3D Printed Desktop Neon Signs
How to build customisable 3D Printable Desktop Neon Signs
Neon effect LED signs are popping up everywhere at the moment which is understandable, they look fantastic and are super easy to build at home. So I wanted to design and share some of my own.
These ones can be powered by either a USB cable or 4 'AA' batteries giving you a lot of flexibility for placement. Why not use one to illuminate your next garden or beachside party?
They are also dimmable to help create the right level of ambience for any setting. Use it to help illuminate a room or dial it down for a more subtle addition to your decor.
As for customising? You can print the parts in any rigid filament colour, It’s your choice as well for the colour of Neon effect LED’s used.
There are several ready designed Neon shapes you can choose from and I’ll be adding creating more over time. And if you're comfortable you can edit the design and create something totally unique either for yourself or as a thoughtfully made gift to someone else.
On this page you'll find everything you need to know to be able to build your own. You’ll need a 3D printer and a few basic electronic components. Everything I used is linked to below, and further down have included some helpful tips and an FAQ. Enjoy.
List of items used in this project and where to find them / BOM:
- Neon effect LED strips: https://geni.us/NeonLEDStrip5v
- Resistors 1kΩ (x2): https://geni.us/Ufa2s
- Capacitors 0.1µF (x2): https://geni.us/Capacitor
- Switching Diodes IN4148 (x2): https://geni.us/IN4148-Diode
- Toggle Switch DPDT (x1): https://geni.us/DPDT-Toggle-Switch
- Female USB Socket (x1): https://geni.us/MiniUSBSocket
- 50k Rotary Potentiometer (x1): https://geni.us/Potentiometers
- 555 timer IC (x1): https://geni.us/555Timer
- MOSFET Transistor (IRLB8721PBF) (x1): https://geni.us/IRLB8721PBF
- Bolts (M3x8mm x6): https://geni.us/NutsAndBolts
- AA Battery PCB Mount (x4): https://geni.us/AABatteryPCBMount
- Electrical hook-up wire: https://geni.us/22AWGWire
- Filament: https://geni.us/3DJake (I used PLA)
- Projects PCB:
https://geni.us/DesktopNeonSigns
Downloads:
Please 'like' the model on Printables. It really helps me out. Thank you.
3D models for printing: https://www.printables.com/model/332454-how-to-make-desktop-neon-signs-3d-printable-batter
Additional shapes:
I am also working on some additional shapes which will be available on Etsy over the next few days for just a few pounds/dollars which all goes to help fund the next project.
Etsy shop: www.diymachines.etsy.com
Wiring Diagram:
This is a diagram showing you the same wiring used in the projects PCB. You can use this to create your own circuit on a piece of perforated board or similar if you do not want to use the PCB.

Community:
Discord sever for project: https://discord.gg/VjNdvW9RV6
There is a comments section just below where you can also engage with other makers. However I do find the Discord community more active. :)