Introduction: Resin Fishbowl
In that instructable I introduce how create a resin product from design to realization. In this case I created a fishbowl pendant with goldfish and bubbles inside.
Step 1: Design the Project With Tinkercad
First of all we have to design our project. I tried the new Tinkercad functionality Codeblocks and I created the 3D model with code blocks.
The first object is the fishbowl
- first add a cylinder
- then a cube for the border
- Group object and create a copy then resize it at 0.85 in order to create the place to put the goldfish
- Add the ring for the pendant and group all
Step 2: The Goldfish
The second object is the goldfish with bubbles
Add a cylinder for the body and an other for the tailwith a transparent cylinder cut the tail to create an half mooncreate a hole for the eyeThe last design is for bubbles, they are little cylinders.
At this point you can download the .stl file. The object will be like the photo.
Step 3: Slice the Object
Import the .stl file in your slicer software. I usually use Slic3er or the proprietary software for my 3D printer. I decided for an high quality printing. Then print the project.
Step 4: Try the Design and Create Molds
After printing I tried if the design was satisfying then I put all parts in a box
Tip: use a bit of glue to stabilize object otherwise when you overturn the silicone rubber, the objects will tend to come to the surface
Step 5: Prepare and Pour Silicone Rubber
I realized molds with 2 parts silicone rubber for molds, my silicone rubber has 100gr part A and 5 gr part B composition, read catalization description for your rubber.
Step 6: Demolding
Ok you at half path way!!!!
Now demold your objects, I guess you waited for about 6 hours and molds appear solid enough to be ready!
Step 7: Prepare Epoxy Resin
Prepare about 40gr of epoxy resin part A and B, if catalization ratio is like mine at 60% then you could mix 25gr part A and 15gr part B. Mix to avoid parts without catalizator and pour in molds.
Use a transparent quantity for the fishbowl and color with a resin or glass colors a red part for goldfish and a blue part for bubbles.
Tip: if you have bubbles on surface turn on a lighter near bubbles.
then wait for catalization
Step 8: Final Touch
Demold objects and assemble your project.
Tip: to make sure that pieces don't move ,use a drop of UV glue under goldfish and bubbles, catalize it for few seconds
And now the final touch!
Prepare about 5 gr of epoxy resin and pour over fish and bubbles in order to cover the cavity and create a beautiful gloss finish.
Step 9: Wait and Wear
Wait for catalization and wear the pendant!!!