Reference guide for base sizes, categories, and scale standards for high-fidelity printing.
In tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons (D&D), Pathfinder, and wargames like Warhammer 40k or Age of Sigmar, miniatures are mounted on specific base sizes to represent the area a creature controls on the battlefield. This is distinct from the physical size of the model itself; a base represents the "personal space" required for a creature to move and fight effectively.
In grid-based games (like D&D 5e), base sizes correspond to the grid squares (usually 1-inch squares representing 5 feet). In free-movement skirmish games (like Warhammer or Infinity), base sizes determine "Base Contact" for melee attacks and interactions. Ensuring your 3D print is on the correct base is critical for gameplay mechanics.
Estimating the height of creatures can be challenging when scaling 3D files. Based on the common 30mm scale (standard for modern D&D and Wargaming, where approx 5.1mm equals 1 foot), here are general guidelines for creature heights:
| Size Category | Approx. Height | Base Suggestion |
|---|---|---|
| Small | ~15mm - 20mm | 20mm / 25mm |
| Medium | ~30mm - 35mm | 25mm / 1" |
| Large | ~60mm - 80mm | 50mm / 2" |
| Huge | ~90mm | 75mm / 3" |
| Gargantuan | ~120mm | 100mm / 4" |
| Colossal | ~240mm+ | 150mm+ / 6"+ |
Tip: There is often a "scale gap" between Medium (35mm) and Large (50mm). Creatures in the 7ft-10ft range (like Goliaths, large Orcs, or Warhammer Ogryns) can look oversized on 1-inch bases but undersized on 2-inch bases. For display pieces, scaling these to ~45-50mm creates a more imposing "heroic" presence.
This category covers the smallest creatures (familiars, rats, halflings, gnomes, Warhammer Grots). While some may fit on smaller bases, standardizing on a 20mm or 25mm base is common for stability.
The most common size category. Humans, Elves, Dwarves, Space Marines, and most humanoid enemies fall here. These miniatures comfortably fit within a single 1-inch grid square.
Used for creatures that stand significantly taller than a human (Ogres, Trolls, Horses, Terminators) or occupy more horizontal space (Dire Wolves). On a D&D grid, these occupy a 2x2 square area (10ft x 10ft in-game).
This category includes Giants, Young Dragons, Treants, and Dreadnoughts. These massive figures dominate the board and require significant stability.
Adult Dragons, Krakens, Greater Daemons, and Purple Worms. These are centerpieces for any encounter.
The largest category, reserved for Ancient Dragons, Titans, and Tarrasques. These models are often multi-part prints requiring assembly.
Often used for mounted units (horses, bikes) or quadrupedal beasts that are long but narrow. Common in Warhammer Fantasy and Age of Sigmar.
Used for creatures that fly or levitate (Beholders, Harpies, Jetpack units). These consist of a standard base with a clear acrylic stem or a printed support pillar to elevate the model off the ground, allowing other miniatures to potentially move "under" parts of the model.
*Note: Because every screen has a different pixel density (PPI), physical measurements on your screen may vary. These visual representations are intended as a general guide; final physical prints will be precisely calibrated to their specified sizing references.