From Hobby to Empire: The LV426 Designs Story

It all started with disappointment. Not the kind that makes you give up, but the kind that drives you to do better. Back in 2018, I found myself staring at yet another subpar miniature, thinking, "There has to be a better way." That moment of frustration sparked what would eventually become LV426 Designs.

The Early Days

Like many passionate creators, my journey began with a simple desire to create something better than what was available. Armed with determination and my first 3D printer, I spent countless hours learning, failing, and improving. Those early prints might not have been perfect, but each one taught me something valuable about the craft.

The Turning Point

Fast forward to 2023 - the year that changed everything. After investing in a professional-grade resin printer, what started as a hobby transformed into something more. The quality difference was night and day, and suddenly, the possibilities seemed endless. Each print came out with the kind of detail that made me proud to put my name on it.

Why LV426?

For those wondering about the name - yes, it's a nod to the iconic planet from the Alien franchise. As a lifelong fan of sci-fi and someone who appreciates the intricate design work in these films, it felt fitting to pay homage to one of the greatest sci-fi franchises while building something new.

From Side Hustle to Full-Time Dream

What started as a side project on Etsy has grown into something I never imagined. Each collection - from our Pop Minis to our Papsikels series - represents hours of refinement and dedication to quality. Using premium ABS-Like 3.0 Plus resin and our 9k True-To-Life resolution printer, we've managed to create pieces that don't just meet expectations - they exceed them.

Looking Forward

Now, in 2025, as we launch our dedicated Shopify store, it feels like we're starting a new chapter. The garage is being converted into a proper studio and operation is expanding to meet growing demand.

In a few short weeks I will be attending Comicon. No surprise there, except this time, I'll be there as a trader. I will finally living the dream... going to Comicon whilst getting paid for it!

But some things haven't changed - the commitment to quality, the attention to detail, and the passion for creating something special.

To everyone who's supported me on Etsy, who's shared our work, or who's just discovering us now, to my wife who has supported me from the beginning, and my family who have stood with me during this journey - thank you. This journey has been about more than just creating miniatures; it's about building a community of people who appreciate quality craftsmanship and share our love for these iconic franchises.

Welcome to the next phase of LV426 Designs. The future looks bright, and we're just getting started.