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Make a cone lampshade lithophane

Wrap a photo around a tapered lampshade: set a smaller top diameter than the base and the shade narrows as it rises (make them equal and you get a cylinder). Choose the height and how far round the photo goes, from a curved panel to a full shade.

The inside stays smooth and the photo relief sits on the outside. Add an engraved or raised name or date that wraps with the photo, then preview it in 3D and download the STL, a print-ready 3MF or a matching base or lid. It is free with an account: register free, then build, preview and download, with a few downloads a day; Supporters download without a daily limit.

Tips for a good print

  • Print it upright, wide end down, as it is modelled. A gentle taper supports itself; keep the lean modest if your printer struggles with overhangs.
  • Use 100 % infill, a 0.10 mm layer height (0.08 mm for the finest detail), a slow speed of about 30 to 40 mm/s and the fan at 100 %. Any gap in the infill lets light leak through unevenly. The full table is in the guide.
  • Light it with a cool LED, never a hot bulb: PLA softens at about 60 °C.

Frequently asked questions

What is a cone lithophane?

A lithophane shaped like a tapered lampshade, wider at the bottom than the top, so it sits over a light like a classic shade.

How much taper can I use?

Any top diameter smaller than the base, but a steep taper leans the wall over as it prints. A gentle taper prints cleanly without supports.

Does a cone lithophane need supports?

Printed upright with the wide end down, the wall leans only slightly and supports itself.

What infill and layer height should I use?

Use 100 % infill, a 0.10 mm layer height (0.08 mm for the finest detail), a slow speed of about 30 to 40 mm/s and the fan at 100 %. Any gap in the infill lets light leak through unevenly. The full table is in the guide.