This paper focuses on transparent resin 3D printing in jewelry design. It covers the process from design (concept, CAD modeling) to 3D printing (tech selection, slicing, printing) and post-processing (support removal, sanding, etc.). Tools for hardware and software are introduced. Precautions in design and printing are also discussed to ensure quality jewelry production.
The basic steps of transparent resin 3D printing jewelry design
I. Design phase
Conceptual conception
In the initial stage of designing transparent resin 3D printed jewelry, designers need to have a creative concept. This concept can come from various inspirations, such as natural elements (such as the shape and texture of flowers and leaves), cultural symbols (such as traditional patterns of specific ethnic groups), or architectural structures (such as the aesthetic lines of pointed arches and flying buttresses in Gothic architecture). Designers need to consider the way the jewelry is worn (whether it is a necklace, bracelet, earrings, ring, etc.), the wearer’s style (whether it is simple and fashionable, retro and gorgeous, or avant-garde), and the function of the jewelry (whether it is purely decorative or has some special meaning, such as commemorative).
Computer Aided Design (CAD) Modeling
- Choose CAD software:
There are many CAD software specifically for jewelry design to choose from. For example, Matrix, a popular and efficient tool with an interface designed entirely for professional jewelers, also includes a step-by-step builder for creative exploration. There is also 3D design software with a realistic rendering interface that allows designers to view realistic images of the designed 3D models. After some training, due to its intuitive interface, it is easy to use and can create highly detailed 3D objects, making it very suitable for professional work.
- Building a 3D model:
The designer starts building a 3D model of the jewelry in the selected CAD software. This process requires precise depiction of the shape, size, and details of the jewelry. For transparent resin 3D printed jewelry, special attention needs to be paid to the rationality and aesthetics of the internal structure when modeling because the transparent material will reveal the internal structure. For example, if designing a transparent resin pendant with an internal hollow structure, it is necessary to ensure that the shape of the hollow part and the strength of the connecting part are sufficient to avoid damage during printing or later wearing. At the same time, it is also necessary to consider how to use the characteristics of transparent resin to create unique visual effects, such as increasing light and shadow effects by designing internal textures or refractive surfaces.
- Model optimization:
After the preliminary construction of the model, it is necessary to optimize it. This includes checking whether there are any defects in the model, such as uneven surface and poor connection between model surfaces. It is also necessary to adjust the model according to the requirements of 3D printing, such as adjusting the wall thickness of the model to meet the minimum wall thickness requirements of transparent resin printing. Generally speaking, in order to ensure that printed jewelry has sufficient strength and stability, the wall thickness should not be too thin, and at the same time, it is necessary to avoid problems such as material waste and transparency caused by excessive wall thickness.
II. The preparation stage of 3D printing
Choose 3D printing technology
- Stereolithography (SLA) or Digital Light Processing (DLP):
In transparent resin 3D printing jewelry, stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP) are commonly used techniques. SLA technology scans the liquid photosensitive resin point by point with a laser beam to solidify and shape it. DLP technology uses digital micromirror devices to project light onto the surface of the liquid resin and solidify one layer of resin at a time. Both techniques can achieve high resolution and good surface quality, suitable for making exquisite jewelry models. They can precisely control the degree of solidification of each layer of resin, thereby achieving complex shapes and fine details. For example, when printing a transparent resin ring with fine carvings, SLA or DLP technology can clearly restore the details of the carvings.
- Material preparation:
Choose the appropriate transparent resin material. Transparent resin materials have high transparency characteristics, which can make 3D printed objects almost completely transparent, and have certain strength and toughness to ensure that the printed jewelry has good durability. Different transparent resin materials may have differences in transparency, hardness, flexibility, etc. Designers need to choose according to the design requirements of jewelry. For example, some transparent resins may be more suitable for making bracelet parts that require higher flexibility, while others may be more suitable for making ring parts that require higher hardness.
Model slicing processing
- Slicing software selection:
There are various 3D printing slicing software to choose from. For example, CHITUBOX is a powerful and easy-to-operate photo-curing 3D printing preprocessing software with functions such as automatic layout, model hollowing, hole digging, automatic support generation, anti-aliasing, and tolerance compensation. It is suitable for most common resin printers on the market, with a free Baise version and a paid Pro professional version. There is also Formware, a powerful 3D printing slicing and support generation software that provides rich practical functions for any type of resin (LCD/DLP) printing task. It can be used for free for 30 days, and a paid personal or commercial version can be purchased. LycheeSlicer is also an easy-to-use slicing software with a user-friendly interface. It comes in a free basic version and a paid professional version, suitable for applications in fields such as jewelry.
- Slicing operation:
Import the 3D model built in CAD software into the slicing software. In the slicing software, some printing parameters need to be set, such as layer thickness, printing speed, support structure, etc. Layer thickness will affect the accuracy and speed of printing. Thinner layer thickness can improve accuracy but increase printing time. The printing speed needs to be set according to the curing characteristics of the resin material and the performance of the printer. Too fast speed may cause incomplete resin curing. The setting of the support structure is very important because in the 3D printing process, some overhanging parts or complex structures may need support to print correctly. For transparent resin 3D printed jewelry, the design of the support structure should consider that it is easy to remove later and will not have too much impact on the appearance and transparency of the jewelry.
III. 3D printing stage
Printer Settings
According to the selected 3D printing technology (SLA or DLP) and transparent resin material, make corresponding settings for the 3D printer. This includes adjusting the intensity of the light source (for SLA and DLP, the intensity of the light source will affect the curing speed and effect of the resin), the temperature of the printing platform (appropriate platform temperature helps resin adhesion and molding) and other parameters. For example, if the transparent resin used has better curing effect at lower temperatures, the temperature of the printing platform needs to be set to a lower value.
Start printing
Transfer the sliced file to the 3D printer and start the printing program. During the printing process, the transparent resin solidifies layer by layer according to the shape set by the sliced file under a specific light source. The printer’s nozzle or projection device will accurately solidify the resin into the predetermined shape. This process requires a certain amount of time, which depends on factors such as the complexity, size, and printing parameters of the model. For example, a complex multi-layer transparent resin earring model may take several hours or even days to print.
IV. Post-processing stage
Remove supporting structures (if any).
If a support structure is set up during the printing process, it needs to be removed after printing. For transparent resin 3D printed jewelry, special care should be taken when removing the support structure to avoid scratching or damaging the surface of the jewelry. Special tools such as small cutting knives or forceps can be used to gently separate the support structure from the jewelry model.
Sanding and polishing
In order to improve the transparency and surface smoothness of transparent resin jewelry, sanding and polishing treatments are needed. Sanding can use sandpaper of different particle sizes, gradually transitioning from coarse sandpaper to fine sandpaper to remove surface defects and layers. Polishing can use polishing paste or polishing machine to achieve a mirror effect on the surface. For example, for a transparent resin pendant, after sanding and polishing, its transparency will be greatly improved, which can better show the internal structure and overall beauty.
Other post-processing (such as dyeing, coating, etc., optional)
If the color of transparent resin jewelry needs to be changed, dyeing treatment can be performed. By soaking the jewelry in a specific dye solution or using a spray gun for dyeing, a colored transparent effect can be obtained. In addition, coating treatment can also be performed, such as coating a protective film to increase the wear resistance of the jewelry or coating a metal film to increase its texture.
Transparent resin 3D printing tools for jewelry design
I. hardware tools
3D printer
- SLA or DLP 3D printer:
In transparent resin 3D printing jewelry design, SLA (stereolithography) or DLP (digital light processing) 3D printers are key equipment. SLA printers use precisely controlled laser beams to scan liquid photosensitive resin, causing the resin to solidify layer by layer according to the preset model shape. DLP printers use digital micromirror devices to project light onto the surface of liquid resin, solidifying one layer of resin at a time, and their printing speed is relatively fast. The printing platform of these printers needs to be able to precisely control the height to ensure that the thickness of each layer of resin is uniform, thereby ensuring printing quality.
- Computer:
Used for running CAD software for jewelry model design and slicing software for model slicing processing. The performance requirements of the computer depend on the complexity of the model and the requirements of the software. Generally, sufficient memory (such as 16GB or more), a fast processor (such as Intel Core i7 or higher performance processor), and a dedicated graphics card (for some CAD and slicing software that require high graphics processing) are required to ensure the smoothness of software operation. When processing complex jewelry 3D models, a high-performance computer can improve the efficiency of design and slicing, and reduce waiting time.
Post-processing tools
- Sanding tools:
Sandpaper is the most basic polishing tool. For transparent resin 3D printing jewelry, different particle sizes of sandpaper need to be used, such as starting from 100 mesh for initial removal of larger flaws and layering, and gradually transitioning to sandpaper with 1000 mesh or even higher mesh to obtain a smooth surface. In addition, small polishing machines, such as mini handheld polishing machines, can also be used, which can provide more uniform polishing force and are suitable for processing jewelry with complex shapes. For example, when polishing a transparent resin bracelet with a curved shape, the handheld polishing machine can more conveniently polish along the curve.
- Polishing tools:
Polishing paste is a commonly used polishing material. It can be applied to a soft cloth or a dedicated polishing wheel, and then polished on the surface of the jewelry. For some small transparent resin jewelry, a miniature polishing machine can also be used, which can provide a high-speed rotating polishing wheel to improve polishing efficiency. For example, when polishing a transparent resin ring, using a miniature polishing machine can quickly polish the ring surface to a mirror effect.
- Support removal tool:
If a support structure is set up during the printing process, some tools need to be used to remove the support. A small cutting knife can be used to cut the thicker support part, and forceps can be used to clamp and remove the smaller support residue. These tools need to be operated accurately to avoid damage to the jewelry surface. For example, when removing the support structure of a transparent resin earring, first cut the main support column with a cutting knife, and then clean the remaining small support part with forceps.
II. Software tools
CAD software
- Matrix：
Matrix is a CAD software specifically designed for jewelry, widely used in the jewelry industry. Its interface is designed for professional jewelers and has many functions suitable for jewelry design. For example, it has a dedicated step-by-step builder, which facilitates designers to gradually build jewelry models. When designing transparent resin 3D printed jewelry, designers can use this function to start from the basic shape and gradually add details, such as the structure of inlaid gems, surface texture, etc. It can also easily adjust parameters such as jewelry size and proportion, and support export in multiple file formats for subsequent 3D printing operations.
- Rhino：
Rhino is a universal 3D modeling software that also has important applications in the field of jewelry design. It has powerful modeling functions and can create various complex geometric shapes. In transparent resin 3D printing jewelry design, Rhino’s universal modeling tools can convert designers’ creativity into 3D models. For example, designers can use Rhino’s curve drawing and surface modeling functions to build unique transparent resin jewelry shapes. It also supports various rendering plugins, such as V-Ray and KeyShot, through which designers can view the rendering effect of jewelry, simulate different transparency, light refraction and other effects, and better optimize the design. In addition, Rhino can seamlessly integrate into every step of the jewelry manufacturing and 3D printing process, supporting the output of precise geometric shapes for manufacturing, exporting 2D drawings and renders, and creating 3D STL files for printing on 3D printers.
Slicing software
- CHITUBOX：
CHITUBOX is a light-curing 3D printing preprocessing software with powerful functions and simple operation. It has automatic layout function, which can automatically optimize the position of the model on the printing platform and improve printing efficiency. Model hollowing and hollowing functions help reduce the use of printing materials and reduce costs. The automatic generation support function can automatically add suitable support structures according to the shape of the model, reducing the workload of designers. In addition, it also has functions such as anti-aliasing and tolerance compensation, which can improve printing quality. For transparent resin 3D printing jewelry, these functions can ensure accurate printing of jewelry models and make it easier to perform post-processing after printing.
- LycheeSlicer：
LycheeSlicer is an easy-to-use slicing software with a user-friendly interface. It comes in a free basic version and a paid professional version. The paid professional version has resin compensation, 3D hollowing, and variable layer enhancement functions. In transparent resin 3D printing jewelry design, the variable layer height function can set different layer thicknesses according to different parts of the jewelry model. For example, a thinner layer thickness can be set for the details of the jewelry to improve accuracy, while a thicker layer thickness can be set for some non-critical parts to speed up printing. It also supports common resin 3D printers, such as Anycubic Photon S, and is suitable for applications in jewelry and other fields.
Transparent resin 3D printing jewelry design precautions
I. the design aspect
Structural rationality
When designing transparent resin 3D printed jewelry, the rationality of the structure is crucial. Due to the characteristics of transparent resin materials, the internal structure directly affects the appearance and strength of the jewelry. For example, when designing complex hollow structures, it is necessary to ensure that there are enough connecting parts between the structures to ensure overall stability. If designing a transparent resin earring with a large number of slender lines and holes, the connection points between these lines and holes need to be strong enough to prevent breakage during wearing. At the same time, for jewelry with multi-layer structures, the bonding and support relationships between layers should be considered to avoid layer separation.
Consideration of transparency effects
Transparency is an important characteristic of transparent resin, which should be fully utilized in design to create unique visual effects. Different internal shapes and textures can be designed to change the refraction and reflection of light. For example, designing a spiral texture inside a transparent resin pendant will produce a unique light and shadow effect when light passes through. In addition, the influence of external shapes on transparency should be considered to avoid designing overly complex external contours that affect the overall transparency, and try to maintain a smooth and flat surface to reduce light scattering.
Wall thickness setting
The setting of wall thickness directly affects the strength and transparency of transparent resin 3D printed jewelry. If the wall thickness is too thin, the jewelry may deform during the printing process or be easily damaged when worn later; if the wall thickness is too thick, not only will it waste materials, but it may also affect transparency. Generally speaking, depending on the shape and function of the jewelry, the wall thickness needs to be within a certain reasonable range. For example, for small transparent resin earrings, the wall thickness can be relatively thin, but it should also be ensured to be around 0.4-0.6mm; while for larger transparent resin necklace pendants, the wall thickness may need to be appropriately increased to about 0.6-1mm to ensure sufficient strength.
II. 3D Printing
Print parameter adjustment
- Layer thickness:
Layer thickness is a key parameter in 3D printing. For transparent resin 3D printed jewelry, a thinner layer thickness can improve printing accuracy, make the jewelry surface smoother, and thus increase transparency. However, a thinner layer thickness can also increase printing time. For example, when the layer thickness is reduced from 0.1mm to 0.05mm, the printing time may double. Therefore, it is necessary to choose the appropriate layer thickness according to the design requirements of the jewelry and the balance between accuracy and time. Generally speaking, for jewelry details that require high precision, a thinner layer thickness, such as 0.05-0.1mm, can be used; while for some non-critical parts, the layer thickness can be appropriately increased to 0.1-0.2mm.
- Print speed:
The printing speed needs to match the curing characteristics of the resin. If the printing speed is too fast, the resin may not cure sufficiently, resulting in defects in the printed jewelry, such as uneven surfaces or loose internal structures. Different transparent resin materials have different curing speed requirements, and it is necessary to understand the recommended printing speed range of the resin used before printing. For example, some high-performance transparent resins may allow relatively fast printing speeds, but ordinary transparent resins may require slower printing speeds to ensure curing quality.
- Support structure:
The design of the support structure is very important for transparent resin 3D printing jewelry. When setting up the support structure, the ease of removal of the support structure and its impact on the appearance of the jewelry should be considered. Overly complex or difficult-to-remove support structures may leave marks on the surface of the jewelry, affecting transparency and aesthetics. At the same time, the layout of the support structure should be reasonable, which can effectively support the hanging parts and complex structures, but cannot excessively increase the use of materials. For example, when printing a transparent resin ring with protruding parts, the support structure should be set as much as possible inside the ring or in a concealed part that does not affect the appearance.
Resin material property adaptation
Different transparent resin materials have different characteristics, such as transparency, hardness, flexibility, etc. In the 3D printing process, printing parameters need to be adjusted according to these characteristics. For example, transparent resins with higher hardness may require higher light intensity to cure, while transparent resins with better flexibility may require slower printing speed to ensure shape accuracy. In addition, the storage and use conditions of transparent resin materials also need to be noted. Generally speaking, transparent resins need to be stored in a dark and dry environment, and need to be fully stirred before use to ensure print quality.
