About Dune Weaver
Open-source kinetic sand tables
What is Dune Weaver?
Dune Weaver is a web-controlled kinetic sand table that creates mesmerizing patterns in sand using a steel ball guided by magnets beneath the surface. It's a motorized sand table that creates stunning, intricate patterns in sand using a steel ball guided by hidden magnets, powered by a raspbery pi and a micro controller (ESP32 or DLC32).
The project seamlessly integrates hardware control with a modern web interface, featuring real-time pattern execution, playlist management, and synchronized lighting effects. With the microcontroller connected to a Raspberry Pi or computer, you can control the table via a web interface, selecting patterns, uploading custom designs, or previewing the ball's motion.
Meet the Creator
Hi, I'm Tuan—data geek by trade, maker at heart. I started Dune Weaver because I wanted a kinetic sand table that anyone could actually build: printable parts, off-the-shelf hardware, no mystery boxes. Beautiful motion, without the scary bill.
I design Dune Weaver to be open, affordable, and hackable. The files are open-source, the builds are 3D-print-friendly, and the software runs locally. I'm constantly refining motion profiles, cable routing, and assembly steps so your first build feels smooth, not stressful. Along the way, Dune Weaver has been featured by places like Tom's Hardware, and—more importantly—by a growing community of builders who share patterns, mods, and clever fixes.
My background is in data and softwarex engineering, but I live for hands-on projects—3D printing, electronics, LEDs, the whole maker buffet. That mix shows up in Dune Weaver: careful engineering where it matters, and plenty of room to customize. Whether you pick up the free designs or dive into the Pro versions, you'll find clear guides, a friendly Discord, and patterns that make the sand look like it's thinking.
If you're here, you're probably a tinkerer, a learner, or someone who just loves mesmerizing things. Welcome. Grab the files, join the community, and build something you'll be proud to leave running on the coffee table.
Why Choose Dune Weaver?
- ✓Affordable: Build your own for a fraction of the cost of commercial alternatives
- ✓Open Source: Full access to designs, code, and community support
- ✓Customizable: Modify and personalize your build to suit your preferences
- ✓Educational: Learn about electronics, programming, and mechanical design
- ✓Community Driven: Active Discord community for support and inspiration
Design Philosophy
I wanted this version to nail a few key things:
Printability First
If it could be 3D printed, it should be. No relying on specialty hardware like timing belts or linear rails when a clever printed solution works better.
Use What's Already Out There
Building around accessible furnitures (IKEA) means you're not hunting down obscure parts or spending a fortune on custom components.
Pass the Living Room Test
If it looks like a science experiment, it's staying in the garage.
Keep the Cost Reasonable
Build your own for a fraction of the cost of commercial alternatives
Silence is Golden
Spent a lot of iteration on making this whisper-quiet. If you build the NEMA 17 version, you won't even know that it's running.
Build on What Worked
Took everything I learned from previous Dune Weavers and refined the mechanics, electronics integration, and added tons of software features.
Ready to Build Your Own?
Explore the different versions and find the perfect Dune Weaver for you.