From Concept to Kit: The Making of a BioBuild Model

At BioBuild Studios, we don’t just print dinosaur fossils—we bring them back to life. Our mission is to make paleontology accessible to everyone, from seasoned fossil collectors to families looking for an exciting, hands-on experience. But what goes into creating a BioBuild model? Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at how our life-size dinosaur fossil kits come to be.


Step 1: Research & Selection

Every BioBuild model starts with extensive research. We collaborate with paleontologists and fossil experts to ensure our models are scientifically accurate. Our team scours fossil records, museum archives, and 3D scans of real specimens to select the most fascinating dinosaurs to recreate. We focus on species that are both iconic and unique—like the Lythronax, a lesser-known relative of the T. rex, or the walking armoured tank Gargoyleosaurus, the first of its kind ever made into a model kit. We’re here to boost our fellow creators, not compete with them, so we try to pick dinosaurs who are a little more obscure, but equally as cool!

Hard at work building the armoured Gargoyleosaurus.

Step 2: Digital Reconstruction

Once a dinosaur is selected, our 3D design team gets to work. Using cutting-edge software, we digitally reconstruct the fossil with precision. This process involves:

  • Refining details based on fossil evidence.

  • Ensuring that each bone, ridge, and suture is as accurate as possible.

  • Structuring the model into interlocking, buildable parts that fit together seamlessly.

Triceratops nose horn being modelled to scale.

Ready to move on to the next phase!


Step 3: 3D Printing & Production

After the digital model is finalized, it moves into the 3D printing phase. Our high-resolution printers use durable, lightweight materials to bring each fossil to life. The printing process can take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on the complexity and size of the model. Once printed, the parts are carefully cleaned and inspected for quality.

Raw 3D-printed horn piece prototypes ready to test fit.

VERY NICE! I LIKE, HIGH 5!


Step 4: Finishing Touches

Some collectors love the raw 3D-printed look, while others want a museum-quality finish. That’s why our kits are designed for customization. We provide detailed painting guides to help builders add realistic textures and hues to their fossils. Our finishing experts use airbrushing techniques and hand-painting methods to create stunning replicas—many of which are displayed in museums and private collections.

All painted and ready for display!

Step 5: Packaging & Shipping

Before a model reaches your hands, it goes through one final quality check. Each kit is packaged with care, including step-by-step assembly instructions and fun paleontology facts. We want our customers to feel the thrill of discovery as they build their own life-size fossil replica.


The BioBuild Experience

Building a BioBuild model is more than just assembling a kit—it’s about experiencing the excitement of being a paleontologist. Whether you’re a parent sharing a passion for dinosaurs with your child or a collector adding to your fossil display, our models are designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and awe.

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes content, fossil facts, and exclusive model reveals! Have a favorite dinosaur you’d love to see as a BioBuild kit? Let us know in the comments!

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