3D Printing a Cactus Planter
Tools & Materials
Project Description
How do we design and 3D print a faceted planter with a Prusa MK3S+?
As part of my growing plant collection, I have a set of miniature cacti that needed a new home. With a new 3D printer in my tool kit, I decided to apply my skills as an architect to design a model of a custom planter that’s inspired by aspects of the cactus.
Using a software called Rhinoceros, I developed a 3D model with simple commands including line, copy, move, rotate, loft, and offset. I drew a shape that resembled a star, copied it vertically, and rotated each layer. I used the loft command to create a surface between each layer and offset the surface to provide thickness.
The final product includes a drip tray that uses the same angles as the base of the planter. It includes several raised stubs that hold the planter above the surface and allows water to drip out of three holes at its base.
