---
title: "Form 4 review: the definitive resin 3D printing experience on your desktop"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/form-4-review-the-definitive-resin-3d-printing-experience-on-your-desktop/
date: 2025-05-23
modified: 2025-05-23
lang: en
author: "Davide Sher"
description: "Few companies in the world of 3D printing have been able to continue to grow and evolve their technology as Formlabs. Unlike many market leaders in the filament extrusion segment,..."
categories:
  - "3D Printer Hardware"
  - "Decision Makers"
  - "VoxelMatters Reviews"
tags:
  - "Featured"
image: https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form-4-review-640x480.jpg
word_count: 4198
---

# Form 4 review: the definitive resin 3D printing experience on your desktop

Few companies in the world of 3D printing have been able to continue to grow and evolve their technology as [Formlabs](https://www.voxelmatters.directory/company/formlabs/). Unlike many market leaders in the filament extrusion segment, its products have continued to improve, and the latest generation of 3D printers is the most convincing so far. When the company launched it, it reported it had sold over 130,000 systems over the past decade. After extensively testing it for VoxelMatters' Form 4 review over the past three months, I am even more convinced that the next 130,000 will come much quicker. The machine and its complementary systems for washing and curing make resin 3D printing fun, taking away the hassle of dealing with photopolymerizable resins so that one can enjoy the benefits of ultra-fast, ultra-precise and highly versatile stereolithography. In other words, it makes you want to 3D print all the time.

Today, there are only a few cases where buying anything other than a Formlabs 3D printer makes sense if you need to print high-resolution parts. High-end industrial systems make sense for extra-large build sizes (up to one cubic meter and beyond). Machines like those from Carbon and Axtra 3D make sense for extremely high-throughput on viscous materials, even though, from an outright viscosity perspective, the team at Formlabs stressed that the Rigid 10K and Silicone 40A are more viscous than anything in Carbon's portfolio and can be processed proficiently due to the systems' direct resin heating combined with active mixing (but this is for the next review). At the same time, competitors like HeyGears can reach their target audience in the below $1,000 segments, which Formlabs has never really targeted, preferring to focus on professional and entry-level industrial users.

This Form 4 review was inspired by [an independent study that found the Form 4 had a 98.7% print success rate](https://www.voxelmatters.com/independent-test-shows-99-print-success-rate-for-form-4/)—a figure I can now personally vouch for (even closer to 100% for me). This reliability makes it an ideal candidate to compete in some industrial production settings, for example, with multiple Form 4 3D printers used to address production demands, at an overall much lower cost than a single large machine. With that said, having a Form 4 at home opens infinite possibilities and makes you want to 3D print nonstop. New possibilities in terms of 3D model shops and apps that enable the rapid creation of 3D printable files from photos, and even written prompts, make it even easier to find uses for a 3D printer. The Form 4 is ideal for hundreds of prosumers and professional applications. While filament machines do offer some advantages in terms of durable material choice, if you take away the hassle of handling the resins – which the Form 4 does extremely well – stereolithography 3D printing is superior for many applications that require precision, like many prototype, models, tools and mechanical end-use parts that are printed at home or in studios, offices, laboratories, shops and factories.

I got to test and review the full Form 4 solution for three months, and it has been an incredibly fulfilling experience that made me fall in love with 3D printing again. I now understand why, when I said I’d be testing this machine, many people in the industry who use and/or resell them told me I’d be in for a great time. Resellers may naturally show enthusiasm about their products, but I rarely saw so much passion for a 3D printer.

For starters, I tested Grey V5 Resin and Clear Resin V5 materials. I’ve been printing so much that I don’t even know where to start, so I’ll start from the beginning.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5625-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5625-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5630-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5630-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5626-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5626-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5631-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5631-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5637-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5637-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5644-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5644-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5654-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5654.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5656-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5656.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5622-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5622.jpg)

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5647-rotated.jpg)Everything comes neatly stored in high-quality, almost Apple-like, packaging, which is a significant bonus when you get several large and medium-sized cardboard boxes

## Unpacking

I received a Form 4 Complete Package from Formlabs, valued at $5,600. It includes:

- **1 x Form 4 3D printer - $3,499**

**Build Platform Flex**
- **Finish Kit**

- **1 x Form Wash 2nd Generation - $699**

**1 x Solvent Pump**

- **1 x Form Cure – (about $700)**
- **1 x Year Pro Service Plan**

Also included were **6 x 1-liter cartridges of resin** (3 Grey and 3 Clear) – total value $474 ($79 x 6)

The Formlabs experience begins when you get the boxes. Everything comes neatly stored in high-quality, almost Apple-like, packaging, which is a significant bonus when you get several large and medium-sized cardboard boxes. Like the Flex Plate and the Resin Mixer, every resin cartridge and finishing box has its own packaging. The printer has a soft cover and a custom-fitted plastic tray protecting the printing plane—everything clips in. The Flex Plate fits onto the printing platform; the Tank clips in place onto the light source, and the Resin Mixer latches to the resin tank, quickly remixing resin into a homogenous liquid, with near-zero impact on print times. This helps ensure excellent print quality and accuracy for any-sized parts, printed anywhere on the build platform. The resin mixer is removable and easily reused across resin tanks containing the same material. Therefore, only one resin tank mixer is needed for each material printed on Form 4, reducing waste.

The resin handling system automatically dispenses the resin into the printer. According to Formlabs, the redesigned valve has a higher flow rate, resulting in 5-10 times faster filling than Form 3, depending on the viscosity of the material. Form 4 resin cartridges still contain 1 liter of resin, but with 63% less plastic and a 30% smaller footprint than Form 3 cartridges, for less waste and more efficient storage. Once installed in the printer, a cartridge load cell weighs how much resin is in the cartridge, offering a clear picture of how much resin remains, so it’s easy to plan.

All you have to do is pop the top open so the material can flow easily into the vat. A Resin Level Sensor measures the exact amount of resin in the Resin Tank and controls the automated resin dispensing system, ensuring consistent resin levels and print performance.

Furthermore, suppose you are using the Form 4 for business. In that case, you’ll appreciate that every resin tank includes a reusable lid and stackable design, making it easy to stack tanks and store resin outside the machine. Switching materials with a separate tank for each resin color or type is as easy as sliding in a new tank.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5663-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5663.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5665-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5665.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5672-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5672.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5673-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5673.jpg)

## First print

The touchscreen automatically walks you through leveling (with the provided tool) when the Form 4 is plugged in and turned on. Altogether, it took less than 5 minutes to set up the printer, plus a few more to download and set up (and get acquainted with) the PreForm software, connect the Form 4 to the Wi-Fi network and link it up in the software to upload the print files after slicing. I especially liked how easy it was to select the printer (and manage multiple printers) and the material.

The PreForm software makes it intuitive and easy to go from zero to starting a test and printing. I won’t go into all the details, but the main things you’ll have to select are part size, orientation, supports, layout (for multiple parts), cavities (and holes). You can also apply surface textures and labels.

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/software-core-section-1.webp)

To begin with, I used a little two-part Dragon Egg to check the dimensional accuracy of the clip-on halves. After I confirmed that it came out fine, even at 100-micron resolution (the Form 4 can also do 50 and 25 micron), I jumped right into one of the most demanding prints I’ve ever done on a stereolithographic system.

Before doing that, I set up the Form Cure and Form Wash, which took even less time. The most time-consuming part was ordering and receiving the IPA for the Form Wash. It takes about $50 of IPA (10 liters) to fill it comfortably. But we’ll get to these important elements of the Formlabs workflow later.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5714-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5714.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5717-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5717.jpg)

## A new way of printing

Before printing, a few words about the technology behind the new Form 4 need to be said. It fundamentally differs from previous systems, making it faster and more reliable. Unlike the Form 3, which used LFS (Low Force Stereolithography), it uses an LFD print engine, which stands for Low Force Display. That’s because the Form 4 is powered by a Masked Stereolithography (MSLA) process based on an LCD/LED Backlight Unit instead of SLA.

We won’t get into the specific technical details of the Backlight Unit (you can find them [here](https://formlabs.com/blog/technology-behind-form-4/?srsltid=AfmBOornO-_CIQqo503pe7GldosxaulwDlUrqljDvZvuny9XdZKzfA0m)). However, some interesting new developments have made the machine more durable and reliable. One is the Light Processing Unit of the Form 4 (LPU 4), which is longer-lasting than traditional LCD systems and is expected to deliver 600,000 to 1,900,000 layers of consistent print performance before replacement.

https://youtu.be/ch1T15LZeIU

The new Release Texture and redesigned Flexible Film Resin Tank help reduce peel forces. The Release Texture is an optical film introducing airflow to prevent the resin tank from suctioning to the LPU. The Flexible Film Resin Tank holds resin inside the printer and provides a surface for liquid resin to cure against. Speed is also accelerated by the conduction resin heaters and an infrared temperature sensor, enabling faster heating times and minimal time to start a print. The heater and infrared sensor precisely control resin temperature and unlock higher-viscosity materials.

## A very “Expansive” print

I extensively tested the Form 4 with the Grey V5 modeling resin. It is a versatile general-purpose resin that offers an optimal balance of fast print speed, high accuracy, presentation-ready appearance, strong mechanical properties, and an easy, reliable workflow. The parts come out stiff and strong, with a surface finish that easily rivals injection molding. In the Form 4 Series, it can print three times faster than the previous version while offering improved mechanical properties.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5733-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5733.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5738-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5738-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/PreForm_Form4_review_-2025-03-17-alle-12.47.04-640x396.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/PreForm_Form4_review_-2025-03-17-alle-12.47.04-scaled-e1747494236219.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5721-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5721.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5726-rotated-e1747494139507-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5726-rotated-e1747494139507.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5728-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5728.jpg)

Overall, I went through over a liter and a half of material in a couple of weeks. I immediately felt confident with the machine’s workflow so the first print I tried was one of the most demanding I have ever done. I’d wanted to print models from the Gambody marketplace for some time. One of my favorites is [the Rocinante spaceship from the Expanse TV and book series](https://www.gambody.com/premium/rocinante-expanse?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20930702134&gbraid=0AAAAADGBQkL1ecsfsjuu8Z2fDsiBLIVLG&gclid=Cj0KCQjwoZbBBhDCARIsAOqMEZUHVzQXFteQYx8xRz2Sn4zZSvAoFCVIl847IUYJzcOYYQoAY5Ct-XkaAsVlEALw_wcB). The Gambody models don’t come cheap (but you can find discount codes online); they run $25-40 and more, but they are perfectly curated and guaranteed to be printable. So, defects in the print can usually be attributed to the printer rather than the model. In addition, the stereolithography-optimized Rocinante model, like most famous spaceship models, comes in several separate parts that must be assembled. This allowed me to fill out the Build Space for Form 4. And I did.

As it was my first time using the Form 4 (or any Formlabs system), I selected the “1-click” option. This sets up an optimized print plate, inclines each model, and adds supports and a base. It is very convenient, but after completing the first tray with some minor defects in the prints, I felt confident enough to do my own supports and chose the inclination angles. I opted for a smaller base, 50% fewer supports and 20% smaller connection points of the supports for easier removal. If you do your supports, the system helps you by indicating the presence of concave sections that may hinder the print (but usually don’t). In this case, you can add a “hole” to let the uncured resin flow out. This time, all the large and small parts came out perfectly. It took three full trays of parts, plus several more prints for smaller parts, to get all the pieces. At 100 microns, it took just a few hours (across a few days) to get it all done, and it was great to start a new tray as the previously printed parts were getting washed and cured. While printing, it was almost non-stop, without a single failed print. The Rocinante model game gave me an ideal opportunity to print large, dense parts, to check for possible deformation, and extremely small and precise parts to check for accuracy. Both worked out just fine.

![Explore the Form 4 review to discover how this 3D printer elevates resin printing with speed and precision.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5748.jpg)The Roci, one of the most demanding printI have ever done in terms of large number of dense parts and small ultra-precise parts. It was my second ever print on the Form 4.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5749-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5749.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5750-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5750.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5751-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5751.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5752-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5752.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5753-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5753.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5754-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5754.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5755-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5755.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5760-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5760.jpg)

I have to say that besides the speed, accuracy, stability, reliability and relative quiet operation of the Form 4 3D printer, it’s the post-processing that makes printing with the Form 4 a smooth and fun experience. First, the Build Platform Flex tray makes it super easy to remove parts from the build plate (even though it took me a bit to figure out how it worked). It features Quick Release Technology, allowing you to quickly and easily remove parts without tools in seconds. This eliminates the risk of damaging a part and further streamlines the workflow. It is built with a stainless-steel print surface ensuring robust, long-term durability. Perhaps most impressive is that almost no resin residue is anywhere after three months of printing in my office.

Second, placing the parts in the Form Wash is easy. The best part is that you don’t have to stay around to take them out since the tray automatically raises to take them out of the IPA. Finally, the Form Cure may be slower than the new one just released, but unless you are doing serial production, it’s just fine. It is particularly nice that you can select the exact type of material to cure and place the model inside.

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5634-rotated.jpg)The Form Cure may be slower than the new one just released, but unless you are doing serial production, it’s just fine

## Keeping track

The Form 4 features an updated UI and a seven-inch touchscreen. This makes managing queues easier for users like me, but it is also useful for diagnostics. I ran into only one issue, which was my fault: when starting a new print, the system told me the platform wasn’t clear after running the Resin Mixer. This could be due to residue on the platform itself or to something stuck to the tank’s film. After checking that the platform was clear, the system guided me through the procedure to print a cleaning layer. Which I did easily, and then proceeded to remove it. I fully cleaned the tank since the system said something was in the way. Eventually, I realized that I hadn’t properly placed the Flex Plate onto the Print Head, and all I had to do was adjust it. A lot of hassle just due to a lack of attention, but at least I got to run through one of the troubleshooting programs. On-screen information includes maintenance reminders and diagnostic tools to keep the printer running smoothly. In the event of an issue, error messages display QR codes that lead to support articles to get you back up and running as quickly as possible.

![Explore the Form 4 review to discover how this 3D printer elevates resin printing with speed and precision.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5741.jpg)

Generally, on-screen preventative maintenance reminders, print status information, and printer readiness information make printing easier and more intuitive. After five minutes, a time-out screen displays the name, resin, and printer readiness in larger letters. If a printer is ready, you can send the file from your computer, even if you are away from the printer, and Form 4 will start printing automatically.

A camera inside the build chamber can take a photo or timelapse video of each completed print and upload it into Dashboard, Formlabs’ printer management software, where print status can be viewed from anywhere. This feature makes remote print monitoring and print history traceability easier than ever. For users wishing to opt out of this feature, the camera can easily be turned off, covered, or removed.

## Getting down to business

Since the Form 4 workflow is virtually hassle-free, it makes you want to print nonstop. Due to my limited 3D design skills, it was always difficult to find cool parts in the past. Now, between the Thangs marketplace (and connected 3D model marketplaces such as Thingiverse and Printables) and new AI-driven 3D modeling apps like Backflip, Tripo3D and the Makerlab 2D to 3D, obtaining original 3D models is a lot easier than it used to be.

Within a few weeks after getting my Form 4, I identified several potential businesses I could enter. With help from artificial intelligence for image creation via ChatGPT, and some more help from Backflip AI and Tripo 3D, [I created a 3D model shop on Thangs3D](https://thangs.com/designer/davidesher), where I could sell printable figures inspired by the Hyperion novels (and a few other imaginary creatures). I played around with both drawings I found on the web and ChatGPT's visualizations of the novel's characters.

![Explore the Form 4 review to discover how this 3D printer elevates resin printing with speed and precision.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5822.jpg)The Hyperion pilgrims and a few Shrike versions in the background (and below). If you haven't read the Hyperion quadrilogy, I recommend you do so now.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5831-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5831.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5834-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5834.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5833-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5833.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5791-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5791-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5835-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5835.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5796-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5796.jpg)

Because, for some strange reason, no one has brought the Hyperion novels to the screen, either as a live-action movie, TV series or even an animated series, I had full freedom to experiment. But I also really wanted to have some tangible 3D versions of the incredibly fascinating characters that populate this, which I find to be one of the most compelling science fiction works of all time. One of the main characters (there are dozens of relevant and extremely complex characters in the Hyperion world) is the Shirke, possibly the most terrifying creature ever created in science fiction. It is a being that transcends space and time, and is entirely made of sharp and indestructible blades, whose only reason for existing is bringing pain (it does get "friendlier" throughout the books, but I don't want to spoil it). I created different versions of the Shirke and the seven pilgrims with whom the story begins.

To be clear, I did not sell any. But you should also consider that I did not specifically focus on selling them and do not have a developed creative talent. The point is that I could imagine many businesses that others, more talented than I, could pursue. I had a lot of fun learning to use AI apps and even some basic Fusion 360 to print nonstop. The ability to easily and rapidly print nonstop parts drove me to learn about all these creative possibilities.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Iris_Dog-color-e1747674015498-640x480.jpeg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Iris_Dog-color-e1747674015498.jpeg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Etta-e1747674082911-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Etta-e1747674082911.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sumo-e1747674209298-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Sumo-e1747674209298.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5969-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5969.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5968-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5968.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5846-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5846.jpg)

First, I ran into a couple of friends who own dogs. And you know how dog owners are about their pets. I suggested I take a photo of their dog and see if I could get a 3D print done. Using Backflip and Tripo3D, I got perfect 3D printable models of the dogs, from a single photo, in under 1 minute. I exported the STLs (or 3MFs, which can also include the color data) and got the 3D prints done in under 1 hour for each dog. These could be in various sizes, even very small, ultra-precise ones. One of the friends I 3D printed the dog for is in the jewelry business, and if she wanted to, she could get it cast in metal. She could not believe it.

A couple of days later, I ran into another friend, whom I used to work with in the videogame industry, whose company now makes board games. They just launched [a crowdfunding campaign for a new one, titled Detectives Vs Criminals,](https://gamefound.com/it/projects/dam-things/detectives-vs-criminals) and they have six figurines as the main characters. I suggested they make the figurines into 3D miniatures, but he said that the main hurdle was the 3D modeling costs.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/06-1-480x640.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/06-1.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5849-480x640.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5849-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5852-480x640.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_5852-rotated.jpg)

I told him I could do it in a minute and get the 3D print done in 1 hour. Even without finishing touches on the digital 3D model, the miniature came out of the 3D printer nearly perfect. This will be a major disruption in the 3D modeling job market; I only needed a digital app. However, the message would not be as powerful if I didn’t show him a 3D printed version of the miniature.

Most of these businesses are scalable since they are based on creating virtual 3D models, and no printing is strictly necessary. But printing them out makes it all a lot more real, even in the eyes of potential customers (and opens possibilities for shops like Etsy). A 3D printer that prints fast, reliably, cleanly and without any hassle is necessary to explore these opportunities and make a business.

## Seeing through the future

The Grey V5 Resin offers plenty of opportunities, and it’s pretty much all you’ll ever need for modeling projects. But I also got a few cartridges of transparent resin from Formlabs. The newest Clear Resin V5 is a color-neutral 3D printing resin formulated to offer an optimal balance of fast print speed, high accuracy, transparency, strong mechanical properties, and an easy, reliable workflow. It can create transparent, colorless parts that are stiff and strong, with a smooth surface finish that rivals acrylic. Generally, a clear 3D printed part looks more "valuable" than a grey one, so creating keychains and accessories is ideal.

![Explore the Form 4 review to discover how this 3D printer elevates resin printing with speed and precision.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6334.jpg)A replica of the Octopus statue at the Dalì Museum in Figueres. It almost looks more Dalì-esque with all the supports.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6366-480x640.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6366-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6364-480x640.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6364-rotated.jpg)

I continued playing with the 2D to 3D apps and the 3D printer, imagining more new businesses and fun activities. While on a trip to the south of France and Spain, I took photos of wild animals like pink flamingos and recreated them in 3D. Then printed them out. I took pictures of statues from the Dalì Museum in Figueres, the artist’s hometown and reproduced them. I started playing with ChatGPT to create imaginary animals and printed those.

A few days later, I was at the Stadium (I am a season pass holder) to see FC Internazionale beat FC Barcelona in what has been called "the best Champions League semi-final of all time". I later used some of the most iconic photos from the game and printed versions of the football players while scoring or celebrating a goal.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6390-480x640.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6390-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6392-480x640.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6392-rotated.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6394-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6394.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6395-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6395.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6396-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6396.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6397-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6397.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6398-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6398-rotated.jpg)

![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6380.jpg)FC Internazionale's Yann Sommer making the save of the year on FC Barcelona's Lamine Yamal, the best player in the world, during one the best Champions League games in history.

The look of a clear 3D printed model is unique. However, clear resin is particularly useful for electrical enclosures and similar precision parts. I don’t own any enclosure designs and would not know where to find them. However, I also figured that the Clear Resin V5 is ideal for clear containers, which I could have used. I discovered that there aren’t that many models available online. Or at least not many free ones, with screw-on covers whose walls are thin enough to benefit from being printed in a clear material. I did find a few but the covers did not screw in properly. To make sure that the issue was due to the model and not the printer, I decided to create my own.

The drive to use Form 4 was so strong that it made me want to relearn Fusion 360 after not using it for several years. Fusion 360 is an incredibly powerful and versatile CAD program. It is also free to use for non-commercial purposes. I followed a tutorial on a 3D printed Screw-Top Container. I learned and managed to make a container exactly like I wanted it, with the lid screwed on perfectly. I even used the ProForm label function to write my name on it.

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6408-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6408.jpg)

[![](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6412-rotated-e1747676017274-640x480.jpg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6412-rotated-e1747676017274.jpg)

Finally, one last business idea. Additive manufacturing Professor Olaf Diegel from the University of Aukland share an automated earring generator that he created in PicoGK, an open-source computational design package, developed by LEAP 71, which normally functions from within a ‘console app’, which is a program that interacts with the user through a text-based interface, typically a command line.

This can make it hard for non-computer wizards to interact with it and change parameters for the products they want to design. So, he produced the automatic earring generator as a GUI-based Windows form-driven PicoGK app—something a bit more like apps that ‘regular’ people use.

![Explore the Form 4 review to discover how this 3D printer elevates resin printing with speed and precision.](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Form_4_review_IMG_6424-e1747676109129.jpg)These Star Wars Earrings were created by additive manufacturing Professor Olaf Diegel from the University of Auckland, using the automated earring generator using the PicoGK open source library. You can get them (and the Earring Generator) from [my Thangs model shop](https://thangs.com/designer/davidesher).

On Star Wars Day (May the Fourth), he tested the automated earring generator on some Star Wars icons. Each earring took less than a minute to produce (it took longer to find the mesh files on Thingiverse than to create the earrings), and they are designed to have 3 mm earring studs glued into the back of them. It took me a few minutes to print them, wash them, cure them and glue the studs onto them.

Time to open a shop on Etsy?