Projects: Lithophane

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According to wikipedia, A lithophane is an etched or molded artwork in very thin translucent porcelain or plastic that can be seen clearly only when back lit with a light source. They can be 3d printed.

Generators

When printing

  • See https://all3dp.com/2/how-to-3d-print-your-own-lithophane/
  • Don't print with infill, ensure there are enough walls to account for half the thickness.
  • Print a border if mounting it in a frame or shadowbox.
    • You can print a tall portrait upside down, in case the print fails late, you might prefer the legs/feet get cut off instead of the head(s).
  • If necessary, modify the image before uploading.
    • You can blur the background. Duplicate layer in the GIMP, add alpha channel, then cut out the subject in the top layer. Then blur the bottom layer, and put it back together.

Once printed

  • Mount it in or on something, 3d printed base, wood frame or shadowbox, ideally with a light behind it or around the frame/box.
    • Don't use lights that generate a lot of heat, for instance a halogen light bulb could melt or warp a 3d print.