Printer
Any reliable FDM printer with a build height of at least 105 mm can make the default light. A clean bed and steady upright print matter more than a premium machine.
Printer, plastic, light, slicer.
The project is intentionally printer- and brand-agnostic. These are practical starting points, not purchasing requirements.
Material
White PLA is the easiest starting point. Different brands transmit light differently, so keep a small test print and record the settings that work.
Light
Our usual housing measures 16.5 mm across the slot. Measure your own light with calipers and update Slot width under Advanced settings before printing.
Slicer
Keep the model upright on its adapter base. Start around a 0.16–0.20 mm layer height, use consistent walls, and preview every layer before sending it to the printer.
What we use
Real examples, not requirements.
These links show the parts used for our own lights and one printer and material combination we know. Equivalent compatible products can work.
No affiliate links. No Dark Nights does not earn money or receive commission from any link on this page.
Warm-white C7 / E12 LED bulbs
Use LED bulbs only, follow the light manufacturer’s instructions, and never substitute a hot incandescent bulb.
View example ↗Plug-in night-light modules
These are the 16.5 mm style used for the default slot. Measure your actual housing before making the STL.
View example ↗Bambu Lab A1 mini
An optional beginner-friendly printer example. A compatible printer you already have can work just as well.
View example ↗Bambu PLA Basic
White PLA on a spool is a practical starting material. Other white PLA can work; light transmission varies by brand.
View example ↗Prices and availability change. Measure for compatibility and follow each manufacturer's instructions.
Before a full print
Five-minute fit checklist
- Confirm STL height, width, and slot width in the slicer.
- Check that the model sits flat on the build plate.
- Preview the first layers around the rounded slot.
- Using a new light? Print the three-size Base Fit Finder first.
- Children use 3D printers only with adult supervision.
- Avoid hot and moving parts, allow prints to cool, and follow the printer and material manufacturer's safety and ventilation instructions.
- Use only a commercially manufactured, undamaged LED night-light. Never print or modify electrical components.
- A trusted adult inspects the finished print and plugs in the light.