Build a 3D printed desktop sized lamp using Circuit Playground Express. Use a mini IR remote to control the brightness and change the colors of the LEDs. It features five multi-colored panels that have geometric designs.
A shoji lantern (or Andon) is a traditional Japanese light fixture featuring translucent paper panels usually set within a wooden frame. It adds a gentle warm glow to bedrooms and ideal for creating a calm meditative atmosphere. Originally designed to protect an oil wick flame from the wind, this project modernizes the concept with LEDs.
This uses a sliding dovetail joint for the frame which is a woodworking technique. It provides a strong, self-locking connection by sliding a tail into a corresponding socket. The tail features a trapezoidal shape. It's good for mechanical strength and resistant to being pulled apart.
To stay within the traditional woodworking technique, this doesn't use any hardware fasteners to assemble. No screws or glue, just snap fit 3D printed parts!
A mini IR remote can be used to change the color of the ten NeoPixel LEDs. 0-9 numbers are assigned to change the colors while the play/pause button turns them all off. The up and down arrows are used to increase or decrease the brightness of the LEDs.
The panels are 3D printed using a translucent filaments. They utilize a multi-material add-on that uses four different colored filaments combined in a single printed part.
The shapes are inspired by impossible objects that use optical illusions to appear like three-dimensional geometric shapes.
Panels slide into the stiles (vertical uprights) and are secured within the frame. The frame can hold up to five different panels. The panels can be swapped out for different designs making this a modular assembly.
Page last edited February 26, 2026
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