This is my non professional approach to extend 3D printing for myself to create metal objects using the “lost PLA” method.

I try to write up the way which worked for me, including the objects I used for printing.

This is not intended for direct replicating; if you choose to do so, do it responsibly and at your own risk!

I skip steps which are obvious if you already know how to melt and pour aluminum; I try to outline what I had to learn.

1: print the models attached in PLA; only 1 perimeter and 5% infill

2: glue together with hotglue, like shown in 3D screenshot

pouring basin is inspired by this thing from VegOilGuy:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3619744

3: add drinking straws as vents, like you can see in the image of the cast incl. sprue

4: paint on thin layer of watery plaster mix and let dry for better detail reproduction

5: pour plaster for with 50:50 plaster and sand mix for better thermal and structural stability

6: let dry over night

7: burn – out – process; what I gathered from instructables and youtube video…

2h @ 100°C

1h @ 200°C

2h @ 450°C

…worked for me.

8: …melting aluminum and pouring it…

since I have only one diy electric kiln which I had to use for burn out of plaster and melting of aluminum: probably the plaster form was too cold when pouring, which resulted in “almost incomplete” filling when you look at the vents.

Think I was just lucky 😉

Even if I’m a couple of years late with a fidget spinner: no sharp corners, somewhat even cross – sections were just a good starting point for lost PLA 🙂