Pentomino 3D

Pentomino 3D (Version 2)

Pentomino 3D is a versatile geometric puzzle designed for both two-dimensional areas and three-dimensional constructions. This updated Version 2 features an optimized sliding lid box with a snap-in mechanism for secure storage.

🛠 Quick Start & Print Settings

The exact settings are not critical; you can use your preferred standard profile.

I printed the puzzle with the following settings:

• Material: PLA

• Resolution: 0.2mm

• Infill: 20%

• no supports

• no raft, no brim

🆕 Fitting

This set includes a redesigned base and a matching sliding lid for better handling.

• Lid Fit: If the printed lid jams or is too tight, re-print it with its width reduced by 0.2 mm in your slicer.

• Snap-In Mechanism: If the lid is too hard to close, simply file or sand it down slightly using a nail file or sandpaper until it clicks in smoothly. If the snap-in mechanism is not tight enough, you can print the lid 0.2 mm wider.

• Pro Tip for Perfect Tiles: For a "factory-finish" look on both sides, print two half-thickness pieces (sink them 7.0 mm into the build plate in your slicer), mirror one set, and glue them together.

🧩 The Challenge

The set consists of the 12 classic pentomino pieces plus one O-tetromino to completely fill the 8 x 8 area of the box.

• 2D Tasks: Try to fit all pieces flat into the box. There are thousands of solutions, but finding one is still a challenge.

• 3D Tasks: Use the pentomino pieces to build 3D structures, such as a 3 x 4 x 5 block

• There are many other two- and three-dimensional shapes that can be built using the pentominoes.

• Online Solver: If you get stuck or want to create your own shapes, use the web app: Pentomino 3D Online Solver (No download required).

Solution videos for the 3-dimensional shapes shown are available on YouTube:

📐 Mathematical Background

Pentominoes are polyforms made up of 5 squares. There are 12 different ways to arrange them.

While pentominoes are classically defined as 2D objects, these 3D versions are mathematically a selection of specific pentacubes consisting of 5 cubes.

Further polyform puzzles and background

   ➤  Pentoma Puzzles

Liked this model? Check out my other polyform puzzles on Printables

   ➤  All my printables models

Safety Note

Safety note: Choking hazard due to small parts. Not for children under 3 years.