3d Printed Flextangle

In this project, we’ll be creating a flextangle—a mesmerizing, interactive geometric toy that flexes and rotates to reveal different sides of a repeating pattern. Traditionally made from paper, a flextangle is a fun, hands-on way to explore math, art, and engineering principles in one simple craft.

But we’re going to take it a step further by combining modern technology with this classic craft. In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through the method of using a 3D printer and mesh fabric for a more durable and unique version. If you've done the traditional flextangle, it is the exact same method to build the final product as you do with the paper.

Whether you’re making this for fun, as a gift, or as an educational project, this flextangle will definitely captivate anyone who plays with it! Let’s get started.

- 3D printer

- Mesh fabric

- Flextangle template (used to create an SVG file)

- Tinkercad or similar 3D design software

- 3D printer slicer software

- Magnets (to hold the fabric in place during printing)

- Super glue or E6000

- Scissors or precision cutting tool

- STL File

Begin by converting your flextangle template into an **SVG file**. Import this SVG into Tinkercad (or similar software) and convert it into an **STL file** for 3D printing. I brought the SVG into Silhouette design and traced the lines.

Load the STL file into your slicer software and set up the print, ensuring to add a **pause halfway through** to lay down the mesh fabric.

Begin the 3D printing process. The printer will start by printing the base portion of the flextangle. When the printer is finished, it will pause. At that point, turn off the auxiliary fan to make it easier to lay out the fabric without it flying about.

Once the print pauses, carefully place the mesh fabric over the base layer. Use magnets to secure it flat against the print bed, ensuring it's taut and properly aligned. Keep the magnet for the very edge so that it doesn’t get in the way of the printer extruder.

Resume printing to allow the machine to print the top portion of the flextangle, which will fuse the mesh fabric between the two layers.

After the print is finished, cut the mesh along the edges of the flextangle using scissors or a precision cutting tool, following the printed outline.

Fold along the lines of the 3D-printed structure, using super glue or E6000 to secure the tabs. Ensure the flextangle moves and flexes smoothly.

Fold the template into a cylindrical shape by connecting the ends. Use **super glue** or **E6000** to secure the edges. Be patient as the glue dries to ensure a strong bond. See video below

Fold the inner tabs into place and glue them securely to form the full flextangle shape. Hold the tabs with tape until the glue sets.

Once the glue is fully dry, test your flextangle by twisting it to reveal the different sides. It should move smoothly and flex without resistance.