With a bit of luck, 3D printing is one way that can help designers fulfill their craziest and funniest ideas. This technology brings imaginations to physical reality.
And right now, Hollywood has also taken note of it. Theatres and movies are eagerly using 3D printed props, why is that?
November 7, 2025
Prop makers, digital effects specialists, and costume designers are responsible for a lot of action and spectacle on stage or set. A new synergy has emerged between practice and technology. Practical skills and digital effects now work hand in hand to create a unique experience in great detail.
Thanks to 3D printing, 3D modeled props can be used easily and reliably where necessary. In addition, it saves costs, time and resources.
A model can be printed as much as necessary. The quality can be adjusted to meet a deadline or budget. The options range from razor-sharp replicas of jewelry in close-ups to lower-quality models made for a scenic background.
3D printed models can then be further processed with a variety of paints and adhesives. This makes it possible to give each model more details and texture.
Sometimes a 3D printed object is just an intermediate step; after printing, a silicone mold is formed around the print. It can then be filled with rubber or epoxy.
With FDM printing, only the outside of the model is fully printed. The volume is printed with an input of 20% to 80%. This saves a lot of kilos, which in turn is very interesting for costume design.
The diversity of 3D printing offers many beginning filmmakers the opportunity to use realistic props of a caliber that was previously only possible in Hollywood.
Experienced specialists can also call on 3D printing companies to order specific props to create beautiful and realistic scenes.
Discover the possibilities of local production combined with new technology.
