A typical slicer mode for “aesthetic prints” is vase mode. Follow along as we explain how to make some seamless models using Cura Vase Mode.
Ultimaker’s Cura continues to be the preferred option among the multiple slicers on the market today. It has several useful features and is free and generally simple to use. One of these features is “Spiralize Outer Contour” in Cura, commonly known as “vase mode.”
In this mode, a 3D printer uses a single, continuous line to print only the outermost surfaces of your model (in the horizontal directions). Vase mode cannot be used for all models, even though this results in a rapid print with very little material. The name “vase mode” means that it works best with non-functional models with a continuous cross-section and no holes or gaps in their geometry.
Explore this outstanding feature to learn how to use Cura Vase Mode!
What Is Cura Vase Mode?
The nozzle will continuously outline your model’s contour in a spiral when “Spiralize Outer Contour” is activated after applying the bottom layers. This continuous printing means that, unlike the typical printing modes, the Z-axis is constantly moving, and the filament is fed through continuously rather than laying down a layer at a time. As a result, the model has a wall that is only one layer thick; there are, in essence, no separable layers.
Vase mode is typically used for aesthetic purposes only because of the single-line wall. It is frequently used to demonstrate 3D printing because of the printer’s smooth, continuous motion, which can be beautiful and even hypnotic. Although some designs can give your shape more rigidity, prints are typically not strong.
Usage of Cura Vase Mode
This setting can be found in Cura’s “Special Modes” tab. Simply check the box to make it active. Once activated, load a model with continuous geometry, typically a cylinder or vase-shaped object. Cura will set up the object with a solid bottom, a single wall, and no top surface when you press the slice button.
Advantages of Cura Vase Mode
- There are no travels or retractions. A long, uninterrupted string of filament turned on top creates the object.
- Saves both time and money. This mode is so named because it is appropriate for models with a continuous cross-section with no holes or gaps in the geometry.
Disadvantages of Cura Vase Mode
- The nozzle follows a single continuous path, so you can only load one model at a time.
- Vase mode is picky about models. Even some models that appear compatible with vase mode will collapse because they cannot support themselves. After all, prints come out quite flimsy.
What can you print, then? The preferred approach is using straightforward, non-operational models constantly curving or altering outer surfaces. People also enjoy using it for lighting, mainly lamp covers and shades. The walls tend to let a lot of light through because they are so thin.
You’d be surprised how many objects can be created using the vase mode, including pyramids, rockets, bins, sculptures, and vases. Also, keep in mind that there are no restrictions on the materials you can use; TPU, PLA, ABS, and PETG are all excellent choices for vase mode.
Cura Vase Mode Settings to Tweak
Let’s look at the settings now that you know how vase mode operates in case you need to make any adjustments to get the best results.
Cura Vase Mode – Wall line width
The wall width affects the model’s rigidity and durability when printing objects in vase mode. The most significant line width you can usually select is equal to the nozzle’s diameter. For instance, the largest line a 0.4-mm nozzle can extrude is 0.4 mm wide. But by choosing a higher extrusion temperature and a slower extrusion speed, you can get a thicker line with a smaller nozzle. But for the best result, we recommend using a larger nozzle if you want the line thicker.
As in the previous example, you can achieve a line thickness of about 0.6 mm with a 0.4-mm nozzle by raising the temperature by five degrees and choosing a speed between 25 and 30 mm per second (or lower).
Cura Vase Mode – Temperature
Regardless of the mode, setting the ideal temperature for 3D printing can be difficult. It is advised when using vase mode to set a higher temperature initially, then to decrease it by about ten degrees after extruding the first solid layers.
For instance, you could set the temperature at 230 °C and then reduce it to 220 °C after about two minutes. The initial increase in temperature aids in forming the bed’s solid layer. The filament is then cooled more quickly at a slightly lower temperature to prevent the filament wall from losing its shape or folding in on itself.
You should experiment with small pieces to find the best temperature range for you because determining the temperature is not an exact science and depends on the nozzle size and type of filament.
Cura Vase Mode – Speed
The printing speed must be slow to extrude in the vase mode correctly. This permits cooling of the filament before the laying out of new filament.
There is no exact science for determining how fast or slow you should set the speed, just like with the temperature. Printing speed should be standard, as the first layers are printed during the initial extrusion stage.
Your Cura speed setting should be 100% when you open it. Reduce the speed setting to 50% when changing the temperature setting. As mentioned above, you can increase the filament thickness by using a smaller nozzle by selecting a printing speed of 25 to 30 mm per second.
Once more, you can start using these settings. You should always experiment using your tools and materials to determine the sweet spot. Just keep in mind that changing one setting might require changing other settings as well because each parameter has the potential to impact others.
FAQ – Cura Vase Mode
How do you waterproof a 3D printed vase?
The most straightforward and user-friendly way to create a waterproof vase is to use clear acrylic varnish. Spray the model several times inside and outside, then let it dry. You can purchase matte and glossy acrylic varnish at your typical hardware or hobby store. Remember that we don’t advise using acrylic varnish to create models suitable for food use. In these situations, we recommend using certified food-grade epoxy resin or selecting a different technique for surface processing.
How do I enable vase mode, Cura?
How do you use Cura Vase Mode only for 3D printing vases?
Let us know in the comments below or on our Facebook page to let us know your ideas, and we would appreciate seeing pictures of your works of art!
