With the holiday season just around the corner, what better way to get into the festive spirit than by 3D printing your own Christmas decorations? Whether you're looking for a unique ornament, a customizable tree, or a fun holiday gift, 3D printing opens up a world of creativity. Here are some of the best 3D printed Christmas decorations to inspire your holiday crafting.
Top 3D Printed Christmas Decorations
1. Santa and Snowman - Multicolor Knitted Container
Link: Santa and Snowman - Christmas Multicolor Knitted Container
Description: This multicolor knitted container is a perfect blend of function and decoration. You can store holiday treats or use it as a festive centerpiece. It requires no supports, making it an easy print for beginners and pros alike.
2. The Nightmare Before Christmas - Diorama
Link: The Nightmare Before Christmas - Diorama
Description: For fans of Tim Burton's classic, this diorama captures the essence of "The Nightmare Before Christmas." It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a spooky twist to their Christmas décor.
3. Customizable Christmas Tree
Link: Customizable Christmas Tree
Description: This fully customizable Christmas tree allows you to create a unique design. You can adjust the height, branches, and even add custom decorations. Perfect for personalizing your holiday setup.
4. Spinning Christmas Tree - Table Top Decoration
Link: Spinning Christmas Tree
Description: A dynamic centerpiece, this spinning Christmas tree will draw the eye with its rotating design. It’s perfect for tabletops and adds a fun, kinetic element to your holiday décor.
5. Articulated Christmas Toys
Link: Articulated Christmas Toys
Description: These toys are not only festive but functional as well! The articulation allows them to move, making them perfect for play or as quirky decorations.
6. Christmas Tree Ornament - Merry Christmas
Link: Christmas Tree Ornament - Merry Christmas
Description: A classic ornament design with "Merry Christmas" inscribed. This simple yet elegant decoration is ideal for any tree.
7. Baby Yoda Christmas Ornament
Link: Baby Yoda Christmas Ornament
Description: Baby Yoda (Grogu) is ready for the holiday season with this cute ornament. A must-have for fans of "The Mandalorian."
8. Labyrinth Gift Box
Link: Labyrinth Gift Box
Description: Add a bit of mystery to your gift-giving with this labyrinth gift box. Your recipient will have to solve the puzzle to open it, making the unwrapping experience even more fun.
9. Russian Doll Random Maze Puzzle Gift Box (Updated Xmas 2018)
Link: Russian Doll Random Maze Puzzle Gift Box
Description: A creative take on the Russian nesting dolls, this maze puzzle gift box offers an interactive challenge for anyone receiving it.
10. Holiday Christmas Deer
Link: Holiday Christmas Deer
Description: A beautiful, stylized deer that’s perfect as a tabletop decoration or placed on a mantel. This 3D print brings a touch of elegance to any holiday display.
11. Ornaments
Link: Ornaments
Description: A versatile collection of Christmas-themed ornaments that range from classic to playful designs. This set is perfect for decorating your tree, home, or gifting to loved ones. The variety allows for customization, offering both traditional and contemporary holiday aesthetics.
12.Parametric LED Tea Light
Link: Parametric LED Tea Light
Description: A customizable LED tea light design that brings a warm, festive glow to any room. Perfect for creating mood lighting, these tea lights are ideal for Christmas parties or quiet holiday evenings. You can adjust the size and shape to match your decor theme, adding a personal touch to your holiday lighting.
13. Kaleidoscope Christmas Balls (Set of 3)
Link: Kaleidoscope Christmas Balls (Set of 3)
Description: This set of 3 intricately designed kaleidoscope-patterned Christmas balls offers a dynamic visual effect when placed on a tree or in holiday displays. Their symmetrical patterns catch the light beautifully, making them stand out among traditional ornaments. These ornaments bring a touch of modern elegance to your festive decorations.
14. Christmas Teardrop Ornaments
Link: Christmas Teardrop Ornaments
Description: These teardrop-shaped ornaments add a sophisticated and unique twist to your holiday decorations. The elongated shape contrasts with traditional round ornaments, offering a stylish upgrade for your tree or wreath. Perfect for those looking for a more refined and elegant holiday look.
15. Christmas (Cookie) Ornaments
Link: Christmas (Cookie) Ornaments
Description: Inspired by classic holiday cookies, these ornaments combine the charm of home-baked treats with festive decor. These fun and whimsical designs are perfect for family-friendly decorating and can be easily painted or customized for a personal touch. Great for adding a playful vibe to your tree or holiday display.
16. Festive Spiral Christmas Ornaments
Link: Festive Spiral Christmas Ornaments
Description: With a mesmerizing spiral design, these ornaments create an illusion of movement when they catch the light. Their elegant curves are perfect for modern holiday settings, while still fitting in with more traditional decor. These ornaments bring a sense of flow and rhythm to your tree, making them stand out from the usual holiday decorations.
17. Ornament Containers (Closed)
Link: Ornament Containers (Closed)
Description: These handy closed containers are perfect for safely storing your delicate ornaments during the off-season. Designed to keep your precious holiday decorations safe from dust and damage, they’re an essential addition to your holiday storage solutions. Ideal for anyone who values keeping their holiday collection in pristine condition.
18.Lattice Bell Christmas Ornament
Link: Lattice Bell Christmas Ornament
Description: This beautifully designed lattice bell ornament is a blend of traditional holiday symbolism and modern, intricate craftsmanship. The open lattice design allows light to pass through, creating lovely shadows and making it a standout piece on any Christmas tree. It’s a timeless addition to your festive ornament collection.
19. Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Skellington Christmas Ornaments
Link: Nightmare Before Christmas Jack Skellington Christmas Ornaments
Description: Perfect for fans of Tim Burton’s "The Nightmare Before Christmas," these Jack Skellington-themed ornaments bring a touch of Halloween fun into the Christmas season. With intricate details, they capture the iconic character’s spooky charm and add a quirky twist to your holiday decorations. Great for fans looking for something different.
20. Christmas Decorations, Christmas Ornaments
Link: Christmas Decorations, Christmas Ornaments
Description: A collection of classic and elegant Christmas balls designed to enhance the beauty of your holiday decor. These ornaments feature smooth, timeless designs that evoke a traditional Christmas feel while offering the flexibility to be customized in various colors and finishes. Ideal for anyone who loves classic holiday aesthetics.
Printing Tips & Best Practices
Optimal Printer Settings
- Layer Height: 0.12-0.16mm for detailed ornaments; 0.2mm for larger decorations
- Infill: 15-20% for most decorations; 100% for small, detailed pieces
- Print Speed: 40-50mm/s for best quality; reduce to 30mm/s for intricate details
- Temperature: Varies by material (see Material Comparison table below)
Support Considerations
- Ornaments: Design with overhangs less than 45° to minimize support needs
- Articulated Decorations: Print flat on the bed when possible
- Complex Geometries: Use tree supports for delicate features
Common Issues & Solutions
|
Issue |
Cause |
Solution |
|
Stringing |
Temperature too high |
Lower temp by 5°C increments |
|
Layer separation |
Poor bed adhesion |
Clean bed, adjust first layer height |
|
Warping |
Uneven cooling |
Use brim, ensure closed enclosure |
|
Poor details |
Speed too high |
Reduce print speed, check cooling |
Material Comparison
Detailed Material Analysis
|
Material |
Print Temp |
Bed Temp |
Pros |
Cons |
Best Uses |
|
PLA |
190-210°C |
50-60°C |
Easy to print, low warping, many colors |
Brittle, low heat resistance |
Indoor ornaments, detailed decorations |
|
PETG |
230-250°C |
70-80°C |
Durable, weather-resistant |
Stringing issues |
Outdoor decorations, functional parts |
|
TPU |
220-235°C |
50°C |
Flexible, impact-resistant |
Difficult to print |
Flexible ornaments, shock-absorbing parts |
|
ABS |
230-250°C |
100-110°C |
Strong, heat-resistant |
Warping, fumes |
Mechanical decorations, high-stress parts |
Color Considerations
- Metallic Filaments: Great for elegant ornaments but may require slower speeds
-
Multi-color Prints:
- Pause at layer change for manual color swaps
- Use multi-material upgrades for automatic color changes
Special Filaments for Christmas
- Glitter-infused PLA: Adds sparkle to ornaments
- Glow-in-the-dark: Perfect for nighttime displays
- Color-changing: Reacts to temperature for interactive decorations
Safety Considerations
Fire Safety
-
LED Integration
- Use proper voltage LEDs
- Keep wiring away from heated components
- Test electrical components before extended use
-
Material Flammability
- PLA: Relatively safe, melts rather than burns
- ABS: More flammable, use caution with heat sources
Child & Pet Safety
-
Choking Hazards
- Print ornaments larger than 1.25 inches in diameter
- Ensure all articulated parts are securely connected
- Test joint strength before displaying
-
Sharp Edges
- Design with rounded corners
- Sand any potential sharp points
- Keep breakable decorations out of reach
Chemical Safety
-
Printing Environment
- Ensure good ventilation, especially for ABS
- Consider an enclosure with air filtration
- Keep pets away from printer during operation
-
Food Safety
- Use food-grade filament for candy containers
- Apply food-safe coating if needed
- Label food-contact items clearly
Post-Processing Techniques
Surface Smoothing
-
Sanding
- Start with 120 grit, work up to 1000+ for glass-like finish
- Wet sand to minimize dust
- Progressive grits: 120 → 240 → 400 → 800 → 1000+
-
Chemical Smoothing(ABS only)
- Acetone vapor bath: 30-60 seconds exposure
- Brush-on acetone for targeted smoothing Use in well-ventilated area with proper safety equipment
Painting Guide
Preparation
- Sand with 220 grit sandpaper
- Apply primer (recommend plastic-specific primer)
- Light sand between coats
Painting Techniques
|
Technique |
Best For |
Tips |
|
Spray Paint |
Large, simple decorations |
Multiple light coats |
|
Brush Painting |
Detailed work, multiple colors |
Use acrylic paints |
|
Airbrush |
Professional finish, gradients |
Thin paints appropriately |
Finishing Touches
- Clear coat for protection
- Weatherproofing for outdoor decorations
- Glitter or metallic accents
Assembly Tips
- Joining Methods
There are three main methods for joining parts: 1. Super glue, the most popular option; 2. Heat welding, which creates strong bonds for plastics; and 3. Mechanical fasteners, ideal for movable parts. For Christmas ornaments, glue is the most commonly used method, so let's explore the different types of glue available.
Best Glues for Different Decorations
|
Glue Type |
Best For |
Drying Time |
Notes |
|
PVA Glue (White Glue) |
Paper, glitter, sequins |
1-2 hours |
Kid-friendly, washable |
|
Hot Glue |
Fabric, ribbons, larger decorations |
2-3 minutes |
Quick-setting, forms bonds |
|
Super Glue |
Small detailed items, gems |
30 seconds |
Strong hold, be careful with fingers |
|
Mod Podge |
Decoupage, paper, glitter |
15-20 minutes |
Acts as both glue and sealer |
|
E6000 |
Heavy embellishments, outdoor decorations |
24 hours |
Industrial strength, waterproof |
-
Testing & Quality Control
- Check joint strength before hanging
- Test articulation of moving parts
- Verify stability of standing decorations
Special Effects
-
Weathering Techniques
- Dry brushing for snow effect
- Metallic rub-n-buff for antique look
- Clear glitter coat for sparkle
-
LED Integration
- Drill or design holes for light placement
- Use hot glue to secure wiring
- Test lighting before final assembly
Advanced Decoration Techniques
Metallic Finishes
-
Gilding
- Apply sizing (special glue)
- Add metal leaf
- Seal for longevity
-
Metallic Rub-Ons
- Rub-n-buff for antique look
- Metallic waxes for highlights
Weatherproofing Decorated Ornaments
- Clear acrylic sealer spray
- UV-resistant coating for outdoor use
Glitter Application Techniques
-
Full Coverage
- Apply PVA glue or Mod Podge with a brush
- Sprinkle glitter over wet glue
- Let dry, shake off excess
- Seal with clear spray
-
Detailed Patterns
- Use fine-tip glue applicator
- Apply glitter with a small spoon or shaker
- Multiple colors: Let each section dry before starting next
Special Effects
Snow Effects
-
Artificial Snow
- Mix PVA glue with baking soda
- Apply with brush or sponge
- Add glitter while wet for sparkle
-
Frosted Effect
- Use frosted glass spray
- Apply in light layers
Light Integration
-
Glow-in-Dark Paint
- Apply base coat
- Add glow paint
- Charge with light before display
-
LED Integration
- Drill small holes for LED lights
- Secure wires with hot glue
- Battery packs can be hidden in hollow prints
FAQs
1. What is the coolest thing to 3D print for Christmas?
There are endless possibilities when it comes to 3D printing Christmas decorations, but the coolest thing depends on your preferences. For example, if you’re into animated decorations, the Spinning Christmas Tree is a fantastic choice. If you want something more functional and playful, the Labyrinth Gift Box offers both decoration and interaction.
2. Can 3D printers make ornaments?
Absolutely! 3D printers are perfect for creating custom Christmas ornaments. Popular choices include classic designs like the Christmas Tree Ornament - Merry Christmas or pop culture-themed ones like the Baby Yoda Christmas Ornament.
3. What is the best plastic for 3D printing figures and decorations?
The most commonly used material for 3D printing Christmas decorations is PLA (Polylactic Acid). PLA is ideal because it’s easy to print with, environmentally friendly, and provides a smooth finish. It’s also available in a wide variety of colors, which is perfect for holiday-themed prints. For more durable prints, you can use PETG or ABS, but these materials require a bit more expertise to print with.