Everyone’s talking about it. Every scroll through my Facebook feed reveals another friend showing off their custom action figure. It’s become a trend—one part nostalgia, one part creativity, and all parts fun. And yes, I jumped on the bandwagon too.
I created my own action figure a while back. Let’s just say… the first try didn’t quite match the epic vision I had in my head. The proportions were off, the face was more “meh” than “AI genius,” and don’t even get me started on the weirdly shaped arms.
But I learned from it. And now I’m back with a far better idea: a ChatGPT action figure—the ultimate tribute to our digital assistant overlord. If you’ve ever wondered what ChatGPT would look like as a sleek, futuristic toy, here’s how to do it right this time, step by step.
From generating the design using prompts, to turning that vision into a 3D model and printing the final product—this guide walks you through it all. Let’s make a ChatGPT action figure that actually looks worthy of being on your desk (or dominating a digital-themed toy shelf).
Creating a custom ChatGPT action figure is a surprisingly fun project that blends creative design, AI-generated art, and even 3D printing. Whether you’re making it for fun, as a gift, or as part of a novelty product line, here’s how you can bring ChatGPT to life in action figure form.
Step 1: Define Your Concept
Before you do anything, decide on what your version of “ChatGPT” looks like. Since ChatGPT doesn’t have a set appearance, you’ve got creative freedom. Do you imagine it as a humanoid robot? A digital wizard? A sleek futuristic AI avatar?
Think About:
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Style: realistic, cartoonish, anime, robotic, or humanoid?
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Personality: helpful assistant, hacker AI, superhero support character?
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Accessories: a laptop, books, digital visor, hologram projector?
Step 2: Use Prompts to Generate Visual Concepts
You’ll need a visual to work from, and ChatGPT (paired with DALL·E or another AI image generator) can help you conceptualize your figure. Try starting with a prompt like one of these:
Prompt 1:
“Create a full-body image of an AI assistant action figure named ChatGPT. It should have a sleek robotic design, glowing circuits, and a floating hologram interface accessory.”
Prompt 2:
“Design a cartoon-style superhero action figure version of ChatGPT with a glowing ‘G’ emblem on its chest, a book-shaped shield, and a visor that displays code.”
Prompt 3:
“Illustrate a futuristic humanoid AI character designed as an educational action figure. The figure should have interchangeable arms (one with a keyboard, one with a tablet), and a friendly face with digital eyes.”
These will generate visuals that you can refine, save, and use as reference for 3D modeling or further illustration.
Step 3: Design the 3D Model
Once your image is ready, the next step is to create a 3D model. You have a few options:
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Use software like Blender, ZBrush, or Tinkercad to manually model it.
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Use an AI tool like Meshy.ai or Sloyd.ai to generate a base model and tweak it.
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Hire a freelance 3D artist on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork to turn your image into a .STL file.
Ensure your model is:
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Poseable or modular if you want movable limbs.
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Structured with a base or stand if it’s display-only.
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Exported in STL or OBJ format for printing.
Step 4: 3D Print It
Once you have your 3D file:
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Use a service like Shapeways, Cults3D, or Printful to print the model.
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Or, use a home 3D printer (FDM or resin) to print the figure in parts.
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You may want to print it in white and paint it yourself with acrylics and sealant.
Tips for Printing:
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Use fine detail settings.
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Print accessories separately for articulation.
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Test fit before painting.
Step 5: Paint and Assemble
Use hobby paints (like Citadel, Vallejo, or Testors) and small brushes for painting.
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Use painter’s tape for crisp edges.
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Add glow effects with fluorescent or metallic paint.
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Seal with a matte or gloss coat for durability.
Snap or glue parts together as needed. You now have a ChatGPT action figure!
Optional: Create Packaging
For an authentic feel:
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Design a retro-style action figure box with plastic blister packaging.
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Use Canva, Photoshop, or AI tools to make a label, logo, and backstory.
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Add a QR code linking to ChatGPT or your favorite prompt.
Creating a ChatGPT action figure is a creative journey through AI, design, and DIY craftsmanship. Whether you lean into a techy look or create a caped chatbot superhero, the result is a unique collectible that’s part geek culture, part artistic expression.
Me As An Action Figure
I while back I created a ChatGPT Action Figure of myself, which came out pretty good–although I’d certainly like to have some changes before I 3d print it.
Here’s another one, Bill Hartzer as a packaged action figure. Did I ever mention that I was in a store in San Francisco, California and actually saw a marketing action figure of Seth Godin?