LED matrix desktop stand for smart homes

Summary

This project provides a clean, professional-looking stand for standard 8x8 WS2812B LED matrices. The modular design features a stable base, integrated ESP32 housing, and a diffuser system for optimal light distribution. Perfect for Home Assistant displays, pixel art, notifications, or custom visualizations.

Key Features:

• Desktop stand - Stable base for table placement
• Clean aesthetics - Acrylic cover and diffuser for a clean look with retro pixel optics
• Low cost - Budget-friendly build (under $10 in components)
• Versatile applications - ESP32-based design enables various use cases. Perfect for Home Assistant, notifications, pixel art, or animations
• Easy to build - Simple to print and assemble

Full documentation, assembly instructions, and source files available on GitHub: https://github.com/Smengerl/model_paint_holder

Example Applications:

• Home Assistant status display
• Solar/battery monitoring
• Weather display
• Notifications
• Pixel art animations
• Retro game displays
• Music visualizer

What's Included:

• Base box with integrated ESP32 mounting
• Display frame base
• Display diffuser (print in translucent PLA)
• Display grid (print in black for best results)
• Display cover frame
• Base box cover

Print Settings

• Rafts: No
• Supports: No
• Infill: 20%

Notes:                     

• Best visual results with semi-transparent black acrylic and black grid
• Diffuser prints best in translucent/natural PLA for smooth light distribution
• All dimensions optimized for standard WS2812B 8x8 matrices (typically ~32mm square)

Assembly

1. Mount ESP32 to base with M3×6mm screws
2. Attach display frame base with M3×10mm screws
3. Solder and connect LED matrix to ESP32
4. Secure LED matrix with M2×4mm screws
5. Insert diffuser and grid
6. Add acrylic panel to display cover (optional)
7. Place display cover on top
8. Close base with M3×10mm screws

See assembly animation in the images for visual guidance.

Software

An example ESPHome configuration for Home Assistant integration is available in the GitHub repository: https://github.com/Smengerl/matrix_display_stand_8x8