Seattle Architect’s 3D Printed Ferry Models Sail Into Reddit Fame

When Gino Palileo arrived in Seattle from the Philippines in 2015, he never imagined his fascination with the city’s iconic green-and-white ferries would lead to a viral 3D printing sensation. The young architect, now splitting his time between Seattle and New York, has captured the hearts of transit enthusiasts and craft lovers alike with his meticulously detailed miniature Washington State Ferries.

Palileo’s journey with ferries began humbly—working at an ice cream shop at the waterfront ferry terminal, where he watched the vessels crisscross Elliott Bay daily. “When I started high school, we would go camping a lot, so we would take the ferries,” he told GeekWire. “We’d maybe do two or three trips every year.” Those childhood memories evolved into a deep appreciation for the vessels that connect communities across Puget Sound.

His architectural background led him to 3D printing as a design tool during college, but what started as a practical skill quickly became a passionate hobby. This week, Palileo shared his latest masterpiece on Reddit: a series of 1:400 scale models of Washington State Ferries’ Olympic-Class vessels, including the M/V Chimacum, M/V Samish, M/V Suquamish, and M/V Tokitae.

The models, measuring approximately 9.8 inches in length, showcase Palileo’s extraordinary attention to detail. Using Rhino 3D modeling software, he created intricate designs that capture everything from the multiple decks and railings to seating arrangements and other infrastructure. The 3D printer of choice? A Prusa MK4S, known for its precision and reliability among enthusiasts.

What makes these models particularly impressive is Palileo’s innovative approach to color. Rather than relying on complex multi-material printing processes, he designed the models in a way that allows for easy color addition through strategic filament swaps. This clever technique makes the printing process more accessible while maintaining the vibrant appearance of the real vessels.

The designs are available for free on Palileo’s Printables marketplace page, allowing fellow enthusiasts to create their own miniature ferry fleets. He even mentioned the possibility of including tiny printed cars, trucks, or people to populate the decks, adding another layer of realism to the models.

In his Reddit post, Palileo expressed his deep connection to these vessels: “I’m very fond of these ferries; they’re always fun to be on. They all have beautiful names that honor tribes, peoples, and locations indigenous to the Puget Sound area.” This cultural awareness adds another dimension to his work, celebrating not just the engineering marvels but also the rich history and heritage they represent.

The Reddit community’s response was overwhelmingly positive, with users sharing personal connections and creative suggestions:

• “Wow! My wife is a native of Whidbey Island. I’d love to make one for her.” — @jordanhusney
• “If you print another take it to the ferry itself and present it to the captain. It would be cool to see in a display case on board.” — @Shayden-Froida
• “This is stunning — thank you! My father-in-law was the chief engineer for the Olympics and this will be an amazing gift for him.” — @thevowel

Palileo’s work resonates deeply with Seattle’s community of transit enthusiasts. As a self-professed “transit geek,” he has ambitious plans for future projects. The Seattle Monorail and Link light rail trains are on his radar, as is the historic Virginia V steamship moored at South Lake Union.

But perhaps the most intriguing prospect is his interest in tackling the legendary MV Kalakala. This art deco ferry, which operated from 1935 to 2003, holds a special place in Seattle’s maritime history. “I was thinking of maybe an older ferry — the Kalakala?” Palileo mused. “It is a little bit more complicated than I thought so I went with the modern ones for now. But I do want to do that one and have a nice silver color for it.”

The Kalakala project would present unique challenges, given its distinctive streamlined design and metallic finish. However, Palileo’s proven track record suggests he’s up to the task. His ability to break down complex designs into printable components while maintaining historical accuracy makes him a standout in the 3D printing community.

Palileo’s work represents more than just impressive craftsmanship; it’s a celebration of Seattle’s identity and infrastructure. The Washington State Ferries are not merely transportation vessels but symbols of the region’s geography, culture, and community connections. By immortalizing them in miniature form, Palileo creates tangible links between the city’s past, present, and future.

His success also highlights the democratization of design and manufacturing through 3D printing technology. What once required industrial-scale production can now be accomplished by individual creators in their homes or studios. This accessibility has fostered a vibrant community of makers who share designs, techniques, and inspiration across platforms like Reddit and Printables.

As Palileo continues to explore Seattle’s transportation icons through his 3D printing projects, he’s not just creating models—he’s building bridges between technology, art, and community. His work serves as inspiration for aspiring designers and a reminder of the everyday marvels that shape our urban experiences.

Whether you’re a transit enthusiast, a 3D printing hobbyist, or simply someone who appreciates meticulous craftsmanship, Gino Palileo’s ferry models offer something special: a chance to hold a piece of Seattle’s maritime heritage in your hands, one precisely printed layer at a time.

Tags:

3D printing, Washington State Ferries, Gino Palileo, Seattle architecture, Rhino 3D, Prusa MK4S, Olympic-Class ferries, transit geek, maritime history, MV Kalakala, Printables marketplace, Reddit viral, model making, Puget Sound, ferry enthusiast

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