Apple's Finder vase

About This Design

Remember the friendly face that greets you every time you open Finder on macOS? Now you can bring that iconic smile into your physical space with this two-part vase design!

This print consists of two non-interlocking pieces that recreate the classic Finder icon in 3D form. The design features the signature blue paired with cotton white, and that unmistakable smile that's been part of Mac culture for decades.

⚠ Disclaimer: This is a fan-made design inspired by Apple's Finder icon. I am not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Apple Inc. in any way. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.

Print Details

I printed mine using Polymaker PLA in Blue and Cotton White, which looks stunning with the smooth Polymaker finish. The color combination gives it that classic Mac aesthetic.

Specifications:

• Material: PLA (Polymaker recommended for color accuracy and smooth finish)

• Colors needed: Blue and Cotton White

• Parts: 2 separate pieces

• Supports: CRITICAL - supports are absolutely essential

• Perimeters: 4-5 walls if you want watertight prints

Print Settings for Watertight Results

IMPORTANT - Watertight Configuration:

According to extensive testing by the 3D printing community, achieving watertight PLA prints requires:

• Perimeters/Walls: 4-5 perimeters minimum (this creates a 2-3mm thick wall that prevents leaking)

• Temperature: Increase nozzle temp by 5-10°C above standard PLA settings (around 215-220°C) - this improves layer bonding

• Flow Rate: Consider 105-110% flow for better layer adhesion

• Note: While PLA can hold water, it's hygroscopic and may slowly absorb moisture over extended periods. For long-term water use, consider sealing the interior with epoxy or using this as a decorative piece with a glass insert

My Successful Print Settings:

• Layer Height: 0.20mm (SPEED profile)

• Perimeters: 4-5 walls (essential for watertight function)

• Infill: 15%

• Support Type: Organic supports (highly recommended - see below)

• Support Fill: 15%

• Nozzle: 0.4mm standard

Time Estimates:

• Blue piece: ~4-5 hours

• White piece: ~4-5 hours

• Total: ~8-10 hours

Filament Usage:

• Approximately 110-130g total

Critical Support Instructions

⚠ SUPPORTS ARE FUNDAMENTAL - This cannot be overstated!

The included .3MF file contains pre-painted support areas - use this file to ensure proper support placement.

Support Strategy:

1. Use Organic Supports - Regular grid supports are extremely tedious to remove due to the curved interior shapes. Organic supports conform better to the geometry and are significantly easier to remove without damaging the print.

2. Blue Piece (Front):

   • Orient with flat back against the bed

   • Critical support areas: smile cutout, top overhang, keyhole details

   • The support painting in the .3MF handles this automatically

3. White Piece (Back):

   • MUST be printed upside down on the bed for proper adhesion

   • Even inverted, pay extremely close attention to supports for the top section

   • This orientation is critical for print success

Support Removal Tips:

• Take your time - especially around the smile feature

• Organic supports should peel away more easily than grid supports

• Use flush cutters for any stubborn bits

• Clean up carefully with a hobby knife if needed

Using as a Vase

This design works great as a functional vase!

• The 4-5 perimeter walls make it watertight for fresh flowers

• Can also use a small glass insert for added protection

• Perfect for pens, makeup brushes, or small plants

• That happy face brings joy to any desk or shelf

Happy printing, and enjoy this little piece of Mac nostalgia on your desk! 🍎😊