3D printing unveils a realm of possibilities that extend well beyond mere functionality.
Here at SUNLU, we offer a diverse selection of materials to help transform your ideas into stunning 3D-printed art. Today, we are excited to introduce Nicole Balian, a gifted 3D designer and mold maker, who shows us her candle-making process using SUNLU resin and filament. It’s perfect for adorning your home as a centerpiece. So, without further ado, let's dive right in.
Materials needed:
1. Resin 3D printer with resin of your choice. We used SUNLU red wax resin in this case.
2. Resin detergent.
3. Resin wash and cure machine.
4. Filament 3D printer with filament of your choice. We used SUNLU rainbow PLA
filament in this case.
5.Silicon of your choice.
6. Vacuum chamber.
7. Candle wax of your choice.
8. Candle wick.
9. Microwave-safe container.
Step-by-step process of custom-made candle
1. Candle mold design. Nicole designed this beautiful architectural structure as a
candle mold. Add any decorative elements or textures to the mold as desired. You can certainly choose the model you like as a candle mold.
2. 3D printing mold. Nicole printed it with SUNLU red wax resin on the Elegoo 3D printer.It took around 14 hours to finish the entire print.
3D printing candle mold with SUNLU red wax resin
3. Post-processing. Once the 3D printing is complete, carefully remove the mold from the 3D printer's build plate. Remove any support structures or rough edges using pliers if needed. Clean the model with resin detergent, then cure it.
Post-processing: clean the resin with detergent and then cure it
4. Making silicone mold. Print a barrier using PLA filament and secure it onto the
resin-printed model with tape. Make sure it’s completely sealed in every corner so that the silicone will not leak later.
5. Silicone prep and pour. Prepare the silicone according to the instructions on the
package. Feel free to add color to the silicon. Mix it well.
It is suggested that we should degas or remove the air bubbles from the silicone using a vacuum chamber for a better result. Then, pour the silicone into the mold from a higher position to help air bubbles escape. Pour it into the surrounding area instead of directly onto the piece. Let the silicon sit in the mold for 24 hours.
Degas the silicone and pour it into the 3D printed mold
6. Demolding and reveal. Remove the 3D printed PLA barrier and gently pull out the silicone mold from the 3D printed model. The two pieces of silicone fit each other
perfectly and reveal a nice space for the candle wax.
Demolding and reveal
7. Making mold holder. Use the filament of your choice to print a mold holder so that you can pour the candle wax into the silicone mold. In this case, Nicole used SUNLU rainbow PLA filament. Print the holder completely sealed to prevent the candle wax from leaking in the following steps.
3D printing mold holder using SUNLU rainbow PLA filament
8. Preparing the wick. Cut a candle wick to the desired length, making it slightly taller than the mold. Secure the top end of the wick to a pencil or stick, ensuring it stays centered within the mold.
9. Melting candle wax. In a double boiler or microwave-safe container, melt your chosen candle wax. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for heating and melting.
Optionally, add fragrance oil or coloring to the melted wax for scented or colored
candles.
10. Pouring wax and candle making. Carefully pour the melted wax into the
3D-printed mold, ensuring the wick stays centered. Allow the wax to cool and solidify
within the mold. This may take several hours or overnight.
11. Demolding the candle. Gently take the silicon with wax out from the 3D printed
mold holder. Gently open the silicon mold and take out the solidified wax candle. You
may need a soft tool to help release it. Trim the excess wick from the top of the candle to your desired length.
Demolding the candle
Are you ready to light up your unique, customized candle at home and enjoy it? Not only does it enhance the aesthetic appeal, making it an exquisite piece of home decor, but it also adds a level of functionality that extends beyond its primary purpos.
As you light the candle, its warm, flickering glow enhances the coziness of the room.
Whether you're engrossed in a book or savoring a romantic dinner, the soft illumination creates an intimate atmosphere, enveloping you in a comforting embrace of warmth and tranquility. You can also prepare it as a gift for your loved ones.
We've witnessed how 3D printing technology can transform the simple act of lighting a candle into an artful experience. The fusion of creativity and innovation showcased by Nicole's designs serves as a testament to the boundless possibilities that 3D printing offers. Unleash your imagination and elevate the ordinary into something truly extraordinary.
Here is the tutorial video:
