These snap-together “pods” are derived from the Penrose P3 aperiodic tiling system. The different-sized tabs impose “matching rules” on how they snap together, creating intriguing “random” or fivefold rotational symmetry patterns. See below for more design details.

See here for video: https://youtu.be/_eg1Zbz1M30 

Print the files in “vase” or “spiralized” mode with a bottom. You’ll want to print approximately equal number of “Thick” and “Thin” pieces. The files will work with different nozzle sizes. Using a larger nozzle with result in stiffer walls and a tighter fit.

Mathematician and physicist Roger Penrose investigated aperiodic tiling systems in the 1970s. Aperiodic means that shifting any tiling with these shapes by any finite distance, without rotation, cannot produce the same tiling. However, despite their lack of translational symmetry, Penrose tilings may have both reflection symmetry and fivefold rotational symmetry as see in the photos.

This particular system of aperiodic tiling is known as “P3”. This system uses a pair of rhombuses with equal sides but different angles. The tiles in this system are often referred to as the “Thick Rhomb” and “Think Rhomb.” Ordinary rhombus-shaped tiles can be used to tile the plane periodically, so restrictions must be made on how tiles can be assembled. The matching rules distinguish sides of the tiles, and entail that tiles may be juxtaposed in certain particular ways but not in others.

If a set of pods don’t fit together, it means that the orientation is somehow violating the matching rules. Try rotating or swapping pods, and eventually you’ll find the pattern that works! 


Penrose P3 Pods

Display Do Not Print.stl

This tree-shaped Advent Calendar is designed for spiralized printing to maximize translucency and minimize material and print time.  

See here for video: https://youtu.be/465gKQOovwg 

The “ornaments” are sized to hold standard-sized foil-wrapped chocolate balls (22mm or 7/8 inch diameter). Balls will hold in place on their own or can be enclosed with the “Snapball” pieces. The top of the tree holds a “Large Snapball” that can be filled with Smarties or M&Ms. Use translucent filament to make the treats visible! 

You will need to print one each of the “Trunk” and “Tree Layer” files, two each of the “Tree Topper Snapball” files, and 24 of the “Ornament Snapball” files. 

Here are some recommendations for spiralized printing:
- Use thick layer heights, 0.2mm or greater
- For “Tree Layer” files, set your “Bottom Layer” to “0” so that they print with an open bottom.
- The “Truck” can be printed with or without bottom layers, depending on whether or not you intend to put lighting underneath
- The “Snapball” files can be printed with “0” or “1” bottom layers. 
- Try using a skirt for bed adhesion, but if that is not working then try a brim. You will just have to remove the brim afterwards
- If you get funny stringing on the top layer, try moving the z-seam alignment around or adjusting the layer height slightly

More similar Snapball designs:

Ice Bubbles: https://than.gs/m/960766 

Ornaments:
Vintage: https://than.gs/m/964487 
Textured: https://than.gs/m/970064

Giant Spiralized Sphere: https://than.gs/m/965238


Snapball Advent Calendar

Tree Layer 4.stl

**This 3D design is for personal use only if purchased individually. To obtain the rights for commercial sale, you must join the Commercial Maker Thangs Membership.**

Bring some retro magic to your holidays with this Midcentury Christmas Advent Calendar! With 25 compartments, you can tuck away little surprises—like candies, LEGOs, mini toys, or whatever brings a smile—for each day leading up to Christmas.

I’ve made this design super easy to print and assemble—no AMS needed—so anyone can create it! Whether you’re filling it for the kids (or yourself!) or keeping it as a cherished holiday keepsake, it’s a fun and festive way to countdown to Christmas. 🎄✨

**Quantity of Each Item to Print for Christmas Advent Calendar**
- Type A Shelf Piece: 2
- Type B Shelf Pieces: 3
- Digit 0: 2
- Digit 1: 13
- Digit 2: 9
- Digit 3: 3
- Digits 4-5: 3
- Digits 6-9: 2
- Small Drawers: 25
- Stars: 25

**Optional Components**
C-Clips: 8 (only if using the clipping method for assembly)

**Print Settings**
- I recommend using a brim for large items with corners to prevent warping.
- No supports needed for printing. To see the best printing orientation, check the .3mf file
- 10% infill
- 2-3 walls
- 0.4mm nozzle
- 0.12mm layer height for the drawers and numbers. 0.12mm to 0.2mm for the shelves

**PLA Used:**
Sage Green: https://amzn.to/48t2JK4
Pink: https://amzn.to/3CbNBFa
Teal: https://amzn.to/3YQOtHZ
Coral: https://www.hatchbox3d.com/products/hb-pla-1kg1-75-cor
Peach: https://amzn.to/3UywLqh
Beige: https://amzn.to/3Z4X9dK
Gold: https://amzn.to/48PtDvO
White: https://amzn.to/3CbNBFa

**Watch the assembly here:**
https://youtu.be/xuuoh3vtWnM

Midcentury Christmas Advent Calendar – Easy Holiday Countdown with Candy & Toy Storage

pixelandpapier__xmas_advent__AMS.3mf

pixelandpapier__xmas_advent__drawer.stl

pixelandpapier__xmas_advent__clip.stl

**This 3D design is for personal use only if purchased individually. To obtain the rights for commercial sale, you must join the Commercial Maker Thangs Membership.**

Get ready to celebrate Halloween in retro style with the Halloween Advent Calendar! Designed with a midcentury horror kitsch vibe, this advent calendar is perfect for loading up with your favorite treats—whether it’s candy, spooky trinkets, or other fun surprises. Each day reveals a new delight, making the countdown to Halloween even more exciting!

What’s even better? You don’t have to add numbers if you prefer to use it as a a spooky drawer decor piece!

I’ve put a lot of love into crafting this design, inspired by the bold, nostalgic decor of the past. It’s a fun and unique way to add a touch of vintage charm to your Halloween celebrations!

**Quantity of Each Item to Print for Halloween Advent Calendar**
- Type A Shelf Piece: 1
- Type B Shelf Pieces: 5
- Type C Shelf Piece: 1
- Digit 0: 13
- Digit 1: 14
- Digit 2: 14
- Digit 3: 5
- Digits 4-9: 3
- Small Drawers: 30
- Large Drawer: 1
- Skulls: 31

**Optional Components**
C-Clips: 12 (only if using the clipping method for assembly)

**Print Settings**
- I recommend using a brim for large items with corners to prevent warping.
- No supports needed for printing. To see the best printing orientation, check the .3mf file
- 10% infill
- 2-3 walls
- 0.4mm nozzle
- 0.12mm layer height for the drawers and numbers. 0.12mm to 0.2mm for the shelves

**Assembly**
Watch the assembly here: 
https://youtu.be/JU5uE7ZXDKc

**PLA Used Here:**
Polymaker Peach: https://amzn.to/3ZcBEs6
Polymaker Periwinkle: https://amzn.to/4cQx5ac
Matterhacker Orange: https://www.matterhackers.com/store/l/175mm-pla-filament-orange-1-kg/?aff=7646
Polymaker Muted Red: https://amzn.to/3Za9EVW
Elegoo Black: https://amzn.to/3MwGKIg

Advent Calendar

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Penrose P3 Pods

Snapball Advent Calendar

Midcentury Christmas Advent Calendar – Easy Holiday Countdown with Candy & Toy Storage

Halloween Advent Calendar – Treat Countdown Box or Drawers for Spooky Retro Home Decor