3D Printed Christmas Ornaments and Holiday Decor
Engraving works on flat surfaces. 3D printing builds shapes. Here's what that means for Christmas.
Most of what we do around Christmas is engraving, but 3D printing opens up a different kind of ornament. Instead of a design on a flat surface, you get an actual shape. Here's what that makes possible.
Ornaments with real shape
A 3D printed ornament can be a figure, an animal, a small building, or a character your family loves. It has depth that a flat engraved ornament doesn't, and it catches light differently on a tree.
Lithophane ornaments
A lithophane ornament looks like a plain white shape until a small light glows behind it. Then a photo shows up. It's a good way to turn a family photo into something that lights up on the tree.
Display pieces and village houses
3D printing is good for small buildings, a nativity scene, or a set of pieces that sit on a mantel or a shelf. If you've got a village you add to every year, a custom house with your family's name is one way to start.
How durable is a 3D printed ornament?
They're strong enough to hang on a tree year after year. Treat them like any ornament, with a bit of care. Don't leave them in a hot attic or a car in summer, since heat can warp some printed plastics. Store them somewhere cool and dry.
Can an ornament be made in a custom shape?
Sometimes. Simple shapes, like a house or a silhouette, are easy. Very detailed shapes depend on the size, since fine details can get lost on small pieces. Send us an idea or a picture and we'll tell you what's realistic.
How long does it take?
A small ornament prints quickly, but we print in a queue, and the holiday season gets busy. Order early so there's time for adjustments.
Can I mix 3D printed and engraved pieces?
Yes. Many families do both, with a few 3D printed ornaments for shape and a few engraved ones for names and dates. They look good together.
Tell us what you're picturing and when you need it, and we'll let you know what we can do.