high-precision items.

Here’s what stood out to me as a beginner:

• Smooth surface finish: Less post-processing work.

• High level of detail: Even the smallest text or textures come out sharp.

• Quieter operation: No motor grinding like with FDM printers.

Of course, there’s a learning curve. But once you understand the basics, it’s hard to go back.

Choosing My First Resin Printer

When I started researching which 3D printer to buy, I quickly realized the market is packed. Some models looked affordable, others boasted pro-grade features. I had to ask myself: What do I actually want to make?

For me, it was custom board game pieces and some cosplay accessories. That meant I didn’t need industrial-scale build volume, but I did want reliable precision.

Things I looked for:

• Print resolution: Measured in microns; lower is better for detail.

• Build volume: How big your final prints can be.

• Ease of use: Touchscreen controls, auto-leveling, and software support.

• Resin compatibility: Not all printers support third-party resins.

I ended up going with a mid-range printer that had excellent community reviews and a decent print bed size. It wasn’t the cheapest, but it’s been rock-solid for over a year now.

Getting Set Up: The Not-So-Glamorous Side

Here’s where I think most beginner guides sugar-coat things: resin printing can be messy.

You’ll need:

• Isopropyl alcohol (90% or higher) for cleaning prints.

• Nitrile gloves (not optional—you do not want resin on your skin).

• A well-ventilated space, or better yet, a dedicated workspace with a fume extractor.

• Post-processing tools like a UV curing station or at least a UV lamp and turntable.

The first few times I printed, it was like setting up a science experiment in my garage. But once you get your workflow down, it becomes second nature.

One tip? Lay out everything you need before you pour resin. There's nothing worse than realizing you forgot gloves while mid-pour.

My First Successful Prints (And a Few Fails)

Let me be real: your first few prints may not turn out perfect. Mine didn’t. I had failed supports, warped bases, and even one instance where the resin half-cured inside the vat (don’t ask).

But those mistakes taught me a lot:

• Support placement matters—use auto-supports as a starting point, but tweak them manually.

• Keep your FEP film clean—dust or cured resin bits can ruin a print.

• Leveling is everything—even if your printer claims “auto-leveling,” double-check it.

After a few practice runs, I managed a flawless 32mm DnD miniature. Seeing that level of detail made every frustrating print before it worth it.

The Cost Breakdown: Is It Worth It?

Let’s talk money. Here’s a rough idea of what you might spend upfront:

• Printer: $200–$600 for a solid mid-range model.

• Resin: $30–$60 per liter.

• Accessories: $100 for gloves, cleaner, curing station, etc.

I probably spent around $500–$600 total at the beginning, including materials. That sounds like a lot, but when you realize you can print dozens of miniatures, custom phone stands, intricate cosplay props, and more—things that would cost $20–$50 each online—it starts to feel like a smart investment.

And if you get good? You can start selling your prints on Etsy or even take on commission work.

What I Wish I Knew Before Starting

Looking back, there are a few things I wish someone had told me:

1. Don’t cheap out on resin. Quality matters. Low-grade resins can be brittle or smell horrible.

2. Read user reviews. Look for long-term impressions, not just unboxings.

3. Get a wash-and-cure station. It saves so much time and hassle.

4. You don’t need to print everything. Focus on meaningful projects, not just testing for fun (unless fun is the goal!).

Most importantly, expect to fail at first—and don’t let that discourage you. The learning curve is real, but it flattens fast.

Final Thoughts: Should You Get a 3D Resin Printer?

If you're even considering getting into resin 3D printing, I’d say go for it. Just be prepared: it’s a mix of creativity, science, and a bit of trial and error. But once you nail your first detailed print, it’s incredibly rewarding.

A 3d resin printer opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re a hobbyist, maker, entrepreneur, or just curious, it’s a tool that delivers serious value—both in terms of quality and personal satisfaction.