In the past, my foldable designs explored a different side of 3D printing - instead of only thinking about rigid materials, I focused on flexibility and used elastic properties to create new structural ideas. Over time, those folding designs found their place and became something of their own category.

So I started looking for a new direction. This time, I pushed things further by fully embracing extremely soft materials.

That’s how the Squeaker Duck was born. 

This project came with two major challenges.

1. Printing very soft material in a controlled shape
Soft materials are tricky. Because they’re flexible, they can get dragged by the nozzle during printing or curl as they cool. To solve this, I designed an internal structure that helps the form hold its shape during the printing process.

However, that same structure made the duck harder to squeeze - which is a big problem for something that’s supposed to make a squeaking sound when pressed.

In the end, I developed a form that stays stable during printing but becomes very easy to deform once the print is finished.

2. Designing an effective squeaker
I had made squeaker mechanisms before, but they required a large airflow and were very small, which made them difficult to print unless you had a highly precise 3D printer.

So I redesigned the squeaker to

Produce sound with a much smaller airflow
Be large enough to print reliably, even on less specialized printers

Printing Guidelines
To successfully print the Squeaker Duck, please keep the following in mind:

1. Use TPU 95A filament.
64D is not soft enough and may not compress well. If you use other flexible filaments, make sure they are truly soft and elastic.

2. Check your slicer settings for flexible filament.
Incorrect settings can lead to poor print quality. While settings vary by brand, key factors are:
Very slow print speeds
Nozzle temperatures around 220 - 230

3. Be careful when printing the squeaker reed.
The reed is very thin and may not print well on textured beds. When removing it from the bed, take care not to bend or warp it, as this can affect the sound quality.

4. Pay attention to the reed’s orientation during assembly.
Insert it carefully in the correct direction, and use a tool to gently push it fully into place.

For more detailed instructions, please check the video guide.

I hope this new challenge in my 3D printing journey brings a fresh wave of creative exploration!

Largest part in printing, size = X 63mm, Y 84mm, Z 102mm, After full assembly size = X 63mm, Y 91mm, Z 102mm

Total Build Time : 15h / Plastic Weight : 40g

Squeaker_Duck_rubber_toy

GOODesign_Squeaker_Duck.stl

The updated ITALIC V2 is an eccentric watering can featuring a playful skewed profile. The original ITALIC has been refined for improved functionality whilst maintaining the iconic shape.


**_Printing Guidelines_**

The walls of this container are 1.2 mm thick, and only the handle portion is solid. I suggest printing with a high wall count (5+) to ensure that the thin handle won't snap off.  You also need to ensure that your printer can create watertight models, otherwise this won't be quite as useful.

My settings:
- 0.16 mm layer height
-5 perimeters
- 20% Gyroid infill
- 10mm brim (or use the 'wBrim' version)

Download includes a 'wBrim' version with minimal supports since the handle is unsupported for much of the print, as well as a version of just the watering can. I managed printing the unsupported version with a 10mm brim, using ASA.


---

Photographed model was printed using [QIDI ASA Green](https://qidi3d.com/products/qidi-asa-filament?variant=41725687496844&sca_ref=6089281.BQS8d0sJuF) ([Amazon](https://amzn.to/3HK5pK6)) on the [Qidi Plus4 3D Printer](https://qidi3d.com/products/plus4-3d-printer?sca_ref=6089281.BQS8d0sJuF) (Also [on Amazon](https://amzn.to/4jON7VK)). 

ITALIC V2 Watering Can

ITALIC_V2_wBrim.stl

[_**V2 is now available HERE**_](https://than.gs/m/1377006?affiliateCode=MAKE)

ITALIC is an eccentric watering can featuring a playful skewed profile. The enclosed container is filled through an opening in the top of the handle, which can also be covered with your thumb while pouring to regulate flow. Like any good fancy designer product, it's slightly awkward to hold. How will you pick it up? :P

**_Printing Guidelines_**

The walls of this container are 1.2 mm thick, and only the handle portion is solid. I suggest printing with a high wall count (5+) to ensure that the thin handle won't snap off.  You also need to ensure that your printer can create watertight models, otherwise this won't be quite as useful. I used default print settings on my Bambu Lab X1-Carbon with ABS and it worked out!

Download includes a version with minimal supports since the handle is unsupported for much of the print, as well as a version of just the watering can. In either case, I would suggest a substantial brim to help with bed adhesion. 

--- 

Photographed models were printed on the [Bambu Lab X1-Carbon 3D Printer](https://bit.ly/MA_X1C) using [Bambu Lab Mint ABS](https://bit.ly/bamFIL).*
*_These affiliate links give me a commission on sales at no additional cost to you. Thanks for supporting Make Anything!_


ITALIC (V1) Watering Can

ITALIC_can_supported.stl

Pool Noodle Sword - Waved Gem

**Added R2 model which includes new sword and insert. I increased the depth of the threads into the helm which adds significant strength. **

If the kids are playing in the pool or running around in the backyard, this pool noodle sword will elevate their sword game! These work with a small pool noodle with a 1” (25mm) hole. Designed to be printed helm down (sword) and threads up (insert) they easily thread together so you can get your battle time going! The pool noodle fits snugly onto the insert so it doesn’t come off during your duels! 

Printing Directions:
**Outer layers > 3
Infill > 50%**

These need strength. The connection between the helm and the insert is a breaking point if you go light on layers and infill. Also, try to keep the blade (noodle) to 12 – 16”. Longer blades add more stress when the kids actually hit something. 

Make sure to check out the other swords! 

**Private Use Only.**

**Become a Maker Member for unlimited downloads or become a MERCHANT MEMBER for commercial use. **

Members get priority recommendations and customization. We would love for you to join!
Make sure to like and follow. Post your make so we can see!

Pool Noodle Sword - Waved Gem

Waved Gem.stl

**Added R2 model which includes new sword and insert. I increased the depth of the threads into the helm which adds significant strength. **

If the kids are playing in the pool or running around in the backyard, this pool noodle sword will elevate their sword game! These work with a small pool noodle with a 1” (25mm) hole. Designed to be printed helm down (sword) and threads up (insert) they easily thread together so you can get your battle time going! The pool noodle fits snugly onto the insert so it doesn’t come off during your duels! 
Printing Directions:
**Outer layers > 3
Infill > 50%**
These need strength. The connection between the helm and the insert is a breaking point if you go light on layers and infill. Also, try to keep the blade (noodle) to 12 – 16”. Longer blades add more stress when the kids actually hit something. 
Make sure to check out the other swords and the SHIELD KIT! 
**Private Use Only.
Become a Maker Member for unlimited downloads or become a MERCHANT MEMBER for commercial use. **
Members get priority recommendations and customization. We would love for you to join!
Make sure to like and follow. Post your make so we can see!

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Squeaker_Duck_rubber_toy

ITALIC V2 Watering Can

ITALIC (V1) Watering Can

Pool Noodle Sword - Waved Gem

Pool Noodle Sword - Spanish Guard