3D Printing Methods
We use two different 3D printing technologies to manufacture our kits. Find out more about the methods used here and decide which technique is right for you.
FDM (PLA) Method
Fused Deposition Modelling
Overview
When used for scale model kits, FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) enables us to produce your model kit by printing individual components layer-by-layer. The parts are typically designed to be assembled, sanded, glued, and painted, much like a traditional injection-moulded kit.
FDM is an additive manufacturing process where a PLA (Polylactic Acid) thermoplastic filament is melted and extruded through a heated nozzle, depositing material layer by layer to build a 3D object. The printer moves in X–Y to draw each layer with molten filament; the Z-axis steps up after each layer. The printer also prints complex sacrificial support structures to prevent overhangs from collapsing.
Key Benefits
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Low cost – Our FDM kits are typically 30-40% cheaper than an equivalent resin-printed kit.
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On-demand production – Kits can be produced in very small batches or made-to-order.
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Durable parts – FDM materials are tougher and less brittle than resin prints, ideal for handling and assembly.
Retro Replica FDM Printing
We use state-of-the-art commercial grade FDM printers to create our FDM models. Each part is printed with the smallest possible layer thickness (0.1mm) and carefully designed to ensure support scars are hidden from view. Before packing and shipping a kit, all parts are hand finished by removing the support structures and sanding back the surfaces.
Although printed with the highest level of quality, a certain amount of surface roughness is still inevitable. To get the highest possible finish to your FDM model, we recommend post-processing of the parts and assemblies before painting. Just like building a real Lambretta in your workshop, careful prep work is required to get the smoothest paint finish. Paint does not hide any flaws, so you should remove all traces of print support material and surface blemishes, then sand and primer.
MSLA Resin Printing
Masked Stereolithography Apparatus
Overview
MSLA (Masked Stereolithography Apparatus) is a resin-based 3D printing process that uses a high-resolution LCD screen to selectively expose liquid photopolymer resin to UV light, curing an entire layer at once. For scale model kits, MSLA is preferred for its ability to reproduce very fine surface detail, closely matching or exceeding traditional injection-moulded quality.
The parts are created on a build plate, submerged in a vat of liquid resin, that lifts incrementally as each resin layer is cured by UV light passing through the LCD mask. After printing, the printed parts are washed to remove uncured resin, then post-cured under UV light for full strength.
Key Benefits
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Exceptional surface detail – Crisp panel lines, sharp edges, and fine textures ideal for scale kits.
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Smooth surface finish – Much smaller layer thickness and far less visible layering than FDM, reducing prep work.
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High dimensional accuracy – Consistent part fit across kits.
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Complex geometry – Thin walls, undercuts, and intricate shapes can be printed cleanly.
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Professional presentation – Parts closely resemble high-quality injection-moulded or cast resin components.
Retro Replica MSLA Printing
We have invested heavily in the very best MSLA printers and post processing facilities. Every part has undergone an extensive prototyping process to optimise the printing setup, quality of finish and fit. Some parts in our kits are printed to the resolution of 0.024mm layers giving superb levels of detail.
The resins themselves have been formulated specifically for our kits. In fact, different resin recipes are used on the parts dependent on the application. We have worked hard to provide the right balance between surface finish and strength.
Comparison Between Methods
