For years, this channel has been all about zip-tie articulated action figures. But there’s one part of what I do that I’ve never shared—until now. Plus: a first look at the Qidi Plus 5 3D printer, my commission pricing breakdown, and why I still get impostor syndrome despite doing this for a living.
The Secret I’ve Never Shared
For years, 3D Zip Guy has been synonymous with zip-tie articulated action figures. And that’s still true—every figure I’ve shown on this channel uses zip-tie articulation in one way or another.
But here’s the truth I’ve been hiding:
I also design traditionally jointed action figures for clients.
I just never really talked about it. While this channel has always been about zip-tie figures, behind the scenes, I’ve been taking on commissions for traditional ball-joint designs. This is the first time I’m sharing this publicly.
Current Commission Project: Original Comic-Based Character
I’ve been working on this figure for the past few weeks for a client who’s launching his own line of action figures based on his original comic. While I can’t reveal the full details yet due to client confidentiality, he did give me permission to show some work-in-progress pieces.
This project represents everything I love about this work: taking an idea that only exists on paper and turning it into something you can actually hold in your hands.
My Journey: Self-Taught Designer with Impostor Syndrome
I’ve made a lot of figures over the years and I’ve done my fair share of commissions, but if I’m being honest, I still don’t think of myself as an expert.
That might come as a surprise, but here’s the reality:
- I never learned any of this in school.
- I didn’t study industrial design.
- I’ve never interned at a toy company.
- I didn’t follow online tutorials, except for basic 3D modeling how-tos.
Back when I was trying to figure all of this out, there really weren’t many resources online like there are today. So most of what I know came from trial and error, performing action figure autopsies on pieces from my own collection, and obsessive experimentation.
Every time I take on a project like this, I still go through the same weird cycle. One minute I’m convinced I know exactly what I’m doing. The next I’m wondering if I have any business making action figures at all.
I guess that’s what they call impostor syndrome. But despite all of that, I still can’t believe I get to do this for a living. It pays the bills, but I’d much rather spend my days making toys than sitting in a cubicle away from my family.
Qidi Plus 5 Unboxing & First Look
Speaking of free stuff, QIDI asked me to try out their new printer and give them my honest feedback. This is the Qidi Plus 5, the successor to their Plus 4.
Key Specs:
- Build Volume: 320 x 320 x 300 mm
- Hotend Temperature: Up to 370°C
- Active Chamber Heating: Yes
- Heated Bed: Up to 120°C
- Multi-Color Printing: Supported (AMS unit sold separately)
From what I’ve seen, the Qidi Plus 5 sits in the same class as machines like the Bambu Lab H2S and the Creality K2 Pro.
Honestly, I don’t consider myself a printer reviewer. I don’t have a huge frame of reference outside of the machines I already own. As a stingy guy like myself, I only care about two things: Can it print my figures? And is it worth the money?
I’ll put it through its paces in my full review coming next video, but I’ll tell you the price now because it’s kind of nuts.
Limited-Time Discount
Regular Price: $749
Discounted Price: $669
(Save $80 if you order before August 31st)
Plus 5 Combo Package: $819 (normally $899)
Commission Pricing Breakdown
Now that the cat’s out of the bag about my traditional figure work, I get asked a lot: “How much do you charge to design action figures?”
The answer isn’t just a single number. Every project is different. Every character comes with its own engineering challenges, different articulation requirements, and different accessories. Some figures take weeks of prototyping before I’m happy with them. Therefore, the cost could easily stack up.
I understand that some people might not be okay with that, so I offer two options.
Option 1: Full Custom Design
This includes a custom sculpting or 3D modeling fee, plus a separate fee for each articulation point and accessory. Extra hands, extra heads, weapons, and effect parts all count as accessories. You can absolutely go bananas with the features, just keep an eye on those extras if you’re working with a fixed budget.
Ideal for: Professional studios, detailed IP, complex articulation needs, and Kickstarter campaigns.
Option 2: Zip Guy Base Body (Budget-Friendly)
This uses my pre-engineered Zip Guy or Galbot body as the foundation. Most of the engineering has already been done, which means I can offer it at a much lower price with a faster turnaround.
The catch: You have to be okay with your character having visible zip-tie joints in their knees. As much as I love them, they aren’t exactly subtle. But that’s the charm!
Ideal for: Independent creators, passion projects, and limited budgets.
Why Original Characters Excite Me Most
As much as I love building characters from franchises I grew up with, it’s honestly even more exciting when someone trusts me with something completely original.
Taking an idea that only exists on paper and turning it into something you can actually hold in your hands—that’s the magic.
Filament Pick: Why I Trust JAYO PLA Plus
Before I wrap up, huge thanks to JAYO. Their PLA Plus has been my go-to filament for quite a while now. In fact, almost every figure you’ve seen in this video was printed in JAYO PLA Plus.
For my commissioned traditional figures, I’m going to be printing in something much more rigid—a material that makes it feel a little closer to the real thing. And I’ll be printing those on the Qidi Plus 5, by the way.
Check out JAYO PLA Plus here: Official Store
Ready to Bring Your Character to Life?
If you’ve been sitting on an original action figure idea and you’re willing to take a chance on a self-taught toy designer, send me your character sheets. Let’s make it real.
Email: 3dzipguy@gmail.com
What to include: Reference art, pose preferences, budget range, and any specific articulation requirements.
Response time is usually within 48 hours. Free consultation, no obligation.
Disclaimer: Some links above are affiliate links—I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This supports channel development and keeps tutorials free. Commission work shown is client-approved; full project details remain confidential until official launch. Qidi Plus 5 unit provided for review; opinions are my own and based on real-world testing. Prices and promotions subject to change; verify on manufacturer site before purchasing.