The Magis Spun chair is instantly recognizable for its playful, spinning-top shape and eye-catching curves. Designed by Thomas Heatherwick, this modern classic is both a sculpture and a seat, inviting people of all ages to take a spin and experience furniture in a fun new way. While the authentic Spun chair is molded from rotationally-molded plastic and comes with a designer price tag, DIY enthusiasts have always dreamed of recreating its magic at home. Enter Morley Kert, a maker who recently took on the challenge of 3D printing his own version of the Spun chair, and the results are turning heads.
Morley Kert’s project began with a simple desire: to make a Magis Spun chair accessible and buildable for anyone with the right tools and a bit of ingenuity. He started by studying the chair’s unique geometry, using 3D modeling software to recreate the smooth, continuous curves that make the Spun so alluring. Instead of using traditional plastic or fiberglass, Kert opted for a different approach—he would 3D print the parts in segments, then assemble them to create a full-size chair that you can actually sit and spin in.
Designer: Morley Kert
The process wasn’t as easy as just hitting “print.” The Spun chair’s round shape is notoriously tricky for home fabrication, especially at the size needed for adult seating. Kert divided the model into more manageable slices, each designed to fit within the build area of a standard 3D printer. He used sturdy PLA filament to ensure the final chair would hold up to daily use. After printing dozens of segments, he carefully glued and clamped them together, sanding the seams to achieve a smooth, continuous surface. To give the chair extra strength, Kert filled some sections with expanding foam and reinforced key stress points—an important step for any DIY furniture meant for real use.
Once assembled, the 3D-printed Spun chair was finished with a coat of primer and paint to mimic the original’s sleek look. The result is a show-stopping piece that captures the spirit of Heatherwick’s design, but with a handmade twist. Kert’s project has inspired a wave of makers to try building their own spinning chairs, using 3D printing and other accessible materials like plywood. Videos of the process, including a detailed build on YouTube, have racked up thousands of views as DIYers seek to put their own spin on this iconic seat.
For anyone interested in building their own Spun chair, Kert’s project demonstrates the possibilities of 3D printing for large-scale furniture and creative home projects. It’s a perfect example of how modern technology can bring high-design objects within reach of everyday creators. With the right tools and a bit of patience, even the most whimsical and high-end pieces can be recreated at home, making good design accessible to all.
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