Some builds push creativity. Others push engineering. This one did both.
For a client's thesis project, we were asked to create a custom Raspberry Pi enclosure based on a ruby-shaped concept. The client supplied a reference image — a faceted gemstone silhouette — and from there, it was our job to design a chassis that wasn't just eye-catching, but also fully functional as a working electronic housing.
Designing the Ruby
The shape may look simple at a glance, but turning a gemstone silhouette into a clean, printable, and structurally sound enclosure meant redesigning it from the inside out.
We modelled the case to include:
- Proper clearances for all Raspberry Pi ports
- Ventilation pathways for airflow
- Internal fastener points that wouldn't interrupt the exterior geometry
- Magnet mounts using Neodymium N35 NdFeB 8×5 mm magnets for a clean open-close mechanism
Everything had to work together: the angles, the seams, the structure, the magnet fit — all without breaking the iconic ruby silhouette.
Printing the Gem
Printed in red filament, the chassis came out clean and bold, perfectly matching the client's desired form factor.
Total print time: 5 hours
Material: Red filament
Hardware: Neodymium N35 NdFeB circular magnets (8×5 mm)
Despite its sharp geometry, the print was optimized for strength, minimizing weak points and ensuring the enclosure could withstand repeated opening, closing, and handling.
Why It Matters
Custom enclosures show the real power of 3D printing — merging aesthetic vision with technical functionality. A concept that starts as a picture can become a working, durable, and uniquely styled electronic housing.
For FlareLab, builds like this showcase what happens when design and utility meet halfway: a print that looks good, works well, and stands out.
Materials Used
Red Filament
Magnet Neodymium N35 NdFeB Circular 8×5 mm
Final Thoughts
This Ruby-Shaped Raspberry Pi Chassis proves that style doesn't have to sacrifice function. With smart modeling, proper ventilation, and magnet-ready engineering, even a gemstone-inspired concept can become a clean, practical enclosure — straight from screen to print.
Frequently asked questions
Which Raspberry Pi models does this enclosure fit?
The base design fits the Raspberry Pi 4 form factor, with port cutouts for HDMI, USB, Ethernet, and the GPIO header. Flarelab can adapt the case for Pi 5, Pi 3, or Pi Zero on request.
How does the magnet closure work?
Eight 8x5 mm Neodymium N35 magnets are press-fit into the seam line between the top and bottom halves. They snap closed firmly but pull apart cleanly when you need to access the Pi or its connections.
Will the Pi overheat inside this enclosure?
Not under typical loads. Ventilation pathways are built into the bottom and sides of the chassis to keep airflow moving. For high-load workloads (server tasks, video processing), add a small 30 mm fan to the GPIO header.
How long does it take to print?
This particular build took 5 hours of print time. With a 0.2 mm layer height and 15% infill, expect 5–7 hours depending on detail and printer speed.
Can it be printed in colors other than red?
Absolutely. Red gives it the classic ruby look, but it works just as well in sapphire blue, emerald green, or smoky black. Translucent filaments like Emerald Crystal create a stunning faceted-gem effect.
Can Flarelab print this enclosure for my Pi?
Yes. Send your Pi model and color preference to flarelab.com and the team will print, fit the magnets, and ship the assembled case ready to use.
