Rainy Day Coaster Set

Have you ever looked at a simple object and thought, "I wish this was more unique and eye-catching"? That was exactly my thought when I decided to create a water drop coaster and cloud stand. I wanted to transform a mundane item into something that not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a touch of whimsy to any space.

The idea came to me one rainy afternoon. As I watched raindrops sliding down my windowpane, I was inspired by their graceful shapes. I imagined capturing that fluid, delicate form and turning it into a coaster—something that could bring a bit of that rainy day charm to everyday life. And what better way to complement it than with a cloud stand that echoes the soft, dreamy quality of those rainy moments?

So, I set out to design and create this water drop coaster and cloud stand, aiming to bring a little piece of that inspiration into a functional and decorative form. In this Instructable, I’ll walk you through the steps of making these unique pieces, from sketching and 3D printing to the final touches that make them stand out. Whether you're looking to brighten up your own space or create a special gift, I hope you find this project as enjoyable and rewarding as I did.

1. 3D Printer:

• A 3D printer capable of handling your chosen filament (e.g., Creality CR-10 SE).

2. Filament:

• Blue PLA Filament: For printing the water drop coaster.
• White PLA Filament: For printing the cloud stand.

3. Fusion 360 Software:

• For designing the 3D models of the water drop coaster and cloud stand.

4. 3D Printing Software:

• Software like Cura or PrusaSlicer for slicing the models and preparing them for printing.

5. Tools for Post-Processing:

• Cutter or Pliers: For removing any support material from the cloud stand.
• Sandpaper (Optional): For smoothing out any rough edges on the printed parts.

These supplies will help you complete the water drop coaster and cloud stand project.

1. Open Fusion 360:

• I start by launching Fusion 360 on my computer and opening a new design workspace.

2. Create a New Sketch:

• I click on the "Create Sketch" button.
• I choose the top plane to draw my water drop.

3. Draw the Water Drop Shape:

• Using the "Line" tool, I draw a vertical line for the center axis of my water drop.
• Then, I switch to the "Arc" tool to create the curved sides of the water drop, making sure both sides are symmetrical along the center axis.
• I close the shape by connecting the bottom ends of the arcs with a horizontal line.

4. Extrude the Water Drop:

• I select the water drop sketch I just created.
• I click on the "Extrude" tool and a dialog box appears.
• I enter the thickness I want for my coaster, typically around 5-10mm.
• I click "OK" to complete the extrusion.

1. Create a New Sketch on the Top of the Water Drop:

• I select the top face of the extruded water drop model.
• I click on "Create Sketch" and choose the top face as the plane for the new sketch.

2. Draw the Slot for the Glass:

• Using the "Circle" tool, I draw a circle with a diameter of 70mm on the top face of the water drop. This size is generally suitable for most glassware.
• I center the circle on the water drop shape to ensure it’s positioned correctly.

3. Extrude the Slot:

• I select the circle sketch.
• I click on the "Extrude" tool and set the extrusion distance to 2mm. I make sure to select the "Cut" option to remove material from the water drop.

Now, the water drop shape is ready. The STL file for the water drop coaster is given below.

1. Create a New Sketch for the Cloud Stand:

• I open Fusion 360 and create a new sketch, selecting the appropriate plane for my stand.

2. Import a Canvas for the Cloud Shape:

• I use the "Insert Canvas" tool to import an image of a cloud, which I’ll use as a reference.
• I adjust the size and position of the canvas until it fits well within my sketch area.

3. Draw the Cloud Shape:

• Using the "Circle" tool, I draw several overlapping circles to outline the shape of a cloud.
• I trim any excess lines to create a smooth cloud outline.

4. Add the Coaster Holder:

• On the same sketch, I draw an inverted semicircle slightly larger than the bottom part of the water drop coaster. This will act as the holder to keep the coaster in place.
• I make sure this semicircle is centered horizontally and positioned at the bottom of the cloud shape.

5. Add the Base Thickness:

• I draw a parallel line 5mm above the base line of the cloud shape. This line will define the thickness of the base of the stand.

6. Finish the Sketch:

• Once I’m satisfied with the cloud shape, coaster holder, and base thickness, I click "Finish Sketch" to exit the sketch mode.

Now, the sketch for the cloud stand is ready. This includes a cloud shape, an inverted semicircle holder to prevent the coaster from falling, and a base thickness line for stability.

1. Extrude the Whole Sketch:

• I select the entire sketch (cloud shape, coaster holder, and base line).
• I click on the "Extrude" tool and enter a distance of 50mm.
• I confirm the extrusion, creating the initial 3D shape of the stand.

2. Cut Out the Coaster Holder:

• I select the whole sketch again, except for the 5mm base line, side boundary and holder.
• I use the "Extrude" tool again, but this time I set the distance to cut at 45mm.
• I make sure to select the option to cut material instead of adding it. This creates a cutout for the coaster holder and forms one side and the base of the stand.

3. Extrude the Second Side:

• I select the entire sketch once more.
• I use the "Extrude" tool and set the distance to 5mm.
• I confirm the extrusion to create the second side of the stand, completing the overall shape.

Now, the cloud stand is fully extruded with a 50mm thickness, a 45mm cutout for the coaster holder, and an additional 5mm extrusion for the second side.

1. Create a New Sketch on the Side:

• I select the side of the stand where there is no cloud shape.
• I click on "Create Sketch" and choose the side face as the plane for the new sketch.

2. Draw the Curve Boundary:

• Using the "Arc" tool, I draw a curve along the boundary formed by the previous extrusions.
• I ensure the arc starts from one edge of the side face and curves smoothly across to the other edge.
• I close the top of the arc with a horizontal line to form a complete closed shape.

3. Extrude the Curve Cutout:

• I select the curved boundary I just sketched.
• I click on the "Extrude" tool and set the distance to cut through the entire thickness of the stand (50mm).
• I make sure to select the option to cut material, creating a curved cutout on both sides of the stand.

Now, the stand is ready with a cute curve design on both sides. The STL file for the cloud stand is provided below.

Print the Water Drop Coaster:

• I upload the STL file for the water drop coaster to my 3D printer software.
• I choose blue filament for this print.
• I set the slicing settings as follows:
• Layer Height: 3 mm
• Infill Density: 100%
• Print Speed: 100 mm/s
• I print the coaster and make six copies to create six sets of pairs.

Print the Cloud Stand:

• I switch to white filament and upload the STL file for the cloud stand to my 3D printer software.
• I adjust the slicing settings for the stand:
• Layer Height: 2 mm
• Infill Density:20%
• Print Speed: 100 mm/s
• Support: Include
• I print the stand.

Remove Support Pads:

• I carefully inspect the cloud stand for any support material left from the print. Since the cloud shape is curved, there might be small support pads on the sides.
• Using a cutter or pliers, I gently remove the support pads from both sides of the stand.

Optional Sanding:

• I check the stand for any rough edges or uneven surfaces. If needed, I use sandpaper to smooth out these areas.
• I sand the surface lightly to achieve a clean and polished look. This step is optional but can improve the finish of the stand.

1. Decorate:

• I can add decorative elements to the cloud stand or the coaster if desired. This might include painting, adding decals, or applying a clear coat for extra shine.

2. Use the Coaster:

• I place the completed coaster and stand on a table or desk. The coaster is now ready to be used for holding cups or glasses.

3. Display or Gift:

• I can display the finished coaster and stand in my home or office. Alternatively, I can gift it to someone as a unique and functional piece.

The water drop coaster and cloud stand are now ready for practical use or display. Enjoy your custom creation!

As an extra touch to complement your water drop coaster and cloud stand, I created a charming mini drop keychain. This little accessory is not only a cute addition to your keys but also a lovely reminder of your creative project. The mini drop keychain mimics the elegant shape of the coaster, scaled down to a perfect size for carrying with you. It's easy to make and adds a personal, handcrafted flair to your everyday items. Whether you keep it for yourself or gift it to someone special, this mini drop keychain is sure to bring a smile to anyone's face.

The STL file for the mini drop keychain is provided below.

With the water drop coaster and cloud stand completed, I now have a stylish and functional addition to my home decor. The coaster adds a unique touch to any tabletop, while the cloud stand provides a charming and supportive base. Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful gift, this project combines creativity and practicality, making it a delightful centerpiece or accessory.

Enjoy your custom coaster and stand!