Many YouTubers and influencers feature original Nanoleaf Elements on their walls. While they offer a striking visual, a more affordable alternative is perfectly adequate for some.

This sparked the idea of simply 3D printing the panels yourself and then utilizing the WLED Project as the foundation. The necessary hardware is inexpensive, and with a good 3D model, you can certainly create some very attractive panels.

Here's what you'll need:

• ESP32 (any model)
• WS2812B LED strips
• Power supply

Since the available shapes all have certain limitations, I'll likely design my own versions in OnShape (or OpenSCAD), based on Nanoleaf photos.

This means the parts list will also expand to include:

• Diffuser sheet

A friend also suggested using pogo pins as connectors. While that sounds like a promising idea, it would make the internal circuitry more complex, as I'm not yet sure how the WLEDs would need to be wired in that configuration.

Theoretically, you could also connect a microphone to the ESP32 and then operate the LEDs in a “sound reactive” mode, although it's usually quiet in my (work) room and only the keyboard can be heard. And during video calls, it's never that dark (at least not in spring/summer).

https://github.com/Aircoookie/WLED

https://cults3d.com/de/modell-3d/haus/light-panels-nanoleaf-replica-wall-panel https://cults3d.com/de/modell-3d/haus/lampara-triangular-simil-nanoleaf

• Edge length: 113 mm
• Cover film: 0.5 mm
• Minimum height: 6 mm
• Maximum height: 10 mm
• Rounding length (Edge): 20 mm
• Rounding length (Vertex): 14 mm
• Wall thickness: 2 mm
• Margin (Rear side): 3 mm (2 mm at connectors)

Link to the technical teardown: https://www.eevblog.com/forum/projects/nanoleaf-aurora-teardown/