My work process is mostly identical. First I look for reference material, such as images or low poly 3D models which I extract directly from the game’s files. However these files aren’t usable for the printing process, which is why I create my models completely from scratch, giving me further control over each detail.

Afterwards I open the exported STL files with Cura, Ultimaker’s built-in slicing software. There I can pre-visualize how each layer of the model will be printed, which highlights problematic areas, which I then have to modify back in my 3D software. However a lot of details show up only after holding a test print in my hands.

Following this it’s back again to the 3D program for further model optimization: Enhancing certain details or getting rid of problematic parts unnecessary to the overall design. It’s a loop of rapid-prototyping the design and improving it accordingly until I receive a finished miniature.