Thread: Template(s) for 3D & 2D shapes

Your son-in-law is partly correct, it would be easier to 3D print it, than cut it from wood. However, I would recommend the wood over the 3D printer for two reasons:
1) It won't take 5 minutes to print, if the thing is about the size of a teacup (so it won't be a swallow risk), then he's looking at least an hour, possibly more depending on the printer and the amount of infill he uses.
2) The majority of plastics used by 3D printers are either toxic or at the very least, not suitable for children because of shatter risk. Appropriately finished wooden item would be much safer for the child.

https://imgur.com/a/harQj#HsTh7B9 is a pretty clear tutorial on making a dodecahedron.

And for an icosahedron, https://www.instructables.com/id/Plywood-Icosahedron/

Re: the 3D print - it would likely take *much* longer than 5 minutes, but it would depend on whether he has a 3D model ready, or plans to design it, the amount of fill inside the print. speed of the printer etc.


There are a wide variety of 3D filaments available (including ones which look similar to wood grain), and they vary in their characteristics (strength, flexibility), and chemical composition - just like varying woods do. Some are the same plastic as used in commercially available toys, and some are even approved as food-grade.

Thanks for the links and the advice. Personally, I just prefer, and am used to working with, wood.
Currently making a torus, and a few varied rounded shapes. Chinese puzzles next perhaps.
Cheers
Adrian