Atomic Desk Toy – Spinning Atom Pencil Holder

Finally, an atom you can manipulate without needing a particle accelerator.

This spinning atom started as a variation of the atom I designed for a cat treat dispenser. People kept playing with the prototypes on my desk, so I decided to make a version designed specifically for that purpose.

The nucleus body and lid are aligned so that if you print with a multicolor filament, the pattern will line up once the model is assembled. They're also threaded, so you can hide something small inside if you wish :) 

Some light assembly is required, though no tools are needed. I find supergluing the feet to the base helps with long term stability, but isn't strictly necessary.

There are three base options to choose from:

• A tray for pencils or small desk items.
• A blank base
• A decorative base featuring 3D renderings of the atomic s, p, and d orbitals

There are risers included to have the atom stand higher, but they're optional. I have also included an option for if you want the atom without a base. Note that it won't spin anymore, but use the shorter axis pieces if that's what you want.

Printing notes for the orbital base:

• Allow the print to cool completely before removing it from the build plate to help prevent warping.
• The included print profile contains a pause so you can swap filament and print the orbitals in a different color.

Remixes and improvements are always welcome! Science progresses by building on other people’s ideas. If you print one, I’d love to see how it turned out!