What Are 3D Figures? A Beginner’s Guide to Collectibles and Models
Collectibles have always drawn people in. Statues and handmade models have been part of that culture for decades. 3D figures take this passion into a new space. They have more depth and more variety than flat images. Some of these collectables are physical models crafted with care. Others are digital creations designed with AI.
For new collectors, this niche might feel complex. There are action figures and even digital figurines that turn portraits into lifelike objects. This guide explains what 3D figures are and the tools that help you create them.
What Are 3D Figures?
3D figures are objects designed to be viewed in three dimensions. These figures have depth that can be seen from every angle. Physical 3D figures include collectibles like multiple items, such as statues and action figures. They are often made of plastic and metal.
Digital 3D figures exist inside softwares and creative platforms. They can be avatars for animation or AI-generated figurines. Their appeal lies in customization and the ability to create endless variations without physical limits.
3D figures bring imagination into a form that feels real. They bridge the gap between flat visuals and objects that you can display and even interact with in virtual spaces.
2D vs 3D Models: The Factual Difference
| Feature | 2D Figures | 3D Figures |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Flat, height, and width only | Height, width, and depth |
| View | Single perspective | Can be seen from all angles |
| Realism | Limited | High, feels tangible or lifelike |
| Space Needed | Minimal, easy to store | Requires display space |
| Cost | Usually low | Can be expensive depending on materials or detail |
| Creation Effort | Simple sketches or prints | Sculpting, casting, or digital modeling |
| Interaction | Visual only | Can touch, pose, or interact in digital environments |
| Best For | Wall art, illustrations, collectibles for display. | Display pieces, action figures, miniatures, digital avatars |
What are the Types of 3D Figures?
3D figures come in many forms. Each type has its own purpose, style, and audience. Understanding the categories makes it easier to explore or start collecting.
1. Collectible statues and figurines
These are display pieces designed with fine detail. They capture characters and artistic concepts. Collectors prefer them for display rather than play. And you can often find them on bookshelves and professional desks.
2. Action figures
Action figures are poseable models. They usually have accessories and interchangeable parts. Action figures are designed for both play and collection. You can usually find some intriguing 3D models on e-commerce stores like Etsy.
3. Model kits
Model kits come in parts that need assembly. Some require painting, while others are pre-colored. They are popular among hobbyists who enjoy customizing 3D models.
4. Miniatures
Miniatures are small-scale figures used in tabletop games. Despite their size, they often feature remarkable detail. Some prominent organizations create amazing board games where 3D models have a huge part to play.
5. Digital 3D models and avatars
These figures live in software and AI platforms. They can represent people and fantasy characters. Digital formats allow quick adjustments and limitless creative options. Anime characters are most often created using AI tools. But with the advancement of AI, users have begun creating their own 3D models.
Use cases of Creating 3D Models
| Use Case | Problem | How AI 3D Models Help |
|---|---|---|
| E-commerce | Flat product photos lack depth and appeal | Create interactive 3D product models that customers can view from every angle |
| We are | Building assets manually takes weeks | Generate ready-to-use characters, vehicles, and environments quickly |
| Architecture | Clients struggle to imagine 2D blueprints | Present detailed 3D layouts and walkthroughs for better clarity |
| Education | Students cannot visualize complex concepts | Build 3D models of molecules, machines, or historical monuments for easy learning |
| Entertainment & Media | Movies and ads need realistic props | Design lifelike 3D figures, vehicles, or fantasy elements for production |
| Fashion | Physical prototypes are costly | Produce 3D clothing models to test designs before manufacturing |
| Personal Projects | Creators want unique collectibles | Generate custom 3D figures of pets, cars, or even fantasy creatures |
How to Make a 3D Figure Using Google Nano Banana
Google Nano Banana has become a viral tool for creating 3D figurines from photos. You can access it through the Google AI Studio. It allows users to generate hyper-realistic images in seconds. The process is entirely free for all users. That is why it is popular among creators and collectors alike.
Features of Google Nano Banana
The tool accurately detects your facial features. And when creating the 3D figure, the tool implements it with precision.
You don't need to wait several minutes to generate an image. All you need to do is upload an image and type the prompt. The tool needs less than a minute to create the images.
All the generated images can be downloaded in high resolution. There is no quality loss throughout the process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating 3D Figures Using Google Nano Banana
Google Nano Banana can be accessed for free using the Google AI Studio. It includes several other tools, including Veo and Native Speech Generator. Follow these steps to create 3D figures instantly:
Step 1: Click on ‘Nano Banana’ on Google AI Studio
Upon visiting the Google AI Studio, click Nano Banana to access the tool.
Step 2: Upload Your Image and Enter a Text Prompt
Now you just need to upload your image to the tool. After that, you have to enter the following prompt:
| Prompt: Create a 1/7 scale commercialized figurine of the character in the picture, in a realistic style, in a real environment. The figurine is placed on a computer desk. The figurine has a round transparent acrylic base with no text on the base. The content on the computer screen is a 3D modeling process of this figurine. Next to the computer screen is a toy packaging box, designed in a style reminiscent of high-quality collectible figures, printed with original artwork. |
Step 3: Download the Output
When the 3D Figure has been generated, you can download the image by clicking the download icon.
Here’s the end result:
Google Nano Banana is free to use. It does not have multiple editing features, and that’s a considerable shortcoming. But you can always enter another prompt in the same thread to make a change in the designs. If you are looking for a tool that gives you more control over your designs and lets you edit them with complete creative control, you can do that by using X-Design AI Agent.
How to Create 3D Figures Using X-Design AI Agent?
X-Design is a creative suite of visual editing tools. The AI tools within X-Design help you to edit and create certain visuals, like 3D figures. The best part is that you get to edit the image using an intuitive AI editor. All your images are downloaded in the highest resolution, and all you need to do is upload your image and enter a prompt.
Features of X-Design AI Agent
Multiple variants for a single image: When you enter a prompt, X-Design presents you with three to four options to choose from and edit. This feature is, however, lacking in Google Nano Banana.
Built-in editor: The tool allows you to edit all the images within the AI Agent interface. You can remove the background, enhance the overall quality, and generate new elements to add to the image directly.
Multiple format export: 3D models generated through the X-Design AI agent can be exported in various formats. The most popular formats available on X-Design AI Agent are PNG and JPG.
Step-by-Step Guide for Creating 3D Figures Using X-Design AI Agent
X-Design can be accessed through your web browser. Upon signing in, you need to come to the workspace to get started.
Step 1: Enter a Prompt and Upload Your Image
Click ‘Agent’ when you enter your workspace. Then upload your image, enter a prompt, and click ‘Send’. Here’s a sample that you can follow:
| Prompt: Turn this uploaded portrait into a collectible 3D figurine. Use a realistic finish with fine textures on the clothes and face. Place the figurine on a round transparent stand. Add a simple display box in the background, styled like high-quality merchandise packaging. Keep the lighting soft and studio-like. |
Step 2: Edit the Image Using the AI Editing Tools
You can try changing the background or enhancing the image using the AI tools within the AI Agent.
Step 3: Download the image
The image can be downloaded in JPG and PNG formats. Just click ‘Download’, and the image will be saved to your device.
Unlike Nano Banana, X-Design has advanced customization options when it comes to creating 3D figures. You can not only edit the image, but also add new text onto the image with ease. All of this happens without entering any new prompt.
You can also use it across the images of your pets.
| Prompt: Generate a 3D collectible figure of a Labrador dog sitting on a round transparent acrylic base. Keep the fur texture realistic. Add a toy-style display box in the background, designed like premium merchandise packaging. Use studio lighting with a neutral backdrop to highlight the details. |
But that’s not all. X-Design can subtly create diverse types of models depicting vehicles and mythical creatures, too!
| Prompt: Create a 3D model of a monster truck with oversized wheels and detailed suspension. Use a bold red and black color scheme with metallic textures. Place the truck on a rugged dirt base to highlight its off-road nature. Add realistic lighting that emphasizes reflections on the metal and the ruggedness of the tires. |
Final Word
Digital 3D models have taken social media by storm. Especially after the launch of Google Nano Banana. Social media is bursting with ground-breaking 3D models. X-Design AI Agent has the ability to convert your image into an attractive model. Additionally, you can transform the images of your pets and accessories as well.
X-Design AI Agent has a built-in editing software that allows you to edit your 3D models in real time. That way, you dont have to switch between multiple softwares for creating 3D models.