I recently stumbled upon a beautiful 3D model on MakerWorld (credit to @ByteSizedStem): a hexagonal wall-mounted display designed for 1:64 scale model cars. As someone who owns around 50 of these little diecast treasures, this model immediately caught my attention. The design is sleek, modular, and perfect for showcasing a growing collection. I downloaded it without hesitation and started printing it out.
Once the display was up on the wall and I placed a few cars inside, I realized something was missing - lighting.
That’s when I got the idea: why not integrate LED strips into the structure to enhance the visual impact and make the cars pop, even in dim lighting?
The LED Add-on Idea
The core design was already solid, so I wanted the lighting to feel like a natural extension rather than an afterthought. I created 3D-printable LED add-on modules that fit snugly around the outer edges of each hexagon. The goal was to keep the additions minimal and elegant, matching the original design while providing just the right amount of brightness.
These add-on frames can be installed gradually, meaning I can light up new segments as my collection grows or as time allows.
For powering the LEDs, I didn’t go the usual USB route. Instead, I used a dedicated power supply, for which I also designed a custom enclosure. The box is securely mounted to the wall and has proper ventilation holes to keep the power unit cool. It also features a snap-on lid to keep everything neat and safe.
Why This Project is Special
What I love most about this build is how it evolves. Every time I add more cars to the display, I can print a new hexagon and extend the LED system further. It’s a dynamic, expanding project - exactly the kind of creative flexibility I enjoy with 3D printing.
Plus, the lighting adds a completely new dimension. It’s no longer just a way to organize my miniatures; it’s a full-on presentation piece.
The Ultimate Goal
One day, I hope to have so many cars and hexagons that they form an illuminated arc above a doorway—like a glowing tunnel of 1:64 diecast greatness. Slowly but surely, piece by piece, that vision is coming to life.
