-
October 17, 2025
3D printing allows ideas that once seemed impossible to become reality. In this project, our challenge was to create a giant 3-meter-tall sculpture of Bruce Lee for a martial arts academy in São Paulo.
From digital design to final finishing, each stage required precision, planning and a great deal of passion for additive manufacturing.
It all started with a contact from a combat sports academy in São Paulo that wanted an iconic piece: a 3-meter sculpture of Bruce Lee that would transmit strength, energy and movement.
The request was clear: a striking, resistant figure with a professional finish, capable of becoming the symbol of the gym.
The first step was digital modeling. From photographic references and classic poses of the martial artist, our 3D design team created a model with all the anatomical details: facial expression, musculature, clothing and dynamic posture.
We worked on organic modeling software to achieve a balance between realism and structural stability, as the sculpture had to stand upright without visible metal reinforcements.
.jpeg)
Given the magnitude of the project (3 meters high), it was necessary to divide the model into multiple sections compatible with the print volume of our large format 3D printers Big T3D printers, which have a usable volume of 1 m³.
Each part was strategically cut to optimize printing times, reduce material waste and facilitate subsequent assembly.
PLA was chosen as the main material, for its excellent balance between rigidity, weight and ease of post-processing.
For several days, the printers worked non-stop.
Bruce Lee's body was printed in 7 sections: head, 2x torso, 3x legs and base.
Thanks to the precision of our machines and the control of extrusion parameters, we achieved parts with a uniform surface quality, ready for the next step.
Once printed, the parts were carefully assembled and glued together using reinforced internal joints.
Then began one of the most laborious stages: sanding.
Each area was manually worked to remove the layer lines typical of FDM printing, obtaining a completely smooth surface, ready to receive paint.
The painting phase was essential to bring the character to life.
A base of sealer was applied, followed by layers of color and realistic shadows that highlight the musculature and details of the face.
Finally, a protective satin lacquer was applied to provide gloss and wear resistance, ensuring the durability of the sculpture in a high-traffic indoor environment.
After completing the process, the sculpture was carefully packed and transported to the academy in São Paulo.
With the help of our technical team, it was installed and fixed in the main hall.
The result was spectacular: a 3-meter figure of Bruce Lee that captures everyone's attention and transmits the energy of martial arts.
This project sums up everything we are passionate about at Trideo: combining technology, creativity and precision to transform ideas into tangible realities.
Large format 3D printing opens up a universe of possibilities for art, architecture and advertising, making it possible to create sculptures and unique pieces on any scale.
If you want to take your project to the next level, contact us or visit www.trideo3d.com to find out how we can help you materialize your ideas.
