Why resin printing isn't so scary

Resin printing is a phenomenal technology, and us kiwis don’t utilize it enough. Why? I’m not sure, there’s certainly a lot of anxiety that goes around when it comes to the potential for mess and safety concerns however despite the horror stories, a few key steps to set up a workspace and using your brain all but completely nullify any potential risks.

For the added effort though, what are you getting out of it? Absolutely unmatched detail and accuracy that’s what. For wargaming miniatures, dioramas, figurines, sculptures, precision components and parts demanding perfect optical clarity, nothing else comes even remotely close. And while the hobby may still be a bit niche here in New Zealand, overseas the community built around this medium is vibrant, creative and abundant with tons of incredible creators making amazing stuff for you to print and enhance your hobbies (and maybe save some money along the way!) 

The GK3 Pro: Designed for Real People

With all that in mind, the best way to get the most out of resin printing is a machine that doesn’t fight you every step of the way. And that’s where i’d like to introduce you to the GK3 Pro from Uniformation,  a machine that genuinely feels like someone who actually prints designed it. This is not just another entrant into the spec sheet contest.

It’s got all the features you’d want and expect out of a resin printer in todays market, a 16k high transmittance mono LCD, 385nm light source for improved clear resin performance, a heated vat, ball screw and linear rails, Wi-Fi for sending off prints and a camera for print monitoring.
But it doesn’t hit performance targets and then calls it a day, what actually makes the GK3 Pro worthy of your consideration if the aggressively user focussed design that puts it ahead of the pack.

USB and power button? On the front, where they belong. Which sounds like it shouldn’t even be a selling point but you wouldn’t believe how many resin printers have crossed my desk that can’t even get this right.
Adjustable feet for getting the whole machine level as well as a bubble level to dial it in without extra tools. A flip top lid that holds its position at any angle, because nobody has ever liked those bucket lids and it’s got a silicone gasket keep the smells contained.

Tweakable Hardware, Smart Touches

But it doesn’t stop there, by far the GK3’s weirdest feature is a tilting screen allowing you to comfortably interact with the machine without hunching over. If you’re over 6ft like myself you’re gonna very quickly appreciate this.
By far my favourite feature though is the use of quick release latches absolutely everywhere, not a resin caked bolt or screw in sight.
The build plate looks a little unconventional too, but for good resin. It’s thiccc with 3 c’s to keep the resin away from the areas you’ll be touching it and even has a gutter around the edge to prevent drips. 

When you have a build plate full of models, hang it from the built-in hook to let resin drain back into the VAT. Rounding things out is a massive carbon filter that actually works. It is magnetic for easy swapping, and you can even 3D print your own duct adapter with an included file if you want to vent outdoors.

On the motion side, a beefy ball screw keeps backlash low and repeatability high. It comes stock with ACF release film (Uniformation calls it CPFA), which they claim lasts longer with the machine’s 385 nm UV light. Prints look textured on big flat areas, although you can swap for regular PFA if this bothers you.

The Secret Sauce: 385nm Light

Here is why that unusual 385 nm light matters. Compared to the standard 405 nm, it offers higher energy that’s more focused. You get cleaner clear prints with sharper detail. Less bloating means you can consider pigment-free resins that are less brittle. For miniature fans, this is huge. The high-transmittance LCD results in shorter exposures and extends screen life. In practice, prints take about 25 percent less curing time compared to other 16K models.

No Resin Lock-In, Kind Ecosystem

Worried about getting locked in? Don’t be. The GK3 Pro’s auto-feeding system uses pressurized cartridges, but you have the option to buy empties and fill them with any resin you like. It’s flexible, not tied to a single brand. The printer can purge the lines between bottles easily, so swapping resins is simple.

Heating matters for resin, and Uniformation solved it with an under-LCD heater. It only warms up the resin actually being printed. This process is fast and focused. Once the resin reaches temperature, the curing reaction keeps everything warm and the heater switches off. Efficient and smart.

Wash and Cure Stations That Deliver

Uniformation’s wash station is, honestly, a highlight. It feels premium. The heavy metal case, simple timer controls, and handy drain all add to the experience. The lid seals tightly to keep solvents in. You can use the basket for loose parts or slot in the build plate directly to minimize air exposure. Ultrasonic cleaning is aggressive, so post-processing stays quick. Most fumes come from cleaning, not printing, so anything that shortens these times is a win.

The cure station is more than a typical UV box. It is filtered and matches the magnetic filter style found on the printer. The control panel lets you set both cure and dry times. Heated drying means prints go straight from wash to cure to finish, almost hands-off.

Who Is This For?

Uniformation has built an ecosystem for serious makers: war gamers, engineers, artists, or even the casual hobbyist who just wants better results. It is not just about flashy numbers. This system makes resin printing easier, faster, and less messy. If you’re curious, check out some sample prints. They speak for themselves.

Resin printing may seem daunting, but with the GK3 Pro, the process becomes enjoyable. Sometimes, it’s the soft factors that turn a good tool into a favourite.

Ready to dive in? Contact us, join the Discord, or check out the links below for our full range. If you’re gearing up for resin for the first time, explore our safety guide before you start to get the most out of your experience. The right setup transforms a challenge into something fun.

 

Posted by Dominic(MindKits)