Memories in Light - Suprise box!

Memories in Light – A Valentine’s Day Gift - Customizable

After the overwhelming support for my previous design, I wanted to take things to the next level and create something even more memorable. The result? A unique gift box that transforms into an elegant table lamp – illuminated with your own cherished memories.

Start by gifting it as a beautiful box, perhaps filled with something special, or use the included rose design to make it truly romantic. When the lid is lifted, the lithophane photos are revealed. Hold them up with light behind them to truly bring your memories to life. But the magic doesn’t stop there – the photos can then be assembled into a table lamp, a glowing reminder of your most treasured moments.

Perfect for Valentine’s Day or any special occasion, this gift highlights not only your memories but also the love and care you’ve put into creating it. A thoughtful, personal present as unique as your story.

Let your memories shine brightly – for your special someone or just for yourself.

Instructions for Creating Your Lithophane Images

1. Visit ItsLitho
   Begin by visiting www.itslitho.com and selecting Get Started. You’ll land in the Model section, but switch to Upload first to upload your images one at a time for simplicity.
2. Image Details
   The images used in my model are 1200x1600/1599 pixels, taken with an iPhone. Using similar dimensions ensures optimal results.
3. Editing Your Images
   Once your image is uploaded and visible, go to the Edit tab. You’ll see your image on the right. Note: Only work on one image at a time to prevent merging.
   • My Recommended Settings:
     • Contrast: 0.24
     • Crop Width: 2-98%
     • Crop Height: 2-98%

4. Adjusting the Model
   After editing, proceed to the Model tab. To ensure your lithophane fits perfectly into the frame, use these settings:

   • Shape Options:
     • Width: 105mm (Height auto-adjusts to ~139.9mm)
     • Max Thickness: 4mm
   • Frame Options:
     • Select Border and enable Advanced settings.
     • Check Left and Right under Frame Options.
     • Set Thickness to 4mm.

   Note: Original image size and aspect ratio impact cropping. My dimensions ensure consistent results.

5. Download Your Lithophane
   When finished, click Download in the bottom-right corner. Choose Lithophane from the options to download your lithophane as an STL file.
6. Repeat for Additional Images
   Repeat these steps for three more images, as the box holds four lithophanes.

7. Prepare for Printing
   Once you have four STL files, open them in Bambu Studio. For optimized settings, download one of my sample lithophanes, import your images into the same session, and then delete my file.

   • Printing Settings:
     • Layer Height: 0.20mm
     • Printer: Bambu Lab X1C
     • Profile: Standard @BBL
     • Enable supports for build plate adhesion.

   Note: Printing all four lithophanes together at maximum quality takes approximately 24–29 hours.

Step 2: Printing the Base Plate and Frames

After completing your lithophanes, print the base plate and frames. Here are my recommendations:

• 0.16mm Optimal @BBL X1C: ~8 hours
• 0.12mm High Quality @BBL X1C: ~17 hours
• 0.20mm Standard @BBL X1C: ~10 hours

Choose the setting that fits your time and quality preferences.

Assembling the Base and Frames

1. Attach Frames to the Base Plate
   Snap the four picture frames into the base plate using the secure snap-on mechanism. Handle carefully to avoid damage.
2. Insert the Lithophanes
   • Place the lithophanes into the frames.
   • For gifting: Insert the images facing inward to preserve the surprise.
   • (Optional): Assemble the included rose and stem and place them inside the box for an elegant touch.
3. Close the Box
   • Hold the assembled box carefully.
   • Attach the lid by aligning one side and working towards the other.
   • Tight margins ensure a perfect fit—patience is key.
4. Finishing Touches
   • Add the ribbon to complete your gift box!

Tips for a Memorable Presentation

• Surprise Element: Fill the box with candy or small surprises that spill out when opened. After the reveal, highlight the lithophanes’ uniqueness.

Step 3: Create the Lamp

• Flip the lithophanes outward to let the light shine through.
• Use the open lid to allow light to flow freely into the room.
• Attach your chosen lamp feet by sliding them into the grooves at the base. (Choose from seven included options!)
• Insert the lamp (designed for Bambu Lab’s LED Lamp Kit) into the cylinder-shaped section of the box. Feed the cable through the provided hole.

With these steps, your gift box transforms into a beautiful lamp showcasing your cherished memories!


Pro Tips for Success

• Fine-Tuning Fit: Be prepared to use a small cutting tool or sandpaper. Even with precision printers, small tolerances can sometimes make parts fit tightly.
• Patience is Key: Start this project well in advance, allowing plenty of time to work through each step without rushing.
• Cooling Matters: Always let your printed parts cool completely on the build plate, and if possible, leave them to cool inside the printer. This minimizes the risk of warping and ensures perfect results. (This is the method I’ve used for all my prints!)