I’d like to create a sleek, high‑speed 3D‑printed model of the Five‑Star Red Flag—ideally lightweight and with a dynamic, wind‑blown aesthetic. To maximize print speed, I opted for a minimalist design that can be printed entirely in a horizontal orientation.

1. To achieve this, I experimented with removing the top and bottom walls of the model. My settings were as follows: 50% infill using straight lines, single wall, with top and bottom walls disabled. By eliminating the upper and lower surfaces, the model is left with only a grid of horizontal infill lines—resulting in a remarkably light, flexible structure that also exudes a subtle sense of depth and transparency. The five stars are printed using standard parameters to maintain a striking contrast against the delicate, openwork surface.

I tested infill densities ranging from 15%, 20%, 50%, and 60%, along with standard infill settings—and explored the impact of different printing orientations. After careful evaluation, I settled on the current print file configuration. If you prefer a more solid, less translucent look, you can easily revert to standard parameters within the “Object” settings. I’ve tested this approach, and the resulting prints still turn out beautifully; the flag just ends up a bit stiffer—but even so, it’s still easy to shape using a hot water bottle or cup.

2. For shaping the flag, I recommend using a hot water bottle (hot air or a lighter can be tricky to control). As shown in the GIF or the video below, this method is incredibly intuitive and easy to master. Simply pour hot water—around 70–80°C—into your bottle or cup, taking care not to scald yourself. Use a cup that’s slightly longer than the flag and keep it as vertical as possible. Heat each side alternately, applying gentle pressure while massaging the material, then let it cool down in alternating cycles of heat and cold. With just a few simple steps, you can effortlessly mold the flag into its desired form—perfectly controllable and highly effective.

3. Pay attention to the print orientation: Rotating the model or adjusting its orientation will subtly alter the surface texture. For best results, stick with the default orientation provided in my file.

Wishing all my friends a happy National Day!