Plant Pals
A whimsical collection of 3D-printed plant-inspired companions, each with its own unique personality, function, and design quirks. Designed in Fusion 360 and optimized for FDM 3D printing, these playful pieces were created to bring joy, character, and a touch of storytelling to any space—whether you're a plant parent or just love expressive decor. Each pal features modular parts for easy printing and mixing, and can be assembled or multi-material printed depending on user preference.
All models were built using Fusion 360, where form and function were developed side-by-side. Key goals during the design process included:
- Optimizing for printability: Minimal supports, fast print times, and good bridging tolerance
- Modularity: Parts print separately but interlock snugly
- Playful storytelling: Each design expresses a different vibe or function
- Iterative prototyping: Multiple test prints were done to refine snap fits, rotational joints, and overhangs
This project reflects a deep understanding of 3D design for print, user interaction, and expressive product development.
The very first member of the collection, Plant Pal is where it all began. With stubby legs, a cheerful expression, and a printed succulent top, this pal is a desk buddy that brings a smile to your day. It was designed to print support-free in multiple parts and can be assembled or color-swapped for extra fun. The character-driven silhouette laid the foundation for future pals in the line.
Stumpy is the squat, sturdy sibling of the original Plant Pal—shorter, rounder, and with built-in hidden storage! While still maintaining the same friendly charm, Stumpy offers a functional twist with a hollow body to hold small desk items like paperclips or tiny treasures. Designed for easy printing and minor support usage, Stumpy keeps things tidy while staying cute.
Moody adds interactivity to the mix. With a rotatable pot that reveals either a happy or angry face through a cut-out window, Moody is your desk’s built-in mood indicator. Spin it around to show how you're feeling—whether you're ready to chat or want to be left alone. The spinning pot prints in place (no assembly required for rotation), while the plant top and eyes are printed separately. Modular compatibility with the rest of the Plant Pals lets you swap out tops as you like.
