A new bobblehead made in June — from photo to finished product
June 2026 brought one of the most interesting personalized bobblehead projects since the launch of the service. We present the making process, the technical challenges and the final result — a figure with a moving head that combines modern 3D technology and hand finishing.
Starting point: the photo and the client's wishes
The client provided several photos — a high-resolution portrait photo for the facial details and a full-body photo for the body proportions and the choice of clothing. The wish was to make a classic bobblehead (height ~18 cm) with a blue shirt and jeans, with an emphasis on a natural facial expression.
To make a personalized bobblehead we need at least one good photo of the face (well-lit, sharp, looking into the camera). A poorer photo means more manual work during modeling and less accurate details — which is why we always recommend photos taken in daylight, without shadows on the face.
The making process: from 3D model to painting
Using ZBrush we modeled the face — creating the basic geometry of the head, then the details (eyes, nose, mouth, chin). A bobblehead's head is intentionally enlarged (caricature proportion), so special attention goes to the facial expression. We model the bodies in Blender — we adjusted the pose of the arms and added clothing details (shirt, collar, pockets).
We prepared renders of the model from several angles and sent them to the client. After approval we prepared the files for 3D printing — the head and body as separate components (to use a spring connector). We exported STL files with optimized geometry.
We used a resin 3D printer (high resolution, smooth surface). The head and body were printed separately, then cleaned in an IPA bath and cured under UV light. Total printing time: ~14 hours (head 6 hours, body 8 hours).
We inserted a metal base into the body for stability. Between the head and the body we fitted a spring connector — a small spring that allows the head to bob when touched. This is the key element that sets a bobblehead apart from a classic 3D statue.
Hand painting with acrylic paints — a base color for the clothing (blue for the shirt, dark for the trousers), then details (buttons, seams, shading). The face: several layers for a natural skin tone, eye details (pupils, eyelids), hair (several shades for depth). A final varnish for protection.
Technical challenges of this project
Every bobblehead brings specific challenges — with this figure there were two main ones:
- A natural facial expression with caricature proportions — because the head is enlarged, it is harder to preserve a natural likeness. The solution: several iterations of the digital model with small adjustments to the mouth and eyes until the expression was right.
- Stability of the spring connector — in the initial tests the head was too loose (too much bobbing). We adjusted the stiffness of the spring and added an extra ring for fastening — the result is a soft but controlled bob.
The final product and delivery
The bobblehead was made in 10 days (the classic time frame); the packaging includes a protective box with foam, along with care instructions (do not expose to direct sunlight, do not get wet). The client was thrilled with the likeness and the quality of the surface finish.
This bobblehead was a birthday gift, and we also make similar figures for corporate gifts, sports teams, weddings and retirements. We tailor every project to the client's wishes — accessories (ball, trophy, tool), logos on the clothing, company colors.
Why a bobblehead instead of a classic 3D statue?
Bobbleheads are less formal and more fun — ideal for occasions where you want something different. The moving head adds an element of playfulness that a classic statue does not have. At the same time, making one is technically more demanding — the spring connector, a larger volume of material, more time for painting.
For comparison: we make a classic 3D statue in 7–10 days, a bobblehead takes 10–14 days. The price of a bobblehead is somewhat higher (from €79 for the Mini to €249 for the Premium package), but the value lies in the unique combination of realism and caricature.
Order your personalized bobblehead
If you are interested in making a similar figure, the process is simple: you send a photo (ideally of the face and full-body), choose a package and add-ons, and we prepare a digital preview. After your approval, production follows — 3D printing, assembly, painting and delivery. You can find more details on the How to order a bobblehead page or take a look at the full bobblehead price list.
Interested in your own bobblehead?
Send us a photo and a description of the occasion — we'll prepare a preview within 2–3 days.
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