A 3D-printed keepsake is made to keep meaningful photographs visible and easy to enjoy. A little thoughtful care can help your display continue looking its best as you change the photo magnets for new milestones, seasons, and favorite memories.
DSignsBySandy™ displays are 3D printed in PLA, or polylactic acid, a material commonly produced from renewable plant-based feedstocks such as corn starch or sugarcane. Like any display material, it has particular care needs, especially around heat, cleaning, and handling.
Keep your keepsake away from high heat
PLA can soften or change shape when exposed to excessive heat. Display your keepsake indoors in a comfortable, temperature-controlled area. Avoid placing it near a stove, fireplace, radiator, heating vent, or other strong heat source.
Do not leave the display inside a parked vehicle or another enclosed space that can become very hot. A shelf, mantel away from active heat, desk, side table, or nursery display area is a better choice.
Avoid prolonged direct sunlight
Choose a location with indirect light whenever possible. Prolonged direct sunlight can warm the display and may affect its appearance over time. It can also cause printed photographs to fade.
If your keepsake is near a window, move it farther into the room or choose a spot that does not receive strong sunlight for long periods during the day.
Dust gently with a soft cloth
For routine care, use a clean, soft, dry microfiber cloth or a soft brush to remove dust. Work gently around raised lettering, decorative details, corners, and the spaces where the photo magnets sit.
Avoid abrasive pads, rough cloths, and aggressive scrubbing. The visible layer lines are a natural part of the 3D-printing process, and gentle cleaning helps protect the surface and small design details.
Use as little moisture as possible
If a dry cloth is not enough, lightly dampen a soft cloth with water and carefully wipe the affected area. Do not soak the keepsake, hold it under running water, or place it in a dishwasher. Dry it promptly with a soft cloth.
Avoid bleach, alcohol, acetone, strong household cleaners, and other harsh chemicals. These products may damage or discolor the printed surface.
Handle decorative details with care
Lift and move the keepsake by its sturdy base or main body rather than by raised letters, figurines, or other decorative elements. Set it on a stable indoor surface where it is less likely to be knocked over or pulled down.
When changing the interchangeable 2″ × 2″ photo magnets, remove and replace them gently. Keep unused magnets clean, dry, and stored together so they are ready for the next milestone or season.
Store it in a cool, dry place
If you put away a seasonal display, dust it first and remove any loose photo magnets. Wrap the keepsake loosely in a soft, clean material and place it in a sturdy container where heavier objects will not press against it.
Store the container indoors, away from high heat, humidity, and direct sunlight. Avoid hot attics, vehicles, or other areas with large temperature changes.
What makes PLA different?
PLA is commonly produced from renewable plant-based feedstocks, but a finished PLA keepsake should not be treated as home-compostable. Do not place your keepsake in a household compost pile or assume it will quickly break down outdoors.
Proper care helps protect the material and the memories it holds. Keeping the display clean, protected from excessive heat, and handled gently helps you continue using it as the photographs change.
Keep your memories in view
Each DSignsBySandy™ display begins as a design Sandy creates, tests, adjusts, and prints herself. Explore the Photo Magnet Displays collection to find 3D-printed keepsakes designed for four interchangeable 2″ × 2″ photo magnets.
These are general care recommendations for DSignsBySandy™ PLA keepsakes. Photographs shown with products are for display purposes. Your finished keepsake will feature the photos you provide.
Written by Sandy, designer and creator of the DSignsBySandy™ Memory Block Collection. Learn more about Sandy.