Making Custom Pop-Style Figurines from Just a Photo

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I’m not into Pop figures. I don’t collect them, and I’ve never had the urge to line a shelf with big-headed vinyl versions of anything. But I was curious whether I could make a workflow that turns a photo into a stylised 3D model, ready for printing.

So I gave it a go. I can now make custom Pop-style figure designs, based entirely on a single photo, and then generate a print file to be printed on my own printer or at the nearest local 3D print shop. 

I’ve even designed the full boxed look. I also design packaging layouts separately. Print shops can handle the print and cut, and with a little plastic window added, it’s easy to have something that looks shelf-ready.

Pop figures are all about the outfit, hairstyle, and sometimes what the character is holding. So I tried photos that show the full look, not just a headshot. Even make the figure hold something specific (a guitar, camera, lightsaber, etc.).

 

 

 

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About the Author
Justin Wiggins

A professional web design wizard based in Magalieskruin, Pretoria, South Africa. With a passion for graphic design and a knack for creating engaging websites. Over the years he has acquired a unique set of skills from various fields including networking, programming, and marketing. Justin’s love for magic tricks and creating moments of wonder has influenced his approach to design, always aiming to ‘wow’ his clients with stunning and effective websites and graphic design projects.