Introduction: 3D Printed Acorn Earrings
INSPIRATION
Who does’t remember the first time their mind was blown by M.C.Escher’s tessellations? The way he used one shape to create both positive and negative space without gaps. True efficiency and genius!
These 3D printed earrings by Chip Doring use a simple diamond shape with a twist. Three of these shapes repeated around a post and fastened with a lock ring make an elegant lightweight form that is sure to attract attention. The assembly and repetition of form makes each earring open to many color combinations and versatile to any ensemble or occasion. They possess the added benefit of being the center of fascinating conversation because they are homemade!
Who does’t remember the first time their mind was blown by M.C.Escher’s tessellations? The way he used one shape to create both positive and negative space without gaps. True efficiency and genius!
These 3D printed earrings by Chip Doring use a simple diamond shape with a twist. Three of these shapes repeated around a post and fastened with a lock ring make an elegant lightweight form that is sure to attract attention. The assembly and repetition of form makes each earring open to many color combinations and versatile to any ensemble or occasion. They possess the added benefit of being the center of fascinating conversation because they are homemade!
Supplies
Dremel 3D 20 printer (or similar)
1.75mm PLA filament
Hypoallergenic “Fish Hook“ or “Lever Back“ earring wires
ESTIMATED TIME
1.5hr/earring
1.75mm PLA filament
Hypoallergenic “Fish Hook“ or “Lever Back“ earring wires
ESTIMATED TIME
1.5hr/earring
Step 1: Choose Color of PLA Filament
PLA filament is the same plastic that compostable forks are made out of. It is vegetable-based, non-toxic, and biodegradable. It comes in a wide array of colors including metallics, glow-in-the-dark, and color changing! In the photographed example above 1.75mm red, white, and gold “silk” was chosen.
Step 2: Prepare Your Design
The design is most efficient if able to print all pieces for one earring at the same time. In this design, support pieces (unnecessary to the earring assembly) were printed to control the specific layer direction for effect.
Step 3: Print Earrings
The printer was set at 0.1mm layers, 50% fill density, and half speed printing for a super high-density detailed printing. The three interlocking shapes, the post, and the lock ring were printed in a single color for one earring. Filament color may be changed mid-print but must be watched carefully. Stopping it at the exact moment for symmetry can be tricky. Estimated time is 1.5hrs per earring.
Step 4: Assemble Earrings
Assemble 3 spiral shapes around a post and hold together with a lock ring that fits in the groove near the top. No glue necessary. Attach earring wire to top of plastic post. Doesn’t match your dress? That’s okay. Just take them apart and switch to better colors. Ah yes, a night at the Swedish Club. These should do nicely!