100% 3D Printed Hex Tie

thingiverse

This is a variant of my hex tie that does not require thread to string the hexes together. Instead, the hexes are connected via 3d printed snap-on clips. Like the original, the goal is to make a tie that drapes like cloth, yet is 3d printed. Instructions The clips and hexes work well in both ABS or PLA and are optimized for .2 or .4mm layer height. The clips should always be printed sideways (as per the STL) to maximize flexibility. You can use a few in a different color to make the tie more interesting (see photo). Figure out how many hexes you will need by measuring your desired tie length and deciding on the pattern (e.g. middle column of 18, 2 side columns of 10, and 2 edge columns of 3 full hexes, plus half hexes on top of each side & edge column as in the photo). Each hex is 24mm tall and the links are oriented so the top/bottom of the hex will be a flat side rather than a point. If you use my tie design, a 44cm tie will use about 44 hexes, 6 half hexes, 10 third hexes (optionally), and more than 100 clips, just for the tie. The neck band will probably be ~18 links and 34 clips. Of course, you can make your own pattern using the full, half, and third hex pieces. [UPDATE: the last picture I uploaded shows a thinner variant that uses 16 half hexes and 28 full hexes, not including the clasp. If you don't want that fat 70's tie look, you might prefer this design instead of the one described above.] Once you have printed the hex pieces, lay them out and snap the clips on. It works best if you slide the clip onto the flat part of the hex from the side, and then push them sideways over the cylindrical part, rather than trying to pop them straight over the cylinder. They should snap into place and turn freely. The top link of the tie should have the hex column acetoned/glued to the middle of it, facing out, and oriented the same way as the hex (flat side down, points to the side). To put on the tie, push one side of the neck band (ie, the clasp) over the hex column. It should angle up and to the side. Place the band around your neck, and push the other side of the neck band over the hex column. The tie cover snaps on last.