2026-03-16 23:12
This thread is for showing off your Dragon Ball 3D prints, sharing tips, and helping newcomers get started. Post your work!
I'll kick it off with what I've learned after printing dozens of DB models:
<strong>Best Resources for STL Files:</strong>
- Cults3D has 3,800-8,000 Dragon Ball models (both free and premium)
- Supported formats: STL, OBJ, STEP, 3MF, SCAD
- Look for pre-supported models to save yourself hours of support placement
<strong>What Prints Well:</strong>
- Character busts (Goku, Vegeta, Gogeta, Piccolo) — these look incredible on resin printers
- Shenron sculptures — the dragon wrapping around a base is a showstopper
- 4-star Dragon Ball replicas — simple but everyone wants one on their desk
- Transformation forms (SSJ hair is surprisingly printable with good supports)
<strong>Printing Tips:</strong>
- Resin (SLA/DLP) is king for detailed busts — FDM works but you'll spend time sanding
- High-detail prints: 25-50mm scale for desk display
- Tabletop-ready: 75-100mm scale for shelf pieces
- Always print SSJ hair with supports and print the hair separately if possible
<strong>Budget Alternative to Expensive Figures:</strong>
A $200 resin printer + $30 in resin can produce figures that rival $60-100 Banpresto or S.H. Figuarts pieces. The catch is time and painting skill, but that's part of the fun.
Drop your prints below! Include your printer, resin/filament, and any post-processing you did. Let's build a gallery.