April 5, 2018

3D Printed Swimbait Minnow

STL files for this design are available on Printables and can be found HERE.

This is another swimbait I am working on using the same fabric printing as my last swimbait. This one was done in Onshape and is modeled after a rubber minnow swimbait so it only has three sections.

The process is the same I start by printing a the first layer and then pausing the print.

For this one though I am using a fiberglass woven window screen material for its strength. I hoping to be able to add more than one hook to the designs in the future and not have to worry about a fish tearing the lure in half.  This screen is thicker than the tulle I used last time so I start the first two layers at .20 height so the nozzle doesn’t drag across it.  I like to lay the fabric out with a diagonal cross pattern to the weave as I think it makes for a stronger finished hinge.

Here the second layer is laying down pretty well.  (these pictures are from my first try using this screen material.)

After the second layer was complete I switched to a .10 layer height to get a better detail and smoother body shape.

Also on this lure I only printed one half on the screen. The second half will come out as individual pieces and be glue on separately.  I didn’t think it would be flexible enough with two pieces of screen.

I used my thinner motorcycle safety wire on this as the bends are tight. I only used 2 BB’s for weight this time also.

The finished lure ready for testing. I have tested it and it did work I just need to add some paint now.

I only did a quick paint job on this one and I’m not sure how it’s going to hold up overall because I couldn’t seal the entire lure, I had to keep the epoxy away from the joints so I’m sure it’s not totally waterproof.

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