**This model requires glue. ** Difficulty: Expert Level.

Material: High-quality PLA. PETG or ABS are not recommended due to the difficulty of removing supports from complex structures.

Supports: Required. Use Tree Supports to minimize contact points. Carefully adjust your support Z-distance to ensure they release easily without pulling on the branches.

Settings: A 0.4mm nozzle or smaller is required. A layer height of 0.12mm or 0.16mm is recommended for detail. Significantly reduce print speed for the top layers of the canopy.

Post-Processing: This is critical. The tips of the branches will snap under any significant force. Use a very sharp hobby knife (like an X-Acto) to cut away the support interface. Be prepared to use cyanoacrylate (Super Glue) to repair any minor breaks.

Designer Notes This bonsai was specifically designed as an artistic challenge for 3D printing. The contrast between the heavy, robust trunk and the delicate, ephemeral nature of the branches and butterflies is the core of the piece. If you manage to print and clean it successfully, it will be a truly unique conversation piece!

Please share photos of your final print (even if you had a few broken branches!). I would love to see how it turns out.