"Penny Pivot" Miniture Painting Handle

NOTE (12/23/2023): After using this handle for a little while I started having issues with the magnets not being strong enough, I'm testing out solutions with other magnet options and will update all models accordingly once I find an acceptable solution. 

I aimed to design a comfortable handle that allows unique orientations for painting detailed models in tricky spots while keeping your hands in comfortable positions. The inspiration for the designs was based on what are currently the more popular handles which either result in a “handle-bar” style shape or a more “stubby” tear-drop style. One of the main features, the magnet, and bearing, which allow for nearly any model position or angle to be achieved was inspired by the Grimm Grip painting handle:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/grimmbrothers/the-original-grimm-gripp

However, I refined the concept by embedding the steel bearing and cup magnets deeper within the handle and base holders for better balance and secure attachment. The design also features a hollow compartment for adding pennies, which I've found to be an effective and economical way to add weight. I was able to include an additional 100g+ of weight for only 46 cents. The added weight assists with tremors, which I suffer from and are not conducive to miniature painting.  The magnets, bearing, and pennies are all meant to be added after the completion of printing to avoid polarization or other potential issues. 

Another design feature that I included which was present in the Grimm Gripp was the magnet at the base of the handle. Much in the same way that it was originally intended, this would offer a “hands-free” solution to holding miniatures and angling them as needed. Just as I added the weight for my tremors, I'm hoping that this feature will help this handle be more inclusive and hopefully help someone continue or improve their painting journey if they struggle with some form of deficit that makes this hobby difficult for them. The model also incorporates a hole so that the provided screws that come with the cup magnets can be used to secure it into the handle. This could not be done with the top magnet as it needs the “cup” for the ball bearing to sit properly. 

Currently, there are two ergonomic designs available as mentioned: a full-sized handlebar and a compact teardrop shape, both available with a ribbed texture for enhanced grip and airflow. I also suggest the use of the "fuzzy skin" option available in most slicers for a more tactile experience. I've been experimenting with it and it has grown on me. The rings located in the top well for the bearing are to include a small amount of glue if you find the magnet comes out if/when you remove the bearing. The rings help regulate any extra adhesive from being pushed out and everywhere over the handle and magnet. 

To cater to different preferences, I've included temporary printable base holders that can be used with poster tack as a non-permanent alternative, allowing users to explore the handle's feel before committing to the magnet or bearing purchases. With various magnetic options, users can choose their preferred method of attaching miniatures, whether through direct magnetization or using a steel mounting plate to prevent polarization issues.

Print Settings:

For optimal assembly tolerances, I recommend a layer height of 0.2mm or finer. I've accounted for a 0.2mm tolerance in the design to ensure compatibility across different printers. A shell thickness of 2-3 perimeters with an infill density of 10-15% is adequate and preferred for added durability and better surface finish. 

Supports:

The designs are optimized for printing with little to no support material. Ribbed handles print flawlessly without support thanks to strategic fillets. Note that using a 'fuzzy skin' setting might result in minor sagging at the base of the stubby version as you can see in the one photo of the light blue handle. Hollow models incorporate a 45-degree taper visible in the previews, eliminating the need for support in the middle. Minimal support is only necessary for the base holders and magnet recesses on handles, which are situated early in the print to reduce overall print time and reduce filament usage.

Available Files:

Files are organized into folders for ease of navigation. Here's what you'll find:

Handle Previews:

• Visual guides for each handle design.

Full Size and Stubby Handles:

• Variants with smooth or ribbed textures.
• Solid or hollow options for adding weight with pennies. Hollow handles feature a lip to prevent over-insertion of cup/ring magnet and to indicate maximum penny capacity.
• Magnet base options for securing the handle during use (Magnetic desk mount forthcoming as mentioned).

Temporary Base Holders:

• A no-commitment trial of the handle with just filament and optional adhesive.
• Currently available in 45mm size.
• Designs with a smooth top, space for a single (15mm x 2mm) magnet, and/or with eight (5mm x 3mm) magnets.

Base Holders:

• Sizes include 30, 45, and some 60mm tops to fit various configurations.
• Smooth top designs, with options for a single (15mm x 2mm) magnet, or multiple (5mm x 3mm) magnets.
• Options to integrate a ring/cup magnet for a flush surface, enabling stronger attachment and compatibility with adhesives like double-sided tape or poster tack in a pinch.

Shopping List / Amazon Links for needed materials.

• Ring/Cup Magnets (20mm x 5mm) (80LB)
• 1-¼ Inch Chrome Steel Ball Bearings
• 15mm x 2mm Magnets
• 5mm X 3mm Magnets
• Adhesive Mounting Plates (Optional for mounting to the base of miniatures)

Final Notes:

This project marks my introduction to CAD design, presenting both a challenge and a great learning experience for the numerous iterations. Your feedback or custom requests, especially regarding magnet size adjustments, are highly welcome. I encourage sharing insights rather than remixing, to help refine the design through feedback from the community. 

The concept of a magnetic desk anchor is in development, with the handle's base magnet being an initial step. Any Ideas or personal solutions would be greatly appreciated as they could help me come up with a “matching” solution. Each situation is different, making it difficult to design a “one size fits most” solution that I hope to achieve. 

Additionally, I want to design and incorporate some kind of hand bar/brace that can be attached/detached while still being sturdy. This is another tremor reduction feature that I am extremely interested in for myself as I'm sure others would appreciate.