LAIKA and Rizzoli plan book series—with a focus on 3D printing in stop-motion production

To mark its 20th anniversary, the stop-motion studio LAIKA, together with Rizzoli, is announcing a five-part publication series under the Rizzoli Universe imprint. It will debut with “LAIKA: The Magic Behind a Stop-Motion Dream Factory” (release: March 10, 2026). The large-format volume traces the production processes behind works such as “ParaNorman,” “The Boxtrolls,” “Kubo and the Two Strings,” and “Missing Link” through script development, puppet-building, 3D printing, storyboards, and archival materials; dedicated volumes on “Coraline” and “Wildwood” are planned.

For a technically inclined readership, LAIKA’s digital pipeline is of particular interest. The studio combines model-based effects with additive manufacturing: heads and facial segments are 3D printed in finely graduated variants to enable lip-synced animation with minimal tolerances. Color management and texture fidelity play a central role, through high-resolution printing processes and subsequent painting. The books promise insights into part series, swap mechanisms, and material selection—from photopolymer plastics for detailed faceplates to more robust blends for load-bearing structures. This is complemented by engineering drawings showing how magnetic anchor points, threaded inserts, and internal guides precisely position the interchangeable components.

“LAIKA’s films are beloved around the world, not only for their memorable heroes and singular stories, but also for the artistic excellence that goes into crafting each frame of film. That’s why there’s no better partner for LAIKA than Rizzoli, renowned for books that transcend the ordinary to become timeless objects of art. We’re thrilled to collaborate with such an esteemed publisher on this series of beautiful, collectible publications that showcase the artistry behind our films”, said David Burke, LAIKA Chief Marketing & Operations Officer.

“Rizzoli Universe is excited to celebrate the history of LAIKA and its unique place in the cinema firmament. The studio’s love of craftsmanship and attention to detail will be on full display in these new books and decks, giving fans a chance to interact in a whole new way with the worlds of Coraline, Wildwood, and beyond”, said Charles Miers, Publisher, Rizzoli New York.

The series targets fans and professionals alike, documenting how digital planning and 3D printing complement classic puppet-building with reproducible, scalable workflows.