Outdoor Pattern Converted in Luminaria

Recently, while walking through the Parc Floral in Paris, I noticed this architectural pattern. It's made up of numerous openings that allow light to diffuse inside the structure. I wondered what would happen to it if the light came from inside? That's how this project came about.

For this work, the following is needed :

1. Plywood
2. Laser Cut Machine (choose width from 2 to 5 mm)
3. Wood glue
4. Elastic
5. Paint (Optional)

Using your favorite vector graphics editor (Inkscape for example) trace the outlines of the pattern, in other word digitalize the pattern. Output file shall match the laser cut machine specification, in my case I use .dxl extensions.

You will need 4 patterns (size 65mm x 110 mm in my case) to build a complete candle holder, you can also add a base to it (it would be a 65mm x 65mm square for my dimensions, feel free to adapt).

A 3D CAD software (FreeCAD for example) helps me to render the design and to verify everything match together.

/!\ You need to ensure the shape is continuous so it does not fall part once cut in plywood.

Download the file to the laser cut machine (I use the one from a FabLab), dispose plywood and let the machine works ;-)

Gather the 4 sides (and the base if you have one).

Add wood glue to the edge of each pattern and place them so that each edge is joined.

Maintain pressure with a rubber band (or other suitable means) while the glue dries.

After a few hours, the work is finished.

The wood appearance may be good enough. Nevertheless, I choose to paint the whole to emphasis on shape details (similarly to the architecture from where the project originates).

The assembly being made of wood, do not place candle directly inside. Either use LED candle or dispose the candle inside a glass container (Glass yoghurt pot container for example).

Enjoy !