Creepy Christmas Projects | 3D Print & Paint Your Own Horror Ornaments
This fun and creepy Christmas project involves 3D printing and painting horror Christmas ornaments (3D .stl files provided) that can be used for decorating a Christmas tree, as a gift, or as a keepsake. These creepy ornaments can be printed in any size and painted in any color of your choice, depending on personal preference.
Provided you already have a 3D printer, this is a fun and very inexpensive project for the whole family! Before you know it you will find yourself obsessively checking on your printer's progress in printing the next horrific ornament.
Materials:
- 3D Printer
- PLA Filament
- Ornament Hooks
- String for Hanging the Ornaments
- Cheap Acrylic Paints
- Paint Brushes
We have provided a few ornaments 3D files for your selection. Holiday Chills has provided three unique and original designs; a zombie nutcracker, a two-faced short-fused pup (rotatable head), and an evil candy cane looking for some sweet revenge. Choose your favorite horror ornament or print all three! Use the following links to download the 3D files from Thingiverse.
Steps:
- Use slicing software such as Cura or PrusaSlicer to prepare the STL file for printing, setting the appropriate printing parameters such as layer height, infill, and support structures.
- Print the ornament: Load the prepared file into the 3D printer and print the ornament. This may take a few hours depending on your chosen print size and settings for the design.
- Post-processing: Once the ornament is printed, remove any support structures if necessary and clean up any rough edges using sandpaper or a file. Add a hook or string to the ornament for hanging.
- Paint the ornament: Use your acrylic paints to make your unique as your imagination. It's best to paint your ornament in a few stages/layers which will allow one color/layer to dry completely before painting near it or over it with another color.
- Add finishing touches such as glitter, or other decorations to customize the ornament further. A spray can of clear coat can give your ornament a more finished, glossy, appearance.
After your ornaments are printed and painted (also dry) it's time to place them! Displaying these horror ornaments can be a fun and spooky way to add character to your home. Here are some tips on how to display them effectively:
- Create a theme: Think about the overall atmosphere you want to create. Do you want to go for a haunted house look or a more subtle creepy vibe? Choose ornaments that fit the theme and arrange them accordingly.
- Use lighting: Lighting can enhance the mood of your display. Use dim lighting or colored lights to create an eerie effect. You can also use candles or string lights to add a flickering effect.
- Consider placement: Think about where you want to place your ornaments. Try to position them in unexpected places, such as on bookshelves, mantelpieces, or hanging from the ceiling. You can also group them together for a more impactful display.
- Add texture: Consider adding texture to your display. Use materials such as cobwebs, moss, or dried leaves to create an eerie atmosphere.
- Don't overdo it: While it can be tempting to go all-out with your creepy ornaments, be mindful of not overcrowding your space. Too many ornaments in one area can look cluttered and overwhelming.
This project can be a fun and creative way to create unique horror-themed Christmas ornaments that can be cherished for years to come. With a 3D printer and some creativity, the possibilities are endless. Caution: 3D printing can be addictive. Before you know it, you'll be printing every creepy thing you can find a model for! Don't be surprised if you start dreaming about 3D printing more and more spooky and creepy creatures. Remember to take breaks, stretch your legs, and interact with the non-3D printed world from time to time.