Gallery

About Project

This fox statue was produced through a hybrid process that combined resin 3D printing, electrolytic copper plating, and a controlled aging treatment. The original resin print captured the character’s low-poly geometry and expressive pose, providing a precise base for later surface transformation. After printing, the part was prepared and plated with real copper, forming a continuous metallic skin rather than a simple paint layer.

Once plated, the surface underwent an aging treatment to introduce tonal variation and subtle oxidation. This step softened the uniformity of the copper and gave the statue a more sculptural, time-worn appearance. In hand, the surface feels cool and metallic, closely resembling a traditional copper sculpture. Despite this tactile realism, the piece remains significantly lighter than a solid metal statue, making it easier to handle, ship, and display.

At a normal viewing distance, the illusion of cast metal is convincing. The faceted planes reflect light in a way that emphasizes the design, while the aged copper finish adds depth and visual weight. Close inspection reveals traces of the underlying additive process, such as support marks and mounting holes on the feet, which are characteristic of plated resin workflows. These details reflect the balance between manufacturability and surface refinement in complex, multi-step fabrication.

This project demonstrates how advanced post-processing can dramatically change the perception of a 3D printed object. By combining additive manufacturing with metal finishing techniques, it is possible to achieve the look and feel of real metal without the cost, mass, or constraints of traditional casting.

FacFox supports projects like this by offering a wide range of 3D printing technologies and professional post-processing options, including resin printing, surface finishing, and metal plating workflows. Whether the goal is visual realism, reduced weight, or small-batch production, FacFox helps turn digital designs into refined physical objects ready for display or presentation.

Solution

• Step 1: The 3D model of the fox statue and its accessories was prepared, and orientation and support structures were generated for resin printing.
• Step 2: The parts were resin 3D printed, and the prints were removed from the build platform after completion.
• Step 3: Excess resin was washed off, and the parts were post-cured to achieve full material strength and stability.
• Step 4: Support structures were removed, and the support contact areas were trimmed and sanded to reduce visible marks.
• Step 5: The surfaces were further cleaned and prepped to ensure good conductivity and adhesion for metal plating.
• Step 6: A conductive layer was applied where needed, and electrical contact points were established for electroplating.
• Step 7: Electrolytic copper plating was performed until a continuous copper shell was built up across the visible surfaces.
• Step 8: The plated surfaces were rinsed and dried, and the copper layer was lightly refined to balance highlights and texture.
• Step 9: An aging treatment was applied, and the finish was adjusted to create natural-looking tonal variation and patina.