2. Digital bodies¶
Research & Ideation¶
References & Inspiration¶
This project began with a simple but intentional idea: to design and fabricate a low-poly hand model that could serve as both a functional jewelry stand and a decorative object. The core principle guiding this design was utility—creating something I would actually use and keep, rather than producing an object that might eventually end up as waste.
In thinking about how to make this piece more sustainable, I also wanted to explore how I could repurpose leftover 3D filament. My original concept involved melting down filament scraps into flat sheets and then laser-cutting them into the silhouette of a hand. While that process is still in development, I decided to begin by designing and 3D-printing a freestanding hand model to test the concept.
Process and workflow¶
To model and print the hand, I used the Creality Ender 3 V3 KE 3D printer in combination with the Creality Cloud app. My goal was to design a piece that looked sculptural while remaining functional and lightweight. The design needed to showcase jewelry elegantly while also being sturdy enough to stand on its own.
Tools & Materials¶
- 3D Printer: Creality Ender 3 V3 KE
- Software: Creality Cloud
- Filament: Glow-in-the-dark PLA
- Model Source: Modified file from Thingiverse
Version 1: Lightweight Decorative Hand¶
For the first prototype, I began with a hand model sourced from Thingiverse, which I then modified to suit my needs. Since this version was primarily for decorative purposes, I aimed to minimize filament use by setting the infill to 0%, meaning the print would be completely hollow inside.
This setting significantly reduced print time—around 2.5 hours—and resulted in a lightweight model with fine surface detail. Despite the absence of internal structure, the hand was still solid enough to stand upright. The outcome was exactly what I hoped for: a simple, clean form with all the visual detail intact.
Version 2: Hollow but Stronger¶
In the second version, I opted for a more durable model by selecting the “hollow” setting with a 2 mm wall thickness, still keeping the infill at 0%. This increased the print time to approximately 4.5 hours, but the results were worth it.
This hand felt sturdier and more balanced, making it ideal not just as a jewelry holder but also as part of a larger sculptural or seasonal display. The details came out clean and sharp, and the model maintained a lightweight feel despite the added strength.
Display and Uses¶
The printed hands serve multiple purposes:
- Jewelry Stand: Aesthetic and practical, perfect for displaying rings, bracelets, and other accessories.
- Seasonal Decor: For Halloween, I arranged several hands in front of the house, inspired by the supernatural visuals from Stranger Things. Their eerie, sculptural form and soft glow created a dramatic and playful effect.
Looking ahead, I plan to expand the display concept by adding other body parts, such as arms or faces, to create a cohesive and immersive scene. This evolution would blend artistic expression with fabrication skills, exploring the idea of digital bodies as physical storytelling tools.
The Hands: Materials and Visual Effect¶
I chose a glow-in-the-dark filament for these prints, not only for its visual appeal but also because it’s one of the more eco-conscious PLA variants I’ve encountered. It’s important to me that I use this material sparingly and intentionally, making sure to print only items that I’ll keep and reuse.
Due to the settings I selected—particularly the zero infill and thinner walls—the final pieces have a slightly translucent quality. This allows for a soft, ambient glow that’s subtle rather than overwhelming. The result is a gentle luminescence that complements the decorative function without overpowering the design.
Reflection¶
This project was a great opportunity to explore the intersection of digital modeling, functional design, and personal expression. By rethinking how I use leftover materials and emphasizing designs that are meant to last, I was able to create something meaningful and reusable.
It also opened up new ideas around how digitally fabricated body parts can act as both practical tools and aesthetic objects. The success of the hand model has inspired me to continue experimenting with low-poly digital bodies, potentially incorporating movement, lighting, or interaction in future versions.