Keychains to Print in 3D
by Camilo Ostos in Workshop > 3D Printing
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Keychains to Print in 3D
![13.jpg](/proxy/?url=https://content.instructables.com/F4E/Y73P/LHQAC2G9/F4EY73PLHQAC2G9.jpg&filename=13.jpg)
The process of transforming a two-dimensional image into a three-dimensional model and then bringing it to life through 3D printing is a captivating fusion of creativity, design, and technology. With tools like Tinkercad, the digital image becomes touchable by turning it into a physical object that can be held and admired. From image selection to editing and print preparation, the journey begins. By converting the image to a Tinkercad-compatible format and using the platform's interface, you can manipulate the design, adjust its dimensions, and add geometry to transform it into a 3D model. Finally, with a 3D printer and the right material, the printing process begins, layer by layer, until the object takes shape. The result is a remarkable realization of your imagination, a physical manifestation of your creativity, and a testament to the endless possibilities of 3D printing. Whether for personalized gifts, functional prototypes, or simply exploring your artistic side, the journey of turning an image into a 3D printed model is an exciting and fulfilling experience.
Supplies
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For the process of passing an image to Tinkercad and then 3D printing, you will need the following supplies:
1.Computer: You will need a computer with Internet access and graphics capabilities to run Tinkercad and perform the necessary steps.
2.Image in digital format: You must have a digital image in JPG, PNG or other compatible format. It can be an image that you have created or an image that you have found online.
3.Image-editing software (optional): If you want to make adjustments or edits to the image before converting it to SVG, you'll need image-editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, or Paint.NET. These programs will allow you to make changes such as adjusting the contrast, converting to grayscale, or other necessary adjustments to improve the quality of the 3D print.
4.Image to SVG conversion tool: To convert the image to an SVG format, you can use online tools such as "Convertio" (https://convertio.co/es/) or others available on the Internet. These tools allow you to upload the image and convert it to the SVG format needed by Tinkercad.
5.Tinkercad account: You must have an active account at Tinkercad (https://www.tinkercad.com/) in order to access the platform and carry out the import and 3D design process.
6. 3D Printer: Once you have designed your model in Tinkercad, you will need a 3D printer to turn it into a physical object. Make sure you have access to a 3D printer or have the services of a 3D printing company that can print your design.
7. 3D printing material: Depending on your 3D printer, you will need the appropriate printing material, which is usually PLA or ABS filament. Make sure you have enough material and the desired color to print your model.
Image Preparation
![12.png](/proxy/?url=https://content.instructables.com/FJI/T1VV/LHQAC2B2/FJIT1VVLHQAC2B2.png&filename=12.png)
-Choose an image of your choice and make sure it is an image file in JPG, PNG or another supported format.
-If the image needs any adjustment or editing, you can use image editing software like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, or Paint.NET to make the necessary changes. For example, you can adjust the contrast, convert to grayscale, or do other adjustments for better 3D printing results.
Convert the Image to an SVG File
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-To import the image into Tinkercad, you will need to convert it to an SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) file.
-You can use an online tool like "Convertio" (https://convertio.co/en/) or image editing software that has the ability to save/export in SVG format.
-Upload the image to the conversion tool and select "SVG" as the output format. Then start the conversion and download the resulting SVG file to your computer.
Import the SVG File Into Tinkercad
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-Access your Tinkercad account (if you don't have one, create one for free at https://www.tinkercad.com/).
-Create a new project in Tinkercad or open an existing one where you want to import the image.
-On the top toolbar, select "Import" and choose "Import SVG."
-A pop-up window will open where you can upload the SVG file you previously downloaded. Select the file and click "Open" or "Import."
Adjust Size and Position
![5.png](/proxy/?url=https://content.instructables.com/FT2/SRG6/LHQAC1PV/FT2SRG6LHQAC1PV.png&filename=5.png)
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-After importing the image, you may need to adjust its size and position according to your needs.
-Select the imported image by clicking on it. In the side toolbar you will find options to scale the image and adjust its position in the work area or also when selecting the image you can have several options such as rotate position, edit its shape among others.
Convert the Image to a 3D Object
![8.png](/proxy/?url=https://content.instructables.com/F42/YO8C/LHQAC205/F42YO8CLHQAC205.png&filename=8.png)
![9.png](/proxy/?url=https://content.instructables.com/FY2/HGXD/LHQAC20J/FY2HGXDLHQAC20J.png&filename=9.png)
-Tinkercad treats SVG files as flat objects. If you want to turn the image into a 3D object, you'll need to extrude it or make other changes to give it depth.
-Use Tinkercad tools like "Basic Shapes" or "Holes" to add geometry and turn the image into a three-dimensional object. You can extrude parts of the image or combine it with other shapes to create what you want as it looks.
Final Adjustments and Export:
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![11.png](/proxy/?url=https://content.instructables.com/F8A/F2UB/LHQAC25D/F8AF2UBLHQAC25D.png&filename=11.png)
-Once you've converted the image to a 3D object and are satisfied with the result, make any final adjustments such as rounding corners, adding additional details, etc.
-Verify that the model is the correct size for 3D printing. Adjust the dimensions if necessary.
-When you're ready to print, select "Export" on the top toolbar and choose the appropriate file format for your 3D printer. Common formats are STL, OBJ or GLTF.
Result
![12.jpg](/proxy/?url=https://content.instructables.com/F78/8AM4/LHQAC29M/F788AM4LHQAC29M.jpg&filename=12.jpg)
At the end of this process we would have our figure printed in 3D, ready to use as a key ring, in this way we could create various figures as key rings quickly and easily, having a 3D machine at our disposal and this is a method in which it does not cost so much money to make these objects, having the freedom as we want to design what we want and thanks to technology being able to use and have access to these impressions.