Model revisited in 2026:
new universal print profile
simplified instructions
improved gear identification
Have this mesmerizing print as a novelty decoration and a conversation piece. No glue or extra parts needed.
Printing settings
This model is organized into 5 print plates to simplify printing, color planning and assembly.
Using the provided print profile is recommended. All settings, brims and orientations are already optimized to keep parts stable and ensure a clean result.
If printing manually, most parts work well with:
0.2 mm layer height
3 walls
Lightning infill
No supports
The dome and base print better using ~5% gyroid infill with the seam positioned at the back, improving structural stability.
The dome was designed to bridge cleanly and does not require supports.
Tentacles can optionally be printed in vase/spiral mode if you want to minimize visible seam lines.
Print Plates Overview
Plate 1 — Base Structure
Base shell, lid and crank housing. Using a contrasting color helps visually separate the base from the jelly.Plate 2 — Base Drive System
Internal gears and mechanical components inside the base. Light colors work well if using a translucent base.Plate 3 — Jelly Body
Dome, tentacle mounts and visible jelly parts. Translucent or silk filaments create the best underwater effect.Plate 4 — Jelly Gear Core
Internal gears that drive the jelly mechanism.Plate 5 — Central Column
Connects the jelly to the base. Transparent filament creates the best floating effect.
Assembling
Important Notes
The jelly mechanism uses two types of gears and tentacles.
See the diagram below for a visual guide.
4 Internal parts (I)
8 External parts (O)
Each gear and tentacle is marked with I or O for easy identification.
Gears only fit correctly in their intended position:
Internal gears (I) go on the inner ring
External gears (O) go on the outer ring
Tentacles can technically fit in any slot, but the intended visual effect is achieved using:
4 internal tentacles (I)
8 external tentacles (O)
Commercial License & More Benefits:
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Description
Jellyfish Swimming, a mechanical interactive art for the "Mechanical Marvels" contest.
Have this mesmerizing print on your desk or in your living room as a novelty decoration and a conversation piece.
No glue or extra parts needed, just print and play.
Check the new SpongeBob Jellyfish MOD
All my designs are protected by Copyright Law. When you purchase, you do not have the right to sell any digital file or printed model of my designs without my consent.
Please help support the creative work of each 3D artist and never share or sell a digital file.
Jellyfish Swimming - Mechanical Interactive Art
by jajaum3d · original on Printables ↗
Art & Design / Other Art & Designs
♥ 3.3k⬇ 7.3k🖨 139 prints
Print profiles
Plate2_BaseDrive.stl
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Plate5_CentralColumn.stl
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Plate1_BaseStructure.stlDEFAULT
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Plate3_JellyBody.stl
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Plate4_JellyGears.stl
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Axle.stl
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CrankAxle.stl
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CrankHandle.stl
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CrankAxleGear.stl
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CrankLock.stl
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AxleBaseGear.stl
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DomeUnder.stl
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ExternalTentacle.stl
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DomeRing.stl
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InternalTentacle.stl
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Dome.stl
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BaseLid.stl
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InternalGear.stl
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Base.stl
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CenterGear.stl
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GearsBase.stl
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ExternalGear.stl
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JellyFish - BambuStudio.3mf
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