Double Colour 3D Printed Keyring Design Process and Print on PrintUP K8 3D Printer

Source: https://updating.co.za/double-colour-3d-printed-keyring

• published: 2025-02-05 13:48:57
• modified: 2025-02-05 13:55:14
• youtube:
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE_WkNdbb40

In today's project, we are tackling a customer request for a two-colour 3D-printed key ringor tag. While we cannot showcase the customer's specific design, we will demonstrate the process using the AM.CO.ZA logo as an example. This guide will take you through the entire process, from design to final printing, using our PrintUp K8 3D Printer.

Watch the below video to follow the process:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE_WkNdbb40

Watch Video on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE_WkNdbb40

Step 1: Designing the Key Ring

Choosing the Right Software

If you do not already have a 3D modeling program, we recommend using TinkerCAD. It is a free, user-friendly tool that allows you to create designs with ease.

Importing a Logo or Creating Text

Once TinkerCAD is set up, you can import your design files in STL, OBG, or SVG formats. If a logo is unavailable, TinkerCAD also includes a text tool to generate custom words for your key ring.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE_WkNdbb40

Adjusting the Size

To ensure the key ring is an appropriate size for a set of keys, we recommend adjusting the dimensions. Hold down the shift key while resizing to maintain proportionality. A good size to aim for is around 100 mm wide and 10 mm tall, with a thickness of about 3 mm to maintain flexibility without being too fragile.

Creating the Base Layer

The base is crucial for supporting the text and logo.

• Select a square or shape as your base.

• Adjust the thickness to 3 mm for durability.

• Round the corners for a refined appearance.

• Align the text/logo with the base by selecting both and using the align tool.

Step 2: Adding a Key Ring Hole

There are two main ways to attach the key ring:

• External Loop – Add a separate loop on the side using a tube shape. Ensure the thickness is sufficient to prevent snapping.

• Integrated Hole – Extend one side of the key ring and create a hole directly within the structure. This method enhances durability and minimizes the risk of breakage.

For an integrated hole:

• Make one side of the key ring longer.

• Use a cylinder tool to cut out a 3 mm hole near the edge.

• Align and group the elements to finalize the design.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE_WkNdbb40

Step 3: Preparing for Two-Colour Printing

Once the design is complete, export it and import it into slicing software. If you are new to colour separation for 3D printing, refer toAM’s YouTube tutorials for a detailed guide.

Configuring the Colour Layers

• Import the 3D model into the slicer.

• Add a support locker to define different colour regions.

• Adjust the object’s position and scale to ensure proper colour division.

• Assign the first colour to the base layer and the second colour to the text/logo.

• Use a purge tower to remove residual filament between colour transitions.

Step 4: Slicing and Printing

After configuring the settings:

• Slice the model to generate G-code.

• Save the file to a memory stick.

• Load the correct filament sequence into the 3D Printer.

• Begin the print process and monitor the filament transition for accuracy.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bE_WkNdbb40

Final Result

Once printing is complete, you will have a professional-looking two-colour key ring. In our demonstration, we used white for the base and blue for the text/logo, but the possibilities are endless. Experiment with different colours to match personal or branding preferences.

By following this guide, you can create a custom, durable, and aesthetically pleasing key ring using a two-colour 3D printing technique. Happy printing!

In a time where AI and smart technologies are transforming industries, AM.CO.ZA has emerged as a leader in CNC routers and printing machines. With more than 11 years of experience, they offer a diverse range of advanced products, including CNC Routers, Large Format Printers, Vinyl Cutters, Laser Cutters, Plasma Cutters, and DTF Printers. Their solutions serve a wide array of sectors, from manufacturing and engineering to the creative arts.

Machines, Consumables and Parts Available from https://buythis.co.za#ai

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