3D Printed Spiral Art Sculptures

This is a collection of 2 mechanical spiral art sculptures, each uniquely designed in SolidWorks and 3D printed using different PLA materials. These pieces blend symmetry and organic motion into elegant desk or shelf art.

Each sculpture explores variations in twist geometry and aesthetic contrast. Whether printed in bold colors or subtle textures, they capture attention and showcase the power of parametric design.

To recreate this project, you'll need:

1. CAD Software: SolidWorks (or any 3D design tool)
2. 3D Printing Service or personal 3D printer
3. Filament: PLA (used red, blue, copper, and white marble effect)
4. Slicing Software (Cura, etc.)

All 4 spiral sculptures were created from scratch using SolidWorks. Techniques included:

1. Base spiral arm sketch
2. Helix and sweep features to define twist profiles
3. Multi-body combinations
4. Careful tolerancing for fit between parts for smooth movements

Each model is unique in structure:

1. The red and blue pieces focus on interlocking spiral channels
2. The copper and marble sculpture uses wider bands twisting around a central sphere with a rooted base that flows like draped fabric

The models were exported in STL and STP formats, and printing was outsourced to a 3D printing company with the following typical specs:

Print Settings:

1. Layer Height: 0.2 mm
2. Infill: 20%
3. Supports: Not required for most orientations
4. Material: PLA
5. Nozzle: 0.4 mm
6. Color Choices: Red, Blue, Copper, White Marble

Each sculpture was printed as two separate parts, then:

1. Dry-fitted (the tolerances were tight but precise)
2. Optionally glued for a permanent bond

Tip: If any connection is too tight, lightly sand the internal surfaces. Don’t force it, as FDM prints can split along layers if over-pressured.

Each of the 2 designs works individually or as a part of a set.

They’re ideal for:

1. Desktop decor
2. Gifts for engineers/designers
3. Parametric art demonstration models
4. Photography subjects due to reflective symmetry