Everyone wants to display their favorite itemsâ3D prints, toys, collectiblesâbut most of us are fighting an ongoing battle with limited desk and wall space. These hexagonal shelves solve that problem with modular geometry inspired by honeycomb structures.
The hexagonal shape isn't just visually interesting; it's functionally brilliant. Like bees building a hive, you can stack and arrange individual hex modules into countless configurationsâtall towers, wide grids, asymmetric patternsâcreating custom display layouts for desks or walls. Each shelf connects to its neighbors using simple printed connector pieces, and the system scales from a single shelf to elaborate wall installations.
Available in two sizes: a standard version fitting Prusa MK4/Core One build volumes, and a larger version for Prusa XL. Mix and match sizes for even more design possibilities.
Print settings:
Material: PLA or PETG
Perimeters: 4 walls
Infill: 25%
Layer height: 0.2 mm (0.3 mm also works)
Supports: None required
Standard size (MK4/Core One): ~16h 45min, ~279g
Large size (Prusa XL): Print time varies, ~542g
Print as many hexagonal shelf modules as you need for your desired configuration. The simple geometry requires no supports and prints reliably.
Each joint between two hex shelves requires one connector piece. Print connectors using the same settings as the shelvesâthey're small and print quickly (~11-15 minutes each, ~2-5g depending on size).
Connector count planning: Each hex shelf has 6 sides. A shelf connected on 3 sides needs 3 connectors. Plan your layout first to determine how many connectors you'll need.
Connect hex shelves using the printed connector pieces. The connectors snap or press-fit into the hex modules (check the Printables page for specific assembly details for your version).
Experiment with different arrangementsâhorizontal grids, vertical towers, asymmetric patterns. The modular design lets you reconfigure anytime. For wall mounting, ensure proper anchoring for the weight of your displayed items.
Not every project needs to teach complex technical lessons. This one was pure enjoymentâdesigning modular geometry, experimenting with arrangements, and creating something visually interesting for displaying finished prints. Sometimes the lesson is simply that 3D printing can be fun and creative without needing to solve a critical problem.
â
No Problems Encountered
The hexagonal geometry is straightforward to print with no special requirements. The simple shape requires no supports, prints reliably, and the connector pieces work as designed. This project went smoothly from design to assembly.