Mines of Maznar: Print & Paint Project – Turning 3D Models into Tabletop Art

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Realistic painted 3D-printed dwarven tomb terrain with stone textures and spider, by OrangeCube3D

3D printed tabletop terrain has never looked this good — and this project is proof. Discover how OrangeCube3D partnered with Everon Games to bring the Mines of Maznar Kickstarter to life, from the first test print to the final painted piece. Explore the full print & paint process, expert tips for painting Dwarven miniatures, and what it’s really like to collaborate on a tabletop gaming commission

How the Mines of Maznar Collaboration Began

Some of the most rewarding 3D printing terrain projects start with a genuine connection. My collaboration with Maksym, the creative mind behind The Printing Goes Ever On (now Everon Games), began organically. As a Patreon supporter and merchant, I’d already sold his painted miniatures and Dwarven terrain, and we’d previously teamed up for a custom sculpting project for one of my clients. Lots of Facebook chats, a shared love for tabletop gaming, and mutual respect for each other’s work set the foundation.

When Maksym launched the Mines of Maznar Kickstarter, he reached out to see if I’d be up for test-printing and painting some of the new modular terrain. The first results impressed both of us, sparking a longer partnership focused on real-world quality control for 3D printed terrain and miniatures. Together, we kept pushing the quality higher—culminating in projects like Puzzles and Props Vol. 1 and beyond.

Full view of the 3D printed Mines of Maznar modular bridge, photographed from a top-angled side perspective to show assembled stonework, painted details, and the complete stair and walkway structure for tabletop gaming

My Role: Quality Control for 3D Printed Terrain

Back then, I didn’t have digital sculpting experience—my focus was hands-on with the physical models. My role for Mines of Maznar:

  • Print and test every piece for durability and detail
  • Troubleshoot printing challenges (supports, orientation, fit)
  • Paint each miniature and terrain section for realism
  • Provide honest, practical feedback to ensure every model could be printed and painted by hobbyists, not just pros

In short, I was the “can this really be printed and painted by a normal human?” checkpoint for Kickstarter miniatures and custom tabletop terrain.

Behind-the-scenes look at the 3D print testing setup for the Mines of Maznar modular bridge, showing bridge parts laid out on a table with assorted scatter terrain pieces to test fit and assembly process

Favorite Pieces and Painting Challenges

Every print & paint commission has its standouts. For Mines of Maznar, my favorite was the Dwarven King’s Tomb with the giant spider. There’s something special about the way the stone, dust, and dirt come together—realistic, even in a fantasy setting.

The biggest challenge? Photographing the massive modular bridge. If you’ve ever tried photographing large 3D printed terrain, you know the struggle! Picture me with a paper backdrop in my mouth, arms stretched out holding lights, while my friend snapped the shot. DIY at its finest—sometimes the behind-the-scenes is as memorable as the finished piece.

Close-up of the 3D printed bridge stairs from the Mines of Maznar set, highlighting textured stone steps and realistic painting effects
Bridge stairs close-up: subtle gradients and drybrushed textures capture the look of ancient stone, ready for any adventure.
Behind-the-scenes look at the 3D print testing setup for the Mines of Maznar modular bridge, showing bridge parts laid out on a table with assorted scatter terrain pieces to test fit and assembly process
Print testing in action: bridge segments and scatter terrain laid out for fit checks, assembly, and hands-on troubleshooting before painting.
Completed and fully painted Gates of Maznar 3D printed terrain, showing detailed stonework and golden doors, ready for tabletop gaming display
The Gates of Maznar—finished and ready for adventure, with intricate stonework and metallic accents setting the scene for your next game.
Realistic painted 3D-printed dwarven tomb terrain with stone textures and spider, by OrangeCube3D
Dwarven King’s Tomb: stone textures, dust, and a lurking spider bring this centerpiece terrain to life on the tabletop.
Side view of the 3D printed modular bridge from the Mines of Maznar terrain set, showing stonework details, fully painted for tabletop gaming
Modular bridge, side profile—fully painted to highlight the sculpted stonework and scale of the Mines of Maznar set.
Close-up of the 3D printed bridge stairs from the Mines of Maznar set, highlighting textured stone steps and realistic painting effects
Detailed view of the modular bridge stairs—showcasing layered stone textures and hand-painted weathering for an authentic, worn effect.

Painting Process: Achieving Realism with 3D Printed Terrain

All pieces were printed in PLA using FDM printers, then finished with acrylic paints and dry pigments for realistic effects. Here’s my workflow for painting Dwarven terrain and miniatures:

  1. Base Layer: Airbrush stone and earth tones (think camouflage for terrain).
  2. Drybrushing: Layer different grays over the top—drybrushing means using a nearly dry brush to highlight raised details.
  3. Selective Shading: Apply very thinned-down paint to deepen shadows and add depth.
  4. Pigments: Once dry, dust on dry pigments for authentic dirt and weathering.

Tips for Painting Tabletop Terrain:

  • Don’t stress about making everything uniform—nature is random! Lay down patches of different tones for a natural look.
  • For extra depth, try oil or enamel washes (I’d add more of these if I did it again).
  • Keep it fun—if you’re enjoying the process, it’ll show in the final result.

What Makes These Kickstarter Minis Unique

Maksym’s designs for Everon Games stand out for their commitment to realism—not the exaggerated, heroic proportions you often see in gaming table scenery. My painting approach matched that vision: less fantasy, more mimicking how real stone, earth, and ancient ruins actually look. The result? 3D printed terrain and painted miniatures that feel grounded and immersive, perfect for any tabletop gaming setup.

Commissioning Custom 3D Printed Terrain from OrangeCube3D

If you want to bring your own tabletop vision to life, here’s what you can expect from an OrangeCube3D print & paint commission:

  • Honest advice and clear communication throughout the project
  • Real-world testing—every piece is checked for printability and paintability by a “normal human,” not just a pro
  • Customization based on your ideas, inspiration pics, and favorite colors

Ready to get started? Contact OrangeCube3D for custom commissions, or check out our gallery of finished projects.

Realistic painted 3D-printed dwarven tomb terrain with stone textures and spider, by OrangeCube3D

Final Thoughts: Why I Love Print & Paint Projects

Working on the Mines of Maznar Kickstarter terrain reminded me why I love 3D printing for tabletop gaming. It’s not just about the models—it’s about turning digital ideas into something real, tactile, and beautiful. Collaborating with Everon Games pushed me to try new techniques, troubleshoot in creative ways, and deliver painted miniatures and terrain that add real character to any gaming table.

If you’ve painted your own Mines of Maznar pieces, tag @OrangeCube3D on Instagram or Facebook—I’d love to see your work and share tips! And if you’re ready to start your own custom 3D printed terrain project, let’s talk.

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