Icicle Tree Topper

thingiverse

A timely entry for those still seeking a tree topper. Utilizing a battery-powered light set from Target, I crafted a translucent star with internal twinkling lights. This endeavor requires some effort, yet remains straightforward and enjoyable! Here is a video showcasing the twinkling lights: https://youtu.be/THbDZfwUzMw Print Settings Printer Brand: Deltaprintr Printer: Deltaprintr Kit Rafts: No Supports: No Resolution: 0.3mm Infill: varies by part Notes: For the icicles and the socket, I used 0 infill and 0.6 for the shell. The bottom was left open with a solid top fill. The center and cap were 10% infill with the same shell and both top and bottom solid. You can employ supports for the center, but direct cooling worked for me. The PLA bridged remarkably well. I used Cura and SeeMeCNC translucent blue PLA with a 200° extruder and 50° bed featuring glue stick on glass. Post-Printing Assembly You will need three large spikes and four small spikes. Print all the parts and drill a small hole in the top of the socket to facilitate wire passage. Obtain the Philips Warm White Twinkling Dewdrop Light set line as seen in the picture ($6.99 on sale at Target). Feed the entire light string up through the socket. By folding the string, you can distribute the lights evenly across the star's points. Take your time, ensuring even distribution is achieved. Assemble with superglue, using minimal amounts as this is purely decorative. I glued mine together before stringing the lights, but gluing last might be easier. The remaining lights can be coiled into the center for effect. This is the light set you want from Target. How I Designed This Design steps Most of this design was created in TinkerCad. I utilized the Make#6 Classic Icicle model from Faberdashery found here: http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:196653. I crafted the center and experimented until the two sizes of icicles fit properly. The cap was an afterthought, but it completes the project nicely.