The axolotl is an extraordinary amphibian that has an incredible ability for regeneration. Its adorable face with a permanent smile makes it increasingly become one of the most beloved pets. Through 3D printing and post-print coloring, it is possible to bring 3D printed axolotl to life. This article shows you how to create a batch of colorful 3D printed axolotls using the Anyucbic Kobra 2 Series fast printers.
Step 1: Download and Slice Axolotl STL File
The model we have printed this time is a print-in-place 3D model - an articulated axolotl robot with a movable head, tail, and limbs. This interesting and unique design is inspired by the beauty of nature and science fiction from the creator MatMire Makes. Download the articulated axolotl STL file, one for its head and the other for its body. This high-quality design, however, is not free and requires a cost of US$3.48. Then, make these two parts in one print, and the snap-fit joints design allows you to connect seamlessly together into one piece after printing.
In the slicing software, we scaled this model in different sizes to create a batch of articulated axolotl 3D prints. Then, we transferred the files to Anycubic 3D printers for printing.
Step 2: Start Creating Axolotl Family via 3D Printing
We used Anycubic Kobra 2 series printers and filaments for this project. The Kobra 2 Pro finished a 3D axolotl, measuring 260mm in length, in a time of 6 hours, 25 minutes, and 54 seconds. Meanwhile, the Kobra 2 Max, with its largest format capability, created a 420mm axolotl in 15 hours, 31 minutes, and 28 seconds.
More detailed information can be found below.
| Model Length | 3D Printer Used | Filament Used | Printer Build Volume | Printer Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 420mm | Anycubic Kobra 2 Max | Anycubic PLA+ | 420 x 420 x 500mm | 500mm/s(Max.) 300mm/s(Avg.) |
| 340mm | Anycubic Kobra 2 Plus | Anycubic PLA+ | 320 x 320 x 400mm | 500mm/s(Max.) 300mm/s(Avg.) |
| 260mm | Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro | Anycubic High-Speed PLA | 220 x 220 x 250mm | 500mm/s(Max.) 300mm/s(Avg.) |
| 260mm | Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo | Anycubic Silk PLA | 220 x 220 x 250mm | 250mm/s(Max.) 150mm/s(Avg.) |
Step 3: Give Life to 3D Printed Axolotl via Adding Color
We have already created a batch of adorable axolotl prints with 3D technology. This step requires using a touch of magic to make them more vivid and vibrant. That's the post-processing tool we used, Anycubic 3D Printing Painting Kit, to work on these objects. This kit contains essential tools such as sanding equipment, paint, paintbrushes, and cleaning cloth. Here is a guide to quickly get you started on using this toolkit. I recommend you check it out for instructions.
Begin with a simple assembly of the parts, directly connecting the head and body together. Then, check the surfaces of these axolotl prints, and if needed, sandpaper can be used to smooth out any rough edges before applying color. Next, get creative with colors by adding primer and paint, followed by outlining their eyes. Finally, add details by using a paint pen to embellish some metallic silver patterns, making them resemble robots more closely.
Let's take a look at the final handicrafts! Four colorful 3D printed articulated axolotl robots have come to life, all thanks to 3D printing technology and creative DIY tools.
