3D Scanned Tree Trunk Planter Pots

It is possible to use 3D scanning (photogrammetry) and vase mode 3D printing to achieve a real tree texture effect for functional or decorative items. These unique and always original outdoor planter pots can be created just by using a mobile phone camera and free photogrammetry software.

3D Printer - mine was an upgraded Original Prusa I3 MK25S.

Wood or any other 3d printing filament.

0.8mm nozzle - recommended.

50+ images taken by a photo camera or a mobile phone to process them in any photogrammetry software.

I managed to process such complicated meshes successfully with Meshroom (free) and Autodesk ReCAP (paid).

After cleaning the mesh - the fun part starts. It is possible to edit the 3D scan further into many kinds of shapes for functional or decorative uses. This is a screenshot from the Blender, where I turned the Monkey Puzzle tree trunk into a Curved Vase.

Vase mode 3D printing technique is brilliant for such pots. Quick printing and saves material significantly.

0.8mm nozzle handles an exotic material such as wood filament as a Pro (reduces nozzle clogging risk).

Also, parts printed in Vase mode tend to be delicate, but when printed using a wider layer they can be surprisingly durable considering their light weight and thin walls. Check the guide and 3d printing settings with a 0.8mm nozzle.

Plants love this kind of outdoor planter pots. Some of the pots don't have and don't need the holes as excessive water finds the way via 3D print micro holes anyway.

Even though I have a few free and premium files to download on Cults3D, we want to encourage makers to use this idea together with the 3D printing technology to achieve the original and unique results using local trees. If you came up with some original ideas, please contact me and I will be happy to feature the designs in my blog.