How to choose miniature scale

Guide · 5 minute read

Start with the objects around your figures

If your scene centers on vehicles, match the people to the cars first. For a 1:64 street display, a full-height 180 cm person measures around 28 mm. A 1:87 HO model railroad scene needs a figure around 21 mm for that same adult. A manufacturer may intentionally exaggerate anatomy for printing or painting, so height is a useful starting point rather than the only measure.

Check the building, doorway and sidewalk

Scale consistency is often easiest to judge next to a doorway, bench or vehicle door. Measure a printed test figure against the environment. Real people vary in height; it's normal and desirable for figures within a group to have different stature.

Consider minimum printable details

Thick clothing folds and broad poses are more forgiving at small scales than raised fingers, thin bags or delicate hair strands. Do not assume a well-printed 54mm figure will also print as a 21mm figure without modification.

Make a scale checklist

• Pick the dominant model scale.
• Set the intended standing height range.
• Test one sample near a car or doorway.
• Review the smallest accessories before batch printing.
• Use the same scale convention throughout each grouping.

For exact comparison heights, use the miniature scale reference table.