Portland Studio LAIKA Adopts New 3D Printing Software
The local stop-motion studio is integrating PrismSlicer technology to refine the production of complex facial expressions.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Animation
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LAIKA has partnered with Prague-based software developer Additive Appearance to integrate PrismSlicer into its 3D printing workflow. The software aims to improve color and translucency accuracy for stop-motion character faces.
Why it matters
By simulating how models look under specific lighting, the software reduces the number of physical print iterations needed. This efficiency addresses long-standing challenges in achieving consistency between digital designs and physical animation parts.
LAIKA previously generated 106,000 distinct facial expressions for the film Missing Link. The studio previously utilized Cuttlefish software to manage these complex assets.
The players
LAIKA
A stop-motion animation studio based near Portland that is known for its pioneering use of rapid prototyping technology in feature films.
Additive Appearance
A software company based in Prague that spun off from Charles University to develop advanced visualization and printing tools.
The details
PrismSlicer enables artists at the Portland studio to preview color and translucency before initiating a physical print. The tool uses a simulation backend to mimic studio lighting conditions, which the studio expects will lead to faster artist feedback and fewer wasted materials.
Timeline
2005: LAIKA is founded near Portland, Oregon.
2016: LAIKA receives a Scientific and Technology Oscar for its 3D printing work.
2019: Stratasys J735 and J750 printers receive Pantone validation.
October 23, 2026: LAIKA feature film Wildwood opens.
Industry Dynamics
This integration builds upon the color-validation capabilities established by the Stratasys J750 PolyJet printer to ensure digital color accuracy matches physical output. It reflects a wider push in the animation sector toward reducing material waste through precise digital simulation.
While the technology changes the studio's internal production speed, moviegoers can see the results of these technical advancements in upcoming feature films. The studio plans for the wide release of its next film, Wildwood, on October 23, 2026.
The takeaway
Advancements in digital simulation are increasingly critical for high-end stop-motion studios seeking to maintain efficiency at scale. Artists and designers in related fields can look to this workflow as a model for bridging the gap between digital render appearance and physical material reality.
Further reading
For more news on the local studio's technical milestones, visit the Animation section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 3D Printing Industry.
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