14 Display case ideas for miniatures: Show off your collection with style
Oversized Miniature Display case for Warhammer with Endless War Background £34.99
Your miniatures deserve better than gathering dust on the shelf. Maybe your passion is fantasy Dungeons and Dragons figurines or fearsome Warhammer miniatures. Either way, as a serious collector, displaying your collection with style is a must.
With the miniature collecting market booming, with fantasy figure sellers like the Games Workshop reporting sales growth of more than 50%, now's the perfect time to consider stylish display ideas that showcase your miniatures' intricate details in all their glory. Display case ideas for miniatures are also a really simple way to elevate your man cave.
Our 14 display case ideas for miniatures will transform your collection into a mini museum. We'll cover everything from key features to tips for arranging your figures to impress anyone who walks through the door.
What are display cases for miniatures?
Display cases for miniatures are the ultimate way to show off and protect your collection. Put simply, they’ll keep them safe from dust, damage and curious hands, preserving the value and appearance of your figures.
A quality display case shields your miniatures from dust, UV light and accidental bumps, ensuring they remain pristine. Plus, they transform your collection into a visual masterpiece that sparks admiration and conversation.
You won't be lost for choice when choosing a display case. Options include materials like clear acrylic and glass for a sleek appearance that looks great in modern interiors. Styles also range from space-saving wall-mounted cases to statement freestanding models. And with themed options—from sci-fi backdrops to mediaeval settings—there’s a display case to match every collection.
14 display case ideas for miniatures
1. Acrylic display cases for miniatures
Display Case for Warhammer Miniature with Endless War Background £16.99
Acrylic display cases for miniatures offer a modern, lightweight alternative to glass without sacrificing clarity or protection. Perfect for anyone who loves a contemporary look, these cases are incredibly versatile and are easy to stack or rearrange.
A great alternative to glass, acrylic is a durable material that also provides crystal-clear views of your miniatures but is less prone to shattering. This makes acrylic display cases for miniatures a potentially safer option for households with pets or little ones.
2. Custom display cases for Warhammer miniatures
Display Case for Warhammer Miniature with Clear Background £14.99
Your Warhammer miniatures deserve a showcase as epic as the battles they fight. Custom display cases are the way to go for their unique shapes and sizes that standard cases just can’t handle.
Specifically tailored for your army, a custom display case guarantees a perfect fit, ensuring each piece is perfectly displayed, protected and ready for its next campaign. Some even come with themed backgrounds to help bring your battlefield to life.
3. Collectibles display cases for miniatures
Display Case for Warhammer Squad with Eternal Conflict Background - £25.99
Collectibles display cases for miniatures are the all-in-one solution for showcasing all sorts of mini figures. Whether your collection includes action figures, cars or fantasy characters, these cases come with multiple configurations, podiums and compartments, meaning they can handle it all.
4. Choose a background to enhance your display
Why let your miniatures sit against a plain old backdrop when you can create a scene worthy of their stories? Choosing a themed background for your display case is an easy but effective way to make your collection come alive. Seriously —don't underestimate it.
With printed backdrops or 3D dioramas, you can set the stage for your miniatures and add depth to your display
5. Wall display case for miniatures
Wall Mounted Display case for LEGO® Star Wars Commander Cody Helmet (75350) £42.99
Is saving floor space while still showing off your miniatures a priority? Turn your walls into a gallery with wall display cases for miniatures—the perfect solution for showcasing your collection while keeping your floors clutter-free. You can flaunt your treasures vertically, transforming your walls into a shrine of awesomeness.
Ideal for those who want to maximise space, wall display case for miniatures are perfect for keeping your collectables out of reach of pets or kids. They're available in various materials and can be customised with shelves and LED lighting.
The only challenge you might face is the installation, but once you’ve nailed it, it should be plain sailing the rest of the way.
6. Display miniatures by themes and games
Limited Edition Display Case for Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Skaventide - Skaven Army - £99.99
Why have a random assortment when you can display your miniatures like a curated masterpiece? Organising them by themes and games not only provides organisational satisfaction but also tells an immersive story that draws people in.
Just picture it: your Warhammer Age of Sigmar warriors grouped in epic battle scenes or your sci-fi ships lined up for intergalactic domination. It’s like your own mini-movie set! They might need the occasional rearrangement as new miniatures join the ranks, but a little chaos is part of the fun!
7. Eye-catching tabletop display cases
Display case for LEGO® Minifigures Disney 100 (71038) - £56.99
If you want your miniatures within arm's reach, tabletop display cases are the way to go. They’ll sit comfortably on your desk or coffee table to create a striking centrepiece in any room.
Think of it as your personal stage for miniature drama, with options like rotating platforms and LED lighting to keep your collection in the spotlight. The only downside might be their limited size and the occasional coffee cup battle.
8. Custom display cases for DND miniatures
Display Case for LEGO® Dungeons & Dragons (21348) £134.99
Your Dungeons & Dragons miniatures have epic tales to tell. They deserve a display just as legendary.
Custom cases let you design the perfect home for your heroes and villains. With slots for characters and terrain pieces that mimic your campaign’s theme, these cases are completely worth it for true enthusiasts.
9. Wooden display cases
Wooden display cases bring a classic elegance to your collection. A timeless option, they provide sturdy protection and a warm, natural aesthetic that enhances any room.
With various finishes and styles, wooden cases can be tailored with glass fronts and adjustable shelves to fit your collection perfectly. The highlight? Their durability and sophisticated appearance. The potential snag? They may require some upkeep to keep them looking pristine.
10. Custom Warhammer 40,000 display cases
Unleash the full potential of your Warhammer 40,000 collection with custom display cases tailored to your fearsome battles. Perfect for showcasing your intricately painted models in all their glory, your miniatures get a home as epic as their adventures.
They might be slightly more expensive than standard display cases, but the satisfaction of seeing your unique display come to life is worth spending the extra pennies.
11. Metal display cases
For a display that’s as tough as your miniatures, metal display cases are a stellar choice, providing a rugged, industrial vibe that complements modern spaces. Plus, they’ll stand the test of time, protecting your collection from the hazards of everyday life—not to mention their serious cool factor.
Whether they have a brushed aluminium finish or a sleek steel frame, metal cases add machismo to your display. They’re durable and easy to clean, although they can be heavier and pricier than other options.
12. Display LEGO miniatures
Wall Mounted Tiered Display Cases for LEGO® Minifigures £49.99
Take your LEGO creations from the playroom to the display room with cases designed specially for these iconic bricks. From Star Wars ships to beloved Disney characters, LEGO display cases are the perfect home for your minis, keeping them safe and sound.
With tiered and wall-mounted options available, there’s something for every collection, allowing you to show off your models in style. Take a look at our lego shelf ideas for more inspiration.
13. Complement your miniature display with lighting
You’ve got the miniatures. Now, let’s add some drama with the right lighting. Spotlights, LED strips and even coloured lights can turn your display into a visual show-stopper.
Illuminate key details or set the mood with adjustable lighting that complements your collection and allows your miniatures to shine brighter and grab more attention.
It might take some trial and error to get the lighting just right, but once you hit that sweet spot, your display will be lit—literally.
14. Use a combination of miniature displays
Why settle for one type of display when you can mix it up? Tap into your creative side and combine wall-mounted cases, tabletop setups and custom designs to create a display that’s dynamic and interesting to look at.
This approach lets you experiment and play around with different styles and materials, but it may take some extra planning to get the look just right.
Key features to consider when choosing a display case
Picking the right display case is crucial when creating an eye-catching display. Here’s what to keep in mind.
Size and capacity
Measure twice, buy once! Ensure the case is roomy enough to fit your entire collection and has space for future additions. Nobody wants to cram a mighty dragon into a tiny box! Don’t forget to get dimensions that suit both your miniatures and the space where the case will live.
Style and design
Choose a design that complements your man cave or gaming den. Whether you go for sleek and modern or classic and rustic, ensure it matches your vibe. Remember, the case should enhance, not overshadow, your miniatures.
Protection from dust and damage
Look for cases with tight seals to keep out dust, dirt and those sneaky pet hairs. A sturdy case will protect your miniatures from any accidental knocks, spills and other damaging household hazards. Take a look at our guides ‘How To Clean LEGO’ and ‘Lego Storage Idea,’ which discuss the best ways to keep your LEGO creations safe!
Additional features
Lights: Let your Minifigures bask in a little limelight by adding spotlights or LED strips to highlight your collection’s intricate details.
Lockable doors: Keep your miniatures safe from prying hands with lockable doors. Peace of mind never looked so good.
Adjustable shelves: Versatility is key for a collection that’s always growing, so customise your display to accommodate miniatures of all shapes and sizes.
Tips for displaying miniatures effectively
How to arrange your miniatures for maximum visual impact
Create depth: Place larger pieces in the back and smaller ones up front to create a layered effect. This looks great and ensures every piece is visible and doesn’t get left behind.
Vary heights: Use platforms and stands to elevate certain miniatures and break the monotony. It’ll add visual interest and help spotlight key pieces in your collection.
Group by theme or colour: Arrange miniatures by theme, colour or faction to create a cohesive look. It’s like setting up a curated and stylish miniature art exhibit.
Balance your display: Avoid clutter by leaving some breathing room between pieces. A well-balanced display will highlight the uniqueness of each miniature without it being overwhelming.
Maintenance tips for pristine displays
Dust regularly: Keep a soft cloth handy to periodically wipe down your display case and miniatures to prevent buildup and keep your collection looking sharp.
Use compressed air: A can of compressed air works wonders for getting into all those nooks and crannies that a cloth can't reach. Just be gentle—no one wants a miniature whirlwind!
Handle with care: When rearranging or cleaning, handling your miniatures with care is crucial. Make sure you have clean hands or gloves to avoid transferring oils and dirt.
Check for damage: Regularly inspect your miniatures and case for any signs of wear or damage to keep your collection in tip-top shape.
Read our guide on ‘How To Clean LEGO: Tips And Techniques For Sparkling Sets’ to find out more about how to keep your LEGO sets in pristine condition.
What’s the best display case for miniatures?
Choosing the best display case for miniatures is a careful balance between protection and presentation.
Whether you're drawn to the sleek elegance of glass, the modern edge of acrylic, or the classic appeal of wood, there's a display case for every collector. Custom options can elevate your Warhammer or D&D figures, while lighting and lockable doors add extra flair and security.
The best display case for miniatures will showcase your personal collection beautifully, keeping it safe from dust and damage. Consider the size of your collection, your room's interior style and your personal preferences to find a case that turns your space into a head-turning exhibit.
Ready to give your miniatures the showcase they deserve? Check out Wicked Brick's range of custom display cases designed for every type of miniature and find the ideal display case to make your collection shine.
FAQs
What is a display case called?
A display case is commonly called a showcase, cabinet or vitrine, which describes a protective enclosure that exhibits and protects various items, like miniatures and other collectables.
What can you put in a display case?
Display cases can hold anything you want to showcase and protect, such as miniatures, collectables, memorabilia, trophies and even sentimental items. Popular items that you’ll find on display include model cars, action figures, LEGO sets and even antiques.