Big Spider

thingiverse

In time for Halloween, print this 102mm x 150mm MakerBot spider in black or glow-in-the-dark ABS. The third photo from below is a photoshopped representation of what the black version would look like. Modeled after a Google diagram of a real spider, the proportions are almost accurate except for the 10x size. The spider's head isn't very detailed, having only closed fangs. Creating animal models is more challenging than geometric objects, as they have no straight lines but rather short segments with changing lengths and diameters. This realization makes you appreciate other models on Thingiverse even more. Print the spider body at a 45-degree angle to fit onto the MakerBot platform. Ensure proper centering of your XY table before beginning to print, and use a heated build platform for ABS printing. In SkeinForge, set infill density to .03 in the Fill menu. Print the body halves raftless as they're glued together on flat sides with just a bit of sanding using 220A sandpaper. Apply acetone (with caution due to its flammability and other hazards) along the seam for a strong bond between the halves. The legs, updated on October 22, should be 72mm overall in size as shown in the finished model. Print three copies of the STL file for eight usable legs. A raft is necessary due to modeling issues (tapering legs requiring support). No additional support material is needed. After printing, the legs are strong and can support the body. Initially, try boolean cutting for leg holes, but be prepared for multiple attempts to get the sizing right. Alternatively, use a cutout slot for custom leg positioning. To assemble, apply hot glue to the spider body and rough-fit each leg before final positioning.