Right Angle Scraper Spatula (for Cleaning Bird Feeder Tray)

UDPATE (2025-01-30):     After using my original design for a few years, I found that the handles for these tools are a bit too small (hard to hold), and too thin (not strong enough). I redesigned them and made an “XL” version with the following changes:

• The handle dimensions are 120mm x 20mm (as opposed to the original 80mm x 15mm).
• The depth of the cutaway or indentation for the handle has reduced by 1mm.
• The thickness of the tool has been increased from 4mm max. thickness of the “Rigid" version, to 5mm max thickness.

This new XL model has the same three blade widths (15, 22, & 29mm). This new design should make it easier to scrape away debris that has built up. Unless one is desperately trying to save on filament, the new XL version is the recommended design for most people. I use the 15 & 22mm blade versions for my feeder depending on what I am trying to clean.

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ORIGINAL DESCRIPTION:

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This is a simple right-angle scraping tool for cleaning debris out of the bottom outside tray of a bird feeder. It can be used for many purposes where there is limited space and where a traditional straight spatula or scraper might not fit.

There are six options: three sizes based on the width of the tip of the blade, and two thicknesses (3mm max. and 4mm max.):

-  15mm:     (50 min. print time; 4g/1.34 meter filament use @100% infill)
-  22mm:     (56 min. print time; 4g/1.51 meter filament use @100% infill)
-  29mm:     (62 min. print time; 5g/1.68 meter filament use @100% infill)  

-  15mm - more rigid (4mm max. thickness, instead of 3mm max. of the originals)
-  22mm - more rigid (ditto)
-  29mm - more rigid (ditto)

The handles are the same, except for their thicknesses. For improved grip, there is an indentation in one side of the handle for placing one's fingertips. The object files are laid out for right handed use. For left-handed use, print the object in mirror image. There is a hole in the handle for hanging up the tool, but it also can be a nice resting spot for one's pinky fingertip.

The models require no rafts or supports and print with ease. I use 100% infill on almost all models that are intended to be tools (durable).

Print Settings

Printer Brand:

Creality

Printer: 

Ender 5

Rafts:

No

Supports: 

No

Resolution:

.16mm

Infill: 

100%

Filament: Overture PETG White

Notes:

The object files are laid out for right-handed use (indentation for fingertips). For left-handed use, slice or print mirror image.

Post-Printing =============

With most 3D prints that are hand tools, I lightly sand most surfaces and edges to remove sharpness and to give a more 'frog skin' like texture for improved grip.

Category: Outdoor & Garden