Simple Christmas Tree Decor

These trees have a minimalist and modern design with simple shapes. The trees have a geometric look, mostly based on triangles. They fit well with any type of decor. The trees add contrast and interest to rooms without being too overwhelming or distracting. Because the trees are designed to be able to scale to different sizes, you can choose different sizes and filament colors to create your own forest. While these trees are perfect for decorating your desk, shelf, window sill, or any other place you want to add some holiday cheer, they also make great gifts, centerpieces, or favors for your holiday parties. These trees are sure to be very poplar and make your guests pine fir them.

My original design was simple trees, but my mom wanted to see how the trees would look with four sides. So I ended up making the additional insert that slides into the existing flat tree to change the look to a thicker design. I did sign the insert to intentionally have a good amount of tolerance. This way it would stay in place once it's all set up, but without the possibility of scratching the surface of the main print. I prefer the flat look, while she prefers the thicker look. This additional piece gives the option to change it up and easily customize the tree’s design based on personal preference.

I printed mine in PETG filament, but any type of filament will work perfectly. I also used this project to test out a P-flat sheet to create holographic effects on 3d printed objects. They work by transferring fine patterns to the flat bottom layer of the printed object. I chose to get one on Aliexpress that had a colorful, sparkly, and circular appearance because I thought that would mimic ornaments well. You need to have a really smooth first layer for the pattern to show. I found for me, the best way was to print my first layer at half the speed I normally would. I found that the pattern would show more printing slower versus printing normally. I also needed to be very careful about touching the surface that it was printed on because any fingerprints (and the oils that come with them) would take away the pattern. I found you can refresh the pattern a bit with eyeglass wipes. I needed to have the correct lighting in the perfect angle to see the pattern, so it wasn't nearly as bold as I was expecting. Beyond the pattern, these sheets make an exceptionally flat layer. It gives a very smooth and glossy finish.