For my Lantern Project I decided to make a disco ball type shape. The technical term for this shape is a dodecahedron which is made up of 12 pentagon shaped tiles. The design of the cutouts on each pentagon was mostly random, but constrained with lots of geometry based off of the pentagon shape. I have a few options for how I want to light this, but once I figure that out I will change the base plate to accommodate the lighting and wiring.
What type of light are you planning on using? (Multicolor lights or just a basic color light?)
There are these really cool light bulbs that put off light that looks like a flame. I am planning on buying one of those for my lantern.
Are you planning on hanging your lantern or having it sit on a table?
I am going to have the base of my light fully enclosed within the lantern. This will allow me to have it in either orientation. I’m not too sure which one I want to do yet. I think once I see it I’ll know what I prefer.
This design is very intricate. The shadows produced will definitely look cool. What kind of lighting method do you plan to use?
Thank you! There are these really cool light bulbs that put off light that looks like a flame. I am planning on buying one of those for my lantern.
how did you make this design? this is a very cool design and looks to be computer generated but am interested to learn how you created such a unique design
I used the Boxes.py link to design the outer shell of the lantern. I wanted to be make a somewhat round shape so I picked the dodecahedron. Once the program generated the dxf, I brought it into AutoCAD and drew the cutout pattern onto the pentagon. I started this design off with a blank slate and just sort of started connecting lines together. For example, I connected the point of the pentagon to the center of the opposite line. I kept using this pattern until shapes started appearing.
What made you decide to do this shape?
I was originally going for a disco ball type theme. I wanted to find something close to round. I found this shape very appealing so I chose that. I have not drifted away from the “disco” theme but am still happy with the shape.
What material do you plan to use?
I am using 1/8th inch plywood. I feel the most comfortable with this material and it will also be the lightest option. If I want to hang it from a ceiling, weight needs to be a consideration.
How do you plan to affix all of the pieces, glue or press fit only?
I plan on using wood glue for the final assembly, but also have the finger joints very close to a press fit for added strength.
Are you planning to include cardstock or acrylic in the holes or will you be able to see inside the lantern to the bulb? What colors are you planning to include for lighting?
I want to wait and see how everything looks once it is complete, but I may have something on the back of each panel to diffuse the light. I am going to use a single bulb inside that looks like a flame.
Is your intent to project shadows onto the walls of a room with this? i ask because I think that would look very complex in a good way and I am interested in seeing it.