Gnomes have been around for ages and feature prominently in many cultures in Northern Europe. So naturally, once we learned more, we had to take a turn at crafting one in 3D!

Scandinavian Folklore

Gnomes trace back to the Nordic regions of Scandinavia, Finland, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands. Folklore suggests that gnomes, elves, and fairies have been part of mythology since the 1400s. Legends about gnomes were shared from the mountains of Switzerland and forests of Germany to the fjords in Norway.

Gnomes were described as mythical creatures who lived underground or as part of the earth. Many tales explained the nature of their magical powers. Given their connection to the land, gnomes positively impacted the natural world and made farms more productive. They worked their magic at night and turned to stone during the day, which explains how they quickly became garden gnomes.

It’s not clear how gnomes have so quickly become part of the winter holiday season, but many believe it’s their resemblance to Santa Claus. Their pointy hats, beards, bellies, and friendly nature encouraged the idea. Plus, gnomes, like elves, have been known to bestow gifts. Whatever the reason, holiday gnomes are here to stay.

The Myth Meets Pop Culture

Following the trend, 3Doodler offered a garden gnome kit that included a canvas gnome shape that creators could doodle on and customize with their choice of colors and textures. The recent popularity of these whimsical winter characters inspired our latest Doodle — a holiday gnome.

All you need to get started is a 3Doodler Start+ 3D printing pen, eco-friendly filament, a DoodlePad, and the 3Doodler stencil. Follow our tutorial for step-by-step instructions to make this fun holiday gnome. We were tempted to change up the colors, but kept it classic for the holidays. Go ahead and change it up, using different colors for the hat, beard, and legs.

We can’t wait to see what you design. Share your creations with us @3Doodler or use tags #3Doodler #WhatWillYouCreate.

The post Gnome for the Holidays first appeared on 3Doodler.

1. DIY Christmas Wreath

Learn how to make a wreath with the video tutorial below! This handmade creation adds a welcoming touch to any door, wall or cozy fireplace. Print out this stencil and follow along with the video for a fun DIY evening! Add a flying reindeer for a cute Christmas touch, or customize it in any way you want.

Download Stencil

2. Simple Holiday Ornaments

These modern-looking ornaments are great for 3D pen users of any level. Simply trace over the outline of any shape from this stencil to make a frame. Then add a dot of filament to one edge and start wrapping extruded filament around it, circling your pen around the frame as you hold it in place. Finish by Doodling a loop on the tip of your frame and thread a ribbon through it.

Download Stencil

3. Handmade 3D Christmas Cards

Handmade cards always provide that thoughtful and unexpected touch. Try out this easy technique to add embossed details to your cards! All you need is a card, a 3Doodler Create+ pen, and some filaments. Simply use your 3Doodler pen to draw out your design (like you would with a normal pen and pencil), and create a beautiful card with detailing that you can run your fingers across!

#whatwillyoucreate

Happy Doodling!

The post Handmade Christmas Cards & Decor Ideas (made with a 3D pen!) first appeared on 3Doodler.