Download the Print Files

Download the compressed file containing the 3D printing design (STL) files from the button below, then expand it and save the folder to your computer. The files inside contain designs for the Kaleidoscope's 3D printed parts, as well as the translucent LED covers.

Two versions of the files are available. The first has small tolerances that work well for very precise 3D printers, like a Bambulab, but may result in difficulty assembling the kaleidoscope if your printer is less precise. The second set of files has looser tolerances which should work well for most printers, but may cause jiggly or loose connections for very precise 3D printers.

It's best to start by printing the "LED Container with Bezel.stl" file, which consists of two separate pieces printed together, and verify that the bezel swivels freely around the LED container body without sticking to it (see the Print the Kaleidoscope Parts section below). If this piece prints correctly, the rest of the pieces should do so as well.

There are two sub-folders in the compressed file. One (Body Designs), contains 3 decorative options for the embossed pattern on the kaleidoscope body exterior. Select ONE of these to form the main kaleidoscope body.

leds_EmbossedPatternsFusion.jpg
Body design options: From L to R, BodyDiagonalSquarePattern.stl, BodyCirclePattern.stl, BodyDiamondHexPattern.stl

The list below shows how many of each part to print.

  • Opaque PLA
    • (2) Eyepiece.stl
    • (1) EyepieceCover.stl
    • (1) CoilHolder.stl 
    • (1) LEDContainerWithBezel.stl 
    • (1) triangular body from the folder Body Designs 
  • Transparent PLA
    • (10) items from the 5 shapes in the folder LED Covers

Print the Kaleidoscope Parts

leds_PXL_20230221_212046936.jpg
3D printed parts for the kaleidoscope body. Clockwise from upper left: BodyCirclePattern.stl, Eyepiece.stl, LEDContainerWithBezel.stl, EyepieceCover.stl, Eyepiece.stl, CoilHolder.stl

Import the STL files into the slicer program for your 3D printer. The designs include fine detail like screw threads, and should be printed at fairly high resolution to function well. A layer height of 0.2mm with 40% infill and no support works well for all kaleidoscope body parts.

Depending on the size of your print bed, you may be able to print all of the parts in a single session, or you may need to break them up into multiple print runs. The kaleidoscope body is the biggest part and takes considerably longer than the other elements.

Note that the LED holder is technically two separate pieces that print together so that the bezel is free to rotate around the exterior of the LED compartment, but can't slide off the top or bottom. This MUST be printed as a single piece with the same positioning as in the LEDContainerWithBezel.stl file.

Print the LED Covers

Download the design files for the LED covers. There are 5 shapes to choose from. Since the Wireless LED kit comes with 10 LEDs, you can print two covers of each shape, or vary them however you'd like.

Print the LED Covers from translucent PLA at 0.2mm layer height and infill of 40% or higher with the open end facing upwards.

This guide was first published on Mar 01, 2023. It was last updated on Mar 08, 2024.

This page (3D Printing) was last updated on Mar 08, 2024.

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