The electric viola is an instrument that blends classical music with modern performance, often enhanced by amplification and effects. But with the rise of 3D printing, musicians and makers now have the opportunity to build their electric viola, customised, lightweight, and totally unique. This guide explores the design, materials, and technology behind 3D printing an electric viola that’s playable, visually stunning, and functional for both practice and performance.
What Is a 3d-Printed Electric Viola?
A 3d-printed electric viola is a modern version of the traditional viola, created using additive manufacturing. Unlike acoustic models, the electric version doesn’t rely on a resonant body for sound it uses electronic pickups and amplifiers to project the tone.
These violas:
- Are solid-body or semi-hollow
- Often feature minimalist or futuristic designs
- Require minimal wood or traditional materials
- Can be connected to effects pedals and amps
3D printing makes this once-exotic instrument affordable and highly customisable.
Why Print an Electric Viola?
Here’s why makers and musicians are turning to 3d printing:
- Cost-effective: Skip the high price tag of commercial electric violas
- Lightweight design: Custom body shapes reduce strain
- Visual creativity: Build a geometric, artistic, or even steampunk look
- Perfect for practice: Silent when unplugged, great for late-night sessions
- Experimentation: Combine tech (Arduino, sensors) for hybrid instruments
Whether you’re a luthier, educator, or performer, it’s a project that fuses form, function, and flair.
Components of a 3d-Printed Viola
You’ll need more than a printer to complete this project:
- Body and neck: 3D printed in PLA, PETG, or Carbon PLA
- Fingerboard: Printed or made from wood for smoother play
- Bridge: 3D printed or carved; height affects string angle
- Tuning pegs: Printable, but better replaced with mechanical tuners
- Strings: Standard viola strings
- Pickup: Piezo or magnetic pickup for sound
- Jack port: 1/4″ output for amp
- Electronics compartment: For volume knob, preamp, or battery
Best Filaments for Viola Printing
Choose materials based on tone, durability, and comfort:
- PLA+: Easy to print and durable; great for beginners
- PETG: Slightly flexible, handles wear well
- Carbon Fibre PLA: Strong, lightweight, professional feel
- ABS: Good acoustics but trickier to print
For bridges and necks, consider combining 3d prints with hardwood for better resonance and feel.
Ideal Print Settings
To ensure high-quality parts:
- Layer Height: 0.2 mm
- Infill: 50% for body; 70 %+ for bridge and neck
- Walls: 4+ for strength
- Bed Adhesion: Brim recommended for body halves
- Supports: Needed for F-holes, scrollwork, or neck angles
- Speed: 40–50 mm/s
Always print the body in multiple parts for size and strength, then assemble with epoxy or bolts.
Assembly and Tuning
Once all parts are printed:
- Smooth surfaces with sanding, resin, or filler primer
- Install electronics with shielded wire and secure connections
- Mount the bridge and tailpiece at the correct scale length (about 37 cm)
- Add pegs or machine heads for tuning stability
- Tune strings and adjust bridge height to your playing style
You can test different string tensions or pickup placements for tonal variety.
Creative Variations
- Glow-in-the-dark filaments for stage presence
- Dual pickups for stereo effects
- Artistic scrolls or open body frames
- Integrated LED lighting
- Wireless transmitter for amp-free freedom
These customisations let you design an instrument that reflects your musical identity.
READ MORE – 3d-Printed Drawing a Robot with a Cam: A Hands-On Blend of Art and Mechanics
FAQs:
1. Can a 3d-printed viola be used professionally?
Yes. With high-quality materials and a reliable pickup system, it performs well for both practice and amplified sessions.
2. What kind of pickup should I use?
Piezo pickups are standard and easy to install. Magnetic pickups are also usable for steel strings.
3. Is the printed neck strong enough?
Yes, if printed with carbon PLA and high infill, or combined with a wooden core.
4. Can I use a standard viola bridge?
Yes, but a printed or custom bridge may be better suited for electric play.
5. How much does it cost to build a 3d-printed viola?
Typically $20–$50 for filament and parts, plus optional electronics ($10–$30).
Conclusion:
The 3D printed electric viola is more than a fun experiment—it’s a real instrument, capable of professional sound and thoroughly tailored to your style. With the right design and parts, you can create something playable, portable, and totally unique. It’s a brilliant example of how 3D printing empowers creativity at the intersection of music and technology.
