Creating a dedicated display for your collection transforms how you showcase and protect your prized pieces. Whether you are a tournament wargamer or a dedicated hobbyist, the right display solution guards against damage while turning your "pile of shame" into an exhibition-grade centrepiece.
Why Upgrade to a Purpose-Built Display?
Many wargamers struggle with cramped, flat shelves or inadequate foam storage, risking paint chipping or snapped resin parts over time. A well-designed wargaming display case doesn't just preserve your miniatures from accidental knocks—it elevates their presentation to a professional level.
Achieving a uniform, premium look is difficult with DIY plywood builds. By opting for a tailored, modular solution, you can accommodate growing armies with flexible setups right out of the box. Our Modular Miniature Display Stands are crafted specifically to handle 28mm to 80mm bases with zero overcrowding.
Our newest addition, the WarSplay Pro, takes this further for 40mm armies — magnets are built into every podium, so models snap on and stay locked in your case even if it is moved or bumped. It is the first of a new magnetic wave from us.
When searching for a display, many collectors look for a standard acrylic miniature display case. However, traditional clear acrylic is highly reflective, causing harsh glare under hobby lamps. WarSplay® systems are crafted from a durable, anti-glare matte plastic, ensuring the focus remains on your intricate paint jobs, not on smudges or reflections. For a full breakdown, read our guide on Acrylic Cases vs. Open Stands.
Comparing Display Materials
| Feature | Glass Cabinet | WarSplay® Matte |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Heavy, shatter risk | Lightweight & durable |
| Glare | High reflection | Zero glare finish |
| Expandability | Fixed size | Infinitely modular |
One factor collectors often overlook is light. The Canadian Conservation Institute notes that light damage to paint is cumulative and runs roughly 1,000 times faster in direct sunlight than at gentle display levels — and ordinary glass is no real defence, still passing around half of all UVA. Whatever case you choose, the single most important rule is to keep it out of direct sun; UV-filtering acrylic and good high-CRI LED lighting handle the rest.
Maximising IKEA Detolf, Kallax, and Billy Cabinets
You don't always need to buy a brand-new cabinet to create a high-end wargaming showcase. Most hobbyists use IKEA® furniture but find that flat glass shelves waste vertical space. By inserting tiered stands, you create a "stadium seating" effect that makes the back row visible. It’s the ultimate IKEA Detolf® upgrade. To see this in action, check out our guide to stopping the foam case burial.
How to Organise Your Forces
A professional display requires a command structure. When organising your collection, consider these three steps:
- Categorise by Faction: Keep your strike forces visually distinct. Our stands are compatible with Warhammer 40,000® and Age of Sigmar®, allowing you to group by army seamlessly.
- Match the Base Size: Ensure your tier spacing is correct. If you are unsure which stand fits your models, consult our Miniature Display Stand Size Guide.
- Establish Hierarchy: Place HQ models on higher tiers, flanked by elites, with standard infantry holding the front line.
Ready to Build Your Exhibition?
Don't settle for "good enough" storage. Give your painted miniatures the museum-grade stage they deserve.
👉 Shop the WarSplay® CollectionCompatibility & Legal: WarSplay® modular stands are independent designs. They are compatible with Warhammer 40,000®, Age of Sigmar®, and other tabletop systems, but are not affiliated with or endorsed by Games Workshop Group PLC. IKEA®, Detolf®, and Billy® are trademarks of Inter IKEA Systems B.V.