Star Trek Rank Pips (TNG & VOY) (Original Size)

thingiverse

These PIPs are as closely based on the Original Pips, as i could. I couldn't find any pips on thingiverse, that are correctly sized. I made two Versions. The TNG Version is 3x8mm, while the VOY Version is 4x8mm. The Pips and the Holder will fit 6x2mm Magnets. The Holder has Holes, so it can be sewed in place. To help with sanding, i designed a little Gadget. The pips will pressure fit onto the Holder, an can than be inserted into a Drill, to make sanding a breeze. If you want to print the Pips, use Treesupports and don't flip them. This should make it easy to clean up. If you can't get the supports out, use a 6mm Drillbit and carfully drill it out. Be sure to print in 0.1mm or even 0.08mm Layerheight, as there is a very small layer seperating the Magnet from the outershell of the TNG Half Pip. The Holder and the Sanding Helper will not need any Supports. To get them painted smoothly, be sure to take your time sanding. If you think you might have sanded enough, sand again. :-) Then paint on filler (e.g. Vallejo Plastic Putty) and sand again. repeat once more. Than spray with Poly-Urethan Surface Primer (Grey), followed by a Layer of GlossVarnish. You can combine this step, if using a Gloss Primer. If you can, use an Airbrush for best results. Next Layer should be a light golden brown, or a golden yellow, followed by (finally) a brass-like Golden Color. You might need 2-3 Layers. Last Layer will be Gloss Varnish. Done. Happy Pip-Printing :-)