How to Make a Lithophane Model

A lithophane presents a three-dimensional image – completely different from two dimensional engravings and daguerreotypes that are "flat". The images change characteristics depending on the light source behind them. Window lithophane panel scenes change throughout the day depending on the amount of sunlight. The varying lightsource is what makes lithophanes more interesting to the viewer than two-dimensional pictures

One way to generate the lithophane model is to use Adobe Photoshop CC. But if you’re looking to keep things simple, you can also use an online tool.

Method 1: Create a Model Using Photoshop

Ever since Photoshop CS5, Adobe has been adding features to work with 3D elements in Photoshop. These features often help with turning 2D objects into 3D, which our action set will be using to produce a lithophane. To get started, download the “Make lithophane” action set from this link. Once you’ve downloaded it, drag and drop the .atn file onto your Photoshop window to install it.

Then, do the following:

1. Open your photo with Photoshop.
2. Go to the Window menu and check Actions (or press Alt+F9) for the actions tool to pop open.
3. In the Make Lithophane folder, choose the action and click the play icon beneath.

Photoshop will now go through a series of actions (adding texture maps, etc.) to create your 3D lithophane. When it’s done you should be able to see your lithophane.

Noe that the whole process is based on Photoshop guessing the right depth, which it does based on the difference in contrast. Therefore, pictures with sharper contrast will likely yield better results.

The action will take some time, ultimately depending on your system spec, and Photoshop might be unusable during the process. In order to avoid the software crashing, be patient and don’t click on anything during this time.

for more detail go to this link

Method 2: Create a Model Using an Online Tool

If you’d rather not use Photoshop, here’s an alternative method

1.    Head on over to 3DP Rocks.

2.    Click on the Images tab and then upload your image.

3.    Once you return to the Model tab, you’ll notice your lithophane is almost ready. You can choose different shapes for your lithophane.

4.    Tweak the settings until you’re satisfied with the result.

5.    Finally, click “Download” in the Model tab.

Once you do that, your browser will download the STL file and you’re ready to proceed!

Printing

As with any other model, printing should be simple. No extra settings are required, but there are few tips to keep in mind:

·        If you’re going to print your lithophane vertically, it’s best to set the layer height as low as possible.

·        Since we want all the details, it’s better if you don’t print at high speed. Try to keep it lower than 2000 mm/min.

·        Setting the infill to 100% will let the light do its trick better.

·        Don’t use transparent filaments.