Hi everyone,

I got myself a Da Vinci 3d Printer with a 20cmx20cmx20cm build size. I went through my projects over the last few weeks and I see a time where the printer wont be running 24/7 any more. This made me think of starting a larger long term project.

Basically, I was thinking of printing a life size T-Rex Skull and maybe the front part of the skeletton to put up there on my 2 story living room ceiling.

I guess if it was done right, finished to be a smooth surface that is then sprayed to look like white porcelain, it could look quite nice.

Obviously this will take months, but if the printer isnt used.. then why not?

Now I am still quite new to the 2d printing world, and I would appreciate a fet tips form the pro's.

Here are my questions:

1) I have never edited a downloaded STL file. Is this possible in Google sketchup? Any ideas or hints how to cut the model into 18cmx18cmx18cm blocks?

2) How would you design the cuts? just flat surfaces to be glued together or teetch and holes to fit into each other or any other tips?

3) How much material should i cut away when making the cuts between 2 blocks? 2mm? 1mm?

4) the surface must look smooth. Any tips? My idea was to print with ABS and then Acetone-fume it. Or maybe paint with a brush with "ABS-DISSOLVED-IN-ACETONE" Paint. And the spray paint it to be glossy.

5) I only have experience with ABS, though my printer can do PLA. Would PLA have any advantages over ABS I should look into?

6) Any hints how to reduce warping on such large pieces? I fixed it quite well with ABS/Acetone coating the heated print bed to assure adhesion. Any other hints you could recommend?


Thanks a lot!