The Nautical Rainbow - Chuông gió

The Nautical Rainbow is a kinetic art piece designed to bring color and movement to any space. Inspired by a classic ship’s wheel, this wind chime features a series of cascading paddles that dance in the breeze.

The assembly uses a "notch and lock" system: the paddles hang from the outer spokes of the wheel via integrated notches, while the main suspension lines are anchored inside the central hub using hidden beads.

Technical Details

• Support-Free: This model is optimized for 3D printing from the ground up—no messy overhangs or wasted material.

• Refined Aesthetics: To elevate the final look, I used multicolored embroidery threads that match the colors of each individual paddle, creating a seamless gradient effect. Fishing line or nylon thread work as well. Keep your thread width under 3mm.

• Integrated Hardware: The top strings that form the hanging loop are secured inside the wheel using small printable beads (included), ensuring a clean finish at the top of the chime.

• A Rewarding Project: While the number of components makes this a longer print, the assembly is straightforward and the final visual impact is well worth the time on the bed.

Important Material Note Please keep in mind that PLA is not UV resistant. While it is perfect for brightening up a porch or sunroom, it may warp or become brittle if left in direct, harsh sunlight for extended periods. For long-term outdoor use in high-heat areas, consider using PETG or ASA, or keep your PLA version in a shaded, covered spot to preserve its vibrant colors.

Printed Parts needed

• 21 coloured petal paddles, 3 per colour if you are going for the rainbow version

• 1 wheel, the base of the chimes

• 8 small beads and 1 large

• 1 clapper and 1 petal paddle in your wheel colour

Extra part:  the knotty but nice model for a secure top (link below)

Hardware

• thinner than 3mm thread or fishing line 

• Nimble fingers to tie 50+ knots (child labour is frowned upon)

Print Settings

• Brim: Required for the small string-locking beads to ensure they stay adhered to the bed.

• Supports: None.

• Infill: 10–20% (Lighter paddles react better to soft breezes).

Assembly Instructions

1. Prepare the Outer Paddles Tie matching embroidery thread(or thread of choice) to each individual paddle. Secure the free ends by looping them into the notches located on the outer spokes of the whee.

2. Install the Main Suspension

• Feed seven threads through the holes in the very center of the wheel hub.

• Anchor these threads underneath the wheel using seven of the small printed beads and knots to prevent them from pulling through.

• Gather these seven threads above the wheel and tie them into a loop for hanging. or use the Knotty-but nice model by @Noodle_4123306

3. Assemble the Center Line

• Feed an eighth thread through the center hole of the wheel.

• Secure this thread on top of the wheel using the largest printed bead.

• Slide the clapper (circular disc) onto the thread hanging below the wheel.

• Secure the clapper from underneath using the 8th small bead to lock it in place and prevent it from sliding down.

• Attach the middle paddle (teardrop shape) to the very end of this center thread.

THAT'S IT! 

It wasn't that hard now was it?

P.S  the petal paddles are the exact same found in my other model "petals adrift", that one is a way faster no support model if long printing times are not your thing.

---