A neat feature in Animal Crossing: New Horizons is the ability to make fish and bug models when C.J. the beaver and Flick the chameleon visit a player's island. Yet those who've requested a few models from both visitors may have noticed that the fish collectibles are quite underwhelming, especially in comparison to the insect ones. Here are some fish miniatures made with 3D printing and fine painting skills for ACNH fans!
Solution
Step 1: 3D modeling based on the game’s fish guide and screenshots with ZBrush. Hollow a socket below the fishes for the assembling of PMMA sticks.
Step 2: Add supporting structures, feed the STL files into the slicer software, and arrange the placement.
Step 3: 3D print the miniatures using DLP Ultra Detail Resin with layer height of 0.05mm.
Step 4: Post-process the prints by washing them with IPA, post-curing with UV, cutting off the supports, and air-drying. Then polish them and paint the fishes using airbrushes and brushes by hand.
Step 5: Assemble the fishes and wood bases together with PMMA sticks, and stick the golden painted leaves onto the blocks.