Back in May I posted .stl files to print a one piece front pocket wallet, and received some great comments and suggestions. At the time I was allready working on another wallet design and let people know I would post those results when done. Well here they are!

The new Lα Jόllα wallet models are two piece wallets that open and close, well... No need for further explanation here. Check out the links below to check out pics and videos that demonstrate the function.

So the new Lα Jόllα wallet project is for those Makers that have access to a Printrbot, or other printer capable of utilizing .stl files. No need to struggle through CAD creation. I am posting completed and repaired .stl files. The beginning of this project is simply set your printer parameters, save to .gcode and have fun!

For those of you that want more enjoyment with less effort, I will post these 3D printed wallets for sale on Etsy. Look for them in a couple weeks. Also, there are fully CNC machined aluminum versions currenty available on Kickstarter. Check out the poster below.

Let's get started here!

Step 1: CNC Machined Versions Available on Kickstarter

I am currently putting CNC machined aluminum versions of these LaJolla wallets up for backing on Kickstarter. Please take a look at the poster to see what the finished products look like. Then check out the links to find out the answer to your questions about how well these wallets work.

And, of course, please back this project on Kickstarter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXozWh9rvqE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tXozWh9rvqE

http://www.veosllc.com

Step 2: Materials Needed:

F I R S T T O O L S :
1. Any 3Dprinter capable of utilizing .stl files. Print size required is about 4.5" x 4.5" x .125" thick.
2. Long nose, or wire cutting pliers.
3. Small flat blade screwdriver
4. Scissors

N E X T W α L L E T :
1. 1/4" x 3.5" rubber band. (This is a standard size available at any office store.
2. Fold back paper clip, with about 1 1/4" long body.
3. A report folder with a frosted front cover. The thicker the front, the better. (Note: Report cover not shown.)

Step 3: .stl File Preparation

I created these models in Solidworks, then exported them as .stl files. The next step was to utilize Netfab to import, repair and re-export the .stl files. At this point it is time to load the files into Slic3R. I used PLA to create my wαllets. I used 2 solid layers before and after infill layers. I also used 2 perimeters, and 25% infill. The final product is both flexible and very robust. Since different printers and materials require unique settings, I won't bother anyone with the rest of the detailed printer settings I used.

Choose which wαllet you prefer. Check out the poster and links on the front page for descriptions of the models and differences. Then download the chosen file. Load the downloaded file into Slic3R and select the printing options you prefer. Once the file is processed and exported from Slic3R as a .gcode file you are ready to go. Load this into your printer and print!

SIDE NOTE: The file is prepared so the front face is down on the printer. Two reasons for this. One, I print and smush the bottom layer just a little, it yields a glass like smooth front face. Two, this part orientation eliminates major overhangs and allows having a bevel on the edges that cards slide past. Lastly, I printed wallets plates as a set. One top piece and one bottom piece each print to make a wallet each run, just a thought.

Step 4: Fabricate Other Parts

Time to cut the report folder up. Cut a section from the front clear report cover. The best report cover to use will have a thick front, one side smooth and one side frosted. The one side smooth provides a nice clear view of what is behind it in the wαllet.

Lay the cut section over a credit card. Use the credit card as a template and cut around the credit card. And you are done here.

(NOTE: you can also use a milk carton if needed. It just seemed a little gross to me, and the milk carton is not quite as clear once a picture is laid next to it.)

Next, pick up the fold back paper clip and remove one of the steel legs. There are two sections on this steel leg that are between 9/16" & 5/8" long. Use the wire cutting pliers to cut these two straight sections out of the leg. You now have two chromed steel dowel pins.

You are ready to assemble your new Veos wαllet.

Step 5: The LaJolla Wallet Assembly

Okay, gather up the printed wαllet, rubber band, dowel pins, and frosted window.

Push the rubber band through one slot from front to back. Pull the rubber band through about 95% so a small loop is left on the front side of the wallet. Slide the first pin through the rubber band loop. Next, pull the rubber band taut from the back. This seats the first pin.

Now, pull the band taut again, use the screwdriver to push a small loop of the rubber band through the second slot. Push the second pin through this rubber band loop. Lastly pull the main loop of the rubber band loop taut to seat the second pin.

Step 6: Enjoy the New LaJolla Wallet You Just Made

Slide a picture, or I.D. into place then slide you cards into place.

LAST NOTE: Play around a little, the top card can be slid out about 1/2 way and then run through a retail card reader without actually removing it. Then just push it back in, quick and easy!

I hope these two new wallet models tweak your interest. Feel free to make suggestions, or just make improvements on your items using ideas found here. Let's make!

Enjoy your new Veos LaJolla model wallet,,, and finally, please back me on Kickstarter !!!