StationForge has grown into a giant in the tabletop gaming world. The numbers speak for themselves – over 9.8 million views and more than 24,800 followers. This 3D modeling brand creates high-quality, printable miniatures that tabletop gaming enthusiasts love.
Newcomers learning about 3D printing will find StationForge miniatures a great starting point. Their pre-supported, ready-to-print files make the process simple. The brand’s collection features everything from foul xenos to techno heretics. You’ll also find fan favorites like StationForge Scavengers and StationForge National Guard. StationForge uses MyMiniFactory (MMF) as their main platform and releases new STL models twice every month. The sort of thing I love about these miniatures is how you can mix and match parts. Hobbyists can create unique pieces by customizing and kitbashing parts for their favorite tabletop games.
Let me show you everything you need to know about StationForge. We’ll cover their products, community, and help you get started with your first prints.
What is StationForge and who is it for?
Brand recognition in tabletop gaming depends on quality and versatility. StationForge has emerged as a specialized 3D modeling brand that creates printable miniatures for tabletop gaming enthusiasts. This digital design studio started with a clear vision and quickly became popular among hobbyists who want tailored options for their games.
A quick overview of StationForge
StationForge specializes in developing high-quality 3D models that players can print and use in tabletop games. The company differs from traditional miniature manufacturers by providing digital STL files instead of physical products. Users with 3D printers can create their own miniatures at home.
The brand wants to expand creative possibilities through diverse themes and modular designs. StationForge’s stated goal is to “help you expand your creative side by providing many parts and models with possibilities to kitbash them into something of your own”. This focus on customization makes them unique in the digital miniatures market.
Their business runs through subscription services on platforms like Patreon and MyMiniFactory (MMF). StationForge’s community has grown to 1,104 paid members with 599 posts on Patreon alone. Subscribers get regular new model releases they can download, print, and add to their gaming collections.
Who are the creators behind StationForge?
The core team includes talented 3D modelers who release content on schedule. Two main designers—Artiiicus and Skaprzon—create the monthly releases. Artiiicus posts on the 10th while Skaprzon shares work on the 20th of each month. This schedule gives subscribers new content throughout the year.
These creators stay active on YouTube, Facebook, and Discord. They share tutorials and painting guides while building connections with their community. Their commitment to quality shows in their pre-supported model files that help reduce printing failures.
Why tabletop gamers love it
StationForge’s popularity among tabletop enthusiasts comes from several factors:
The brand offers a wide variety of sculpts and themes. Many competitors focus on one style, but StationForge creates models ranging from grimdark to orcs, space bugs, dieselpunk, and cyberpunk genres. Players can find miniatures that fit their favorite game system.
Pre-supported files make 3D printing more available. Even beginners have few failures with StationForge models. This feature removes a major obstacle for people new to 3D printing.
The modular design approach allows extensive customization. Each release has many interchangeable parts—one pack included 20 bodies, 34 arms, 5 backpacks, and 10 accessories. Players can create unique armies instead of using similar units.
These models combine smoothly with popular game systems like Space Station Zero, Stargrave, and One Page Rules: Grimdark Future. The $10 monthly subscription offers great value compared to traditional miniature costs.
StationForge gives tabletop gamers a compelling alternative to mainstream manufacturers with unique, customizable, and affordable options.
Exploring StationForge Miniatures
StationForge’s huge catalog of miniatures shows their steadfast dedication to quality designs in many factions. Each collection brings its own style while keeping the signature modularity that makes these STL files stand out for tabletop gamers.
GrimGuard, Orkaz, and other factions
GrimGuard stands as one of StationForge’s flagship collections with military-style units in specialized roles. The GrimGuard Infantry Builder is a complete kit that lets you create 20 unique infantry troops. You get 48 arm variations, 56 head options, and 20 backpacks in 4 different design sets. This rich customization helps you build diverse squads without repeating models.
The GrimGuard lineup goes beyond infantry with specialized units like:
- GrimGuard Bombardiers for heavy firepower
- GrimGuard Radioactive Mutants for variety
- GrimGuard Bastioners for defensive options
- GrimGuard Light Tank for vehicular support
The Orkaz faction brings a more aggressive, tribal look with several unit types. You’ll find Team Fighters, Smashers, and even Pirate-themed Orkaz units. The Orkaz Gognaut serves as an impressive centerpiece model that dominates the tabletop.
StationForge’s catalog has many more factions including Xenarid Assassins, RoyalGuard Starfly units, Socratis Doom Reapers, and Tarion Priests. This wide range lets players find models that work with almost any sci-fi or fantasy game system.
StationForge Scavengers and Tyranids
The Scavengers collection has grown into one of StationForge’s most popular lines. It features post-apocalyptic and mechanically enhanced units. The Scavenger Mechanods set comes with 10 cybernetically enhanced fighters. The Scavenger Volatiles set gives you 6 different miniatures in dynamic poses.
You’ll also find interesting variants like the Scavenger Elders and Scavenger Serpents. Each one keeps the faction’s unique style while giving you different tactical options for tabletop play. The variety within this single faction shows how StationForge helps you build complete armies.
StationForge makes Tyranid-inspired models too, perfect for players who want alien or insectoid armies. These biomechanical creatures work well alongside the more humanoid factions, opening up new gaming possibilities across different systems.
Modular parts and kitbashing potential
The sort of thing I love about StationForge is their focus on modular design. Kitbashing means mixing parts from different model kits to create unique, custom pieces. StationForge taps into this concept by making their miniatures with interchangeable components.
Players say “the modular options are fantastic” and the parts system “makes them better than most cheap resin models”. This approach gives you several benefits:
- Cost efficiency – You need fewer purchases to get more army variety
- Creative freedom – You can design unique units instead of using similar models
- Collection longevity – New parts can give existing collections a fresh look
The system works well in practice too. One reviewer noted, “Standard mini assembly needed for arms. All the heads are already attached and unique per body and dynamic pose”. This mix of customization and easy assembly makes StationForge great for both newcomers and veteran hobbyists.
StationForge’s own words confirm this: they want to “make quality tabletop miniatures in a variety of themes to help you expand your creative side by providing many parts and models with possibilities to kitbash them into something of your own”. This approach creates real value for customers while carving out their unique market position.
How StationForge subscriptions work
The StationForge digital miniatures subscription system works through a simple yet powerful distribution model. Their approach gives tabletop gaming fans both flexibility and great value.
StationForge Patreon tiers explained
StationForge runs its business through Patreon subscriptions that let members access the current month’s printable miniatures. The Standard Tier costs $10 USD per month and serves as their main offering. Members get all current month’s releases right away, which usually feature squad miniatures, special characters, creatures, or a mix of these.
Subscribers get these great benefits:
- Pre-supported STL files ready to print
- Modular models with mix-and-match parts
- Community activities and events
New subscribers should know that their files stay on a linked platform. The best part? These designs remain yours even after you unsubscribe. You’ll build your own collection instead of just renting access.
What is StationForge MMF?
StationForge MMF shows up on MyMiniFactory, a platform made just for 3D printable designs. MyMiniFactory serves as their file delivery system and permanent library. Every model goes through this platform and stays in your library forever.
Getting started takes just three steps:
- Create an account on MyMiniFactory with your Patreon email
- Let the systems link up (3-5 hours for new subscribers)
- Log in and download your miniatures
Last month’s releases go up for sale in their MyMiniFactory store. Current Patreon members get a nice 20% discount code for these older collections. This lets new members catch up on any designs they missed.
Monthly STL drops and welcome packs
StationForge stands out by releasing new content twice each month. While others stick to one monthly drop, StationForge delivers fresh content on the 10th and 20th. Artiiicus creates the first release, and Skaprzon handles the second.
New subscribers love the welcome pack. This awesome starter collection brings 30 different miniatures right when you join. After that, you’ll get more than 100 models each month through regular releases.
The model variety looks amazing. Past releases came with complete sets like:
- 10-man squads with special weapons
- Mix-and-match parts (20 bodies, 34 arms, 5 backpacks, 10 accessories)
Each file comes pre-supported. This removes a big technical challenge for hobbyists who can download and print right away. Beginners starting their 3D printing journey will find StationForge especially helpful.
Community and social platforms
StationForge has created more than just miniatures. They’ve built a vibrant community across social platforms where enthusiasts can connect, share their work, and take part in community events. These online spaces are now a crucial part of the brand’s identity and what makes it special.
StationForge Discord and how to join
The StationForge community thrives on their Discord server. With over 2,000 members, people talk daily about printing techniques, painting strategies, and ways to customize miniatures. This platform lets hobbyists exchange ideas, solve printing problems, and show off their finished models.
Getting into the Discord community is simple. You can head to stationforge.com/community/ and click the “Join the community” button. You can also jump right in through discord.com/invite/stationforge. New members will find channels for every faction, printing tips, and a space for upcoming release announcements.
Sharing your prints on Instagram
Instagram has become the go-to platform for StationForge enthusiasts to showcase their work. The official @stationforge account shows amazing community creations along with new product announcements. Instagram’s visual focus makes it perfect for showing off painted miniatures and custom kitbashed creations.
Creators often use hashtags like #stationforge and #miniaturepainting to share their work. This creates an easy-to-browse collection of community projects. New enthusiasts can find painting techniques and customization ideas while meeting other hobbyists through these tags.
Painting contests and community showcases
StationForge runs regular painting competitions that encourage friendly rivalry and help people improve their skills. Their 3rd anniversary brought a special contest featuring “Skulldarts Special” miniatures with great prizes. These competitions follow a simple format:
Participants paint specific models within a time limit. They submit their work through platforms like Reddit’s r/PrintedWarhammer subreddit. Winners get prizes that range from high-end equipment to painting supplies.
The latest competition offered amazing rewards. First place won a Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K printer, second place got The Army Speedpaint Mega Set, and runners-up received various painting kits. These contests do more than encourage artistic expression – they help grow StationForge’s presence across social media.
StationForge uses Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, and Discord to build a reliable community structure. They’ve created an active ecosystem where hobbyists find inspiration, guidance, and recognition.
How to get started with StationForge
You’ll need some basic setup to start creating 3D printed miniatures with StationForge’s digital designs. The right equipment, settings, and techniques will help you get amazing results from these detailed models.
Downloading your first StationForge STL
Your StationForge experience starts when you access their digital files. Patreon subscribers can immediately download the current month’s releases through MyMiniFactory (MMF). Create an MMF account with your Patreon email first. The systems take about 3-5 hours to link for new subscribers, and then you’ll always have access to your files.
StationForge files come with a great advantage – they’re pre-supported. This removes the biggest problem most beginners face. The process becomes really simple: download the STL files, load them into your slicer software, and send them to your printer.
Recommended 3D printers and settings
Resin printers deliver much better results than FDM technology for tabletop miniatures with sharp details. The community really loves these models:
The Elegoo Saturn series stands out, especially the Saturn 4 Ultra that features self-leveling and a built-in camera for reliable printing. The Anycubic Photon Mono series offers great value, with the Mono 2 costing around $149. The Phrozen Sonic Mini also ranks among user favorites.
New buyers should budget $200-300 for a quality starter resin printer. You’ll also need these essential items:
- A wash and cure station that matches your printer size
- Nitrile gloves for handling uncured resin
- Isopropyl alcohol (95-99% recommended) for cleaning prints
Tips for beginners in tabletop printing
Safety should be your top priority since resin is toxic and irritating. Direct contact with resin must be avoided, so always wear gloves. Your printing area needs proper ventilation. A dedicated space with good airflow or extraction will prevent fumes from building up.
Calibration tests will help you find the right exposure settings. Here’s the typical post-processing workflow:
- Carefully removing prints from the build plate
- Washing models in isopropyl alcohol to remove uncured resin
- Drying thoroughly before UV curing
StationForge’s pre-supported models are perfect for beginners. You won’t have to learn the complex art of support creation. Room temperature should stay around 25°C to avoid print failures.
StationForge has without doubt revolutionized the tabletop miniatures world. Their fresh take on digital design has made a complete ecosystem available to hobbyists of all skill levels. New content arrives twice monthly, and their pre-supported files remove technical roadblocks that could put off newcomers.
The platform’s dedication to modularity makes it special. Each release gives players more than just static models – they get extensive customization options to build unique armies with their own character. This system delivers exceptional value when compared to buying traditional miniatures, especially at just $10 per month.
StationForge’s community adds another dimension to the experience. Their Discord server, social media channels, and regular painting competitions create a supportive space where hobbyists share their techniques and creations. This active community turns a typically solo hobby into a shared creative journey.
Newcomers to 3D printing will love StationForge’s user-friendly approach. Pre-supported files, clear guides, and helpful community support make the learning process much easier. Resin printing needs some upfront investment and safety measures, but the ability to create professional-quality miniatures at home makes it worthwhile.
The future looks bright for StationForge in the tabletop gaming arena. Their growing catalog covers many factions and themes that work with different game systems. Hobbyists who want unique, customizable miniatures on a budget will find StationForge hits the sweet spot between quality, creativity, and cost.
Here are some FAQs about what is Stationforge:
What is station forge?
StationForge is a company that specializes in creating high-quality 3D printable miniatures and digital sculpts for tabletop gaming. They are particularly known for their stationforge miniatures that often feature sci-fi and fantasy themes, with popular lines like their stationforge national guard and stationforge scavengers collections.
Is StationForge a game?
No, StationForge is not a game itself but rather a creator of 3D printable miniatures and digital assets used in tabletop games. Their stationforge mmf (MyMiniFactory) store and other platforms distribute these digital files for gamers and hobbyists to print and use in their own gaming systems.
What material is used for miniatures?
Traditional miniatures are often made from plastic, resin, or metal, but StationForge specializes in digital files for 3D printing. Those who print stationforge miniatures typically use UV resin or PLA filament to create physical models from their digital designs.
What is illegal to print on a 3D printer?
It is generally illegal to print copyrighted objects, weapons, or items that infringe on patents without permission. While you can legally purchase and print stationforge mmf files for personal use, reproducing them for commercial purposes without authorization would violate intellectual property laws.
What is forge used for?
In the context of StationForge, “forge” refers to their digital creation process of designing and sculpting miniature models. The stationforge national guard and other collections are “forged” digitally before being made available as printable files for the gaming community.
Does Station Forge have a Patreon?
Yes, StationForge does maintain a Patreon where subscribers receive regular releases of new miniature designs. Their Patreon often provides early access to new stationforge scavengers and other collections before they become available on other platforms.
What are forge games?
“Forge games” typically refers to games created using development tools like the Halo Forge map editor, not directly related to StationForge. However, many people use stationforge miniatures in various tabletop games that could be considered “forge games” in a broader sense.
Is Warhammer just D&D?
No, Warhammer and Dungeons & Dragons are different tabletop gaming systems with distinct rules, settings, and gameplay mechanics. While both can use miniatures like those from StationForge, Warhammer focuses more on strategic combat while D&D emphasizes role-playing and storytelling.
