3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a process of creating three-dimensional objects from a digital file. It involves laying down successive layers of material until the object is formed. This technology allows for the creation of complex shapes and designs that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with traditional manufacturing methods.

3D printing with rainbow filament creates products that are unique each time due to the filament's gradient colour transitions. Here's a closer look at why this happens:

Gradient Colour Change

Rainbow filament is designed with multiple colours that transition smoothly from one to another along the length of the filament. As the 3D printer uses this filament, it follows the natural progression of these colours. The exact point at which a colour transition happens depends on how much filament has been used and where the transition starts within the roll.

Print Variation

The model being printed and the amount of filament required for each layer will determine how frequently the colours change. Smaller prints might not use enough filament to pass through all the colours, while larger prints will showcase a more complete gradient. Even printing the same model multiple times can result in different appearances because of where the print starts in the filament's colour gradient.

Layer Heights and Colour Distribution

Different layer heights can also impact how the colours are distributed. Thicker layers will use more filament per layer, potentially speeding up the colour transition, while thinner layers use less filament and may show more gradual colour changes.

Filament Position

Each spool of rainbow filament can start with a different colour, meaning each print begins with a different part of the colour gradient. This adds another level of randomness, making each 3D printed item with rainbow filament one-of-a-kind.

Essentially, the unique combination of the filament's colour transitions, the model's size and shape, layer height, and the filament's starting point make each rainbow-coloured 3D printed product truly special.

Dual-colour and tri-colour filaments add a dynamic layer to 3D printing by introducing multiple hues into a single print. Here’s how they work:

Dual-Colour Filaments

• Composition: Dual-colour filaments are created by combining two different colours into a single strand. This can be done by splicing two filaments together or by manufacturing a strand that alternates between colours.
• Printing Process: During printing, the filament transitions between the two colours along its length. Depending on where the transition occurs, different colour effects can be achieved. Printers extrude these colours sequentially or next to each other, creating complex patterns and gradients.
• Effects: As the printer layers the filament, you'll see either sharp contrasts or smooth blends, depending on the print's size and the filament's design.

Tri-Colour Filaments

• Composition: Tri-colour filaments consist of three different colours blended into one strand. This makes them ideal for creating more vibrant and intricate designs.
• Printing Process: Like dual-colour filaments, the transitions between the three colours occur naturally as the filament is extruded. Tri-colour filaments typically offer even more variation and complexity in the colour patterns.
• Effects: The three colours can create multi-layered gradients and distinct sections of colour, resulting in an even more unique and visually appealing final product.

How Prints Appear Different from Various Angles

The unique combination of colours in dual and tri-colour filaments means that prints can look different depending on the viewing angle:

• Colour Transitions: As the angle changes, the way light interacts with the different colours can make certain hues more prominent. This can create a dynamic look where the colours seem to shift and change.
• Gradient and Pattern Variations: The varying angles highlight different parts of the gradient or pattern, enhancing the visual complexity of the print. This can make the print appear to have a different colour distribution from various perspectives.

Printing Mechanism

• Layer Heights: Different layer heights in 3D printing can significantly influence the appearance of the colours. Thicker layers will change colours more quickly, while thinner layers provide a more gradual transition.
• Extrusion Paths: The printer’s path also affects how the colours are laid down. Intricate paths can result in a more varied colour pattern, while straightforward paths may show more consistent transitions.

Filament Positioning

• Starting Point: Each spool starts with a different colour sequence, meaning every print can begin with a different part of the colour gradient. This ensures that even prints of the same model can look different depending on where the filament starts in its colour sequence.

These processes together make dual and tri-colour filament use in 3D printing an exciting way to produce unique, multicoloured objects that look different from various angles.

Yes, you can have any of our products printed in different colours. When making a purchase just select custom colour and leave us a order note in the cart with your colour preferences, and we'll be happy to accommodate your request. Take a look at colours avalible here. Once we have comfirmed your colours, give us 2-4 days to print your new friend.

Please note that colours may not always be accurate because each item is printed individually, and filaments may have slight variances.

Purge models in 3D printing are created to clear or purge the nozzle of a 3D printer between colour changes. These models can end up with unique, multi-coloured patterns because they use leftover filaments. This means each purge model is one-of-a-kind, with a blend of colours that you won't find in regular, single-colour prints. The randomness of the colour combinations adds a special touch, making each piece uniquely beautiful and unpredictable! Additionally, using purge models helps reduce waste by repurposing material that would otherwise be discarded, making the printing process more environmentally friendly.

We strive to use eco-friendly materials and processes in our 3D printing. Our products are made from biodegradable PLA plastic, which is derived from renewable resources.

Shipping Information for New Zealand Customers

We’ve partnered with NZ Post and Pass the Parcel to provide fast and reliable delivery for our New Zealand customers.

For Upper North Island customers, we offer standard overnight shipping. For Lower North Island and South Island customers ordering filament, we provide a more cost-effective 2-3 day economy option.

Please note that rural deliveries may take a few extra days to arrive due to extended transit times.

Shipping Information for Australian Customers

Standard delivery times using AusPost to Australia are dependent on your region. The current standard delivery times for orders In Stock with MJ Prints using Australia Post are as follows:

Queensland (QLD): 4-7 business days
New South Wales (NSW): 4-8 business days
Australian Capital Territory (ACT): 4-8 business days
Victoria (VIC): 6-9 business days
South Australia (SA): 7-10 business days
Tasmania (TAS), Western Australia (WA): 8-10 business days
Northern Territory (NT): 10-13 business days