Pine Cone Christmas Decoration 1

This Christmas Tree Decoration is one of 4 designs based on pine cones and walnuts. These are produced from real pine cones and walnuts I found in our yard. I think neighbour is feeding the squirrels walnuts as we don't have any walnut trees in the area.

The pine cone is based on my 3D photo capture of a real pine cone. The 3D photo scanned model can be found on SketchFab at: https://skfb.ly/ovwPW

In the 3D capture process, 50 photos of the pine cone from all angles are analyzed and assembled into the 3D model using a program called PhotoCatch on a MAC computer.

The 3D model was then manipulated in Blender 4 to produce the STL file included here. In this stage, the pine cone was split down the centre in halves for printing flat to avoid having to print supports. A hole was added to the back of the 2 halves for ease of alignment when gluing.

In Cura 5.3 I scaled the .stl to approx 82mm and printed on an Ender 3 printer with pla filament

Print settings were
Ender 3 printer
Bed temp 60
Filament temp 200
Speed 60mm
No supports

Post printing, a small wooden peg was fitted in the alignment hole and the 2 halves were glued together with two-part, 5 minute epoxy. An elastic band held the pieces together while the glue set.

The pine cone was then sprayed with a coat of Rustoleum brand primer, and then Rustoluem brand silver for colour. I recommend printing them in the colour of your choice to avoid the painting.

Lastly, a ribbon is added for hanging it on a tree and your decoration is complete.