3D Print Your Own Iron Lung Popcorn Bucket
The allure of a unique movie collectible often sparks fervent discussion among film enthusiasts and 3D printing hobbyists alike. When I first encountered the concept of a 3D printable Iron Lung popcorn bucket, my immediate thought was about the intersection of creative fandom and practical application. This endeavor brings together horror cinema, YouTube culture, and the accessibility of additive manufacturing, creating a tangible piece of cinematic history that fans can literally hold in their hands.
Source: Own illustration
Quick Summary: Iron Lung Popcorn Bucket
- What it is: A 3D-printable popcorn bucket designed in collaboration with the "Iron Lung" film creators.
- Availability: Free 3D print files are provided by Markiplier and Regal Prop Shop.
- Dimensions: The bucket measures 10.8″ x 9.6″ x 8.6″.
- Design: Features a monstrous, blood-smeared maw, split into two parts for printing.
- Promotions: Print the full-sized bucket and bring it to a Regal showing during opening weekend (Jan 30 – Feb 1, 2026) for a FREE small popcorn. Regal is also giving away 10 hand-painted buckets.
- Purchase Option: An official, pre-made bucket is available for $43.95 exclusively at Regal.
- Considerations: 3D printing requires support structures; food safety with 3D-printed plastics is a concern due to material properties and printing processes.
The Iron Lung Popcorn Bucket Phenomenon
Regal Cinemas has partnered with Markiplier’s film Iron Lung to offer fans a unique, self-printable collectible popcorn container. The Regal Prop Shop Team collaborated with Molly Brown (@deadlymelodic), the creature designer for Iron Lung, to create the 3D models for the "Iron Lung Blood Bucket." These 3D print files for the Iron Lung popcorn bucket are available free of charge, a generous move by Markiplier, the film’s author, director, editor, and executive producer.
The popcorn bucket itself measures 10.8″ x 9.6″ x 8.6″. Its design evokes a monstrous, blood-smeared maw, making it a truly unique piece for horror fans.
Source: geekculture.co
A close-up view reveals the bucket’s menacing design with its gaping maw, sharp teeth, and blood-smeared appearance.
The bucket splits into two main sections: a lower part featuring teeth and Iron Lung branding, and a gory upper section with the Regal logo. The top portion lacks a bottom, implying the two halves require adhesion for assembly. The 3D print files were updated on January 24, 2026, to ensure a better fit between the two parts, showing a commitment to quality for those who choose to print their own.
Promotional Offers for Fans
Fans who print the full-sized popcorn bucket and bring it to a showing of Iron Lung at Regal during opening weekend (January 30, 2026 – February 1, 2026) can receive a FREE small popcorn. This is a fantastic incentive for those who invest their time in printing the bucket.
Regal is also holding a giveaway for 10 hand-painted popcorn buckets. To enter, participants must follow Regal’s Instagram channel (@regalmovies) and comment "TEETH" on the popcorn bucket post. For those who prefer to purchase, an official popcorn bucket is available exclusively at Regal for $43.95.
Iron Lung: From Game to Silver Screen
The film Iron Lung draws its inspiration from David Szymanski’s 2022 video game, which garnered a significant following. The movie is scheduled for theatrical release on January 30 and has received an R rating for "language, bloody images, and some gore," promising a truly intense cinematic experience for horror aficionados.
3D Printing the Iron Lung Popcorn Bucket: Considerations
Printing this elaborate popcorn bucket demands a practical understanding of 3D printing. Both halves of the design require support structures during printing. Thin overhangs incur significant support costs, and delicate sections can break easily when removing these supports. Printing the teeth separately could save both time and reduce frustration.
Printing Challenges and Tips
When using printers with multi-color capabilities but only one extruder, color changes and support structures can lead to substantial plastic waste. Alternatively, individuals can print the bucket in a single color and paint it afterward, though this process is time-consuming and requires artistic skill to achieve the desired "blood-smeared" effect.
It is worth noting that another fan, known as Largo380, also designed a unique Iron Lung popcorn bucket and shared the files on Thingiverse, demonstrating the broader creative engagement within the community and the desire for personalized movie memorabilia.
Food Safety and 3D Printed Plastics
The most common material for 3D printing is PLA (Polylactide), derived from plant starch. While PLA is generally considered food-safe at room temperature, the printing process and subsequent use can compromise this safety. Lubricants from the 3D printer’s mechanical components can transfer to the plastic, and painting the bucket before consuming food from it is not recommended due to potential chemical leaching.
Risks and Mitigations
The layered nature of 3D prints, combined with the semi-porous quality of the plastic, can harbor bacteria, rendering them unsafe for food without proper sealing. PLA begins to soften at approximately 49 degrees Celsius (120 Fahrenheit), a temperature lower than hot water from most taps, which means it could deform with hot food or during cleaning. Additionally, melted butter on popcorn can introduce bacterial risks if the bucket is reused multiple times.
To lessen these risks, users can opt for PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) filament or apply a food-safe sealant to the interior of the bucket.
Source: amazon.ca
PETG filament offers a more food-safe alternative to PLA, with higher heat resistance and durability for practical use.
| Feature | PLA (Polylactide) | PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Plant starch | Plastic polymer |
| Food Safety (General) | Generally food-safe at room temperature | More food-safe than PLA, higher heat resistance |
| Heat Resistance | Softens ~49°C (120°F) | Higher than PLA, better for hot liquids/food |
| Bacterial Risk | High due to porous nature, layering | Lower due to less porous nature, but still requires sealing for food contact |
| Printing Ease | Easier to print | Slightly more challenging than PLA |
| Cost | Typically lower | Typically higher than PLA |
Conclusion
The Iron Lung popcorn bucket is more than just a promotional item; it represents a convergence of modern media, fan engagement, and accessible manufacturing technology. While the opportunity to own or print this unique piece is exciting, prospective builders should consider the practicalities of 3D printing and, critically, the food safety implications of using such an item for its intended purpose. Whether you print it or buy it, this bucket is sure to be a conversation starter for any horror movie fan.
Source: YouTube
What is the Iron Lung Popcorn Bucket?
It’s a collectible popcorn container designed to resemble a monstrous, blood-smeared maw, inspired by Markiplier’s horror film Iron Lung. Fans can either 3D print it themselves using free files or purchase an official version.
Where can I get the 3D print files?
The 3D print files are available free of charge, provided by Markiplier and the Regal Prop Shop team. You can find them on Printables by Regal_Prop-Shop.
Is the 3D-printed bucket food-safe?
While PLA, a common 3D printing material, is generally considered food-safe at room temperature, the printing process can introduce contaminants. The layered and porous nature of 3D prints can also harbor bacteria. For actual food use, it’s recommended to use PETG filament or apply a food-safe sealant to the interior.
What are the dimensions of the bucket?
The bucket measures 10.8″ x 9.6″ x 8.6″ when fully assembled.
Can I get free popcorn with my 3D-printed bucket?
Yes! If you print the full-sized bucket and bring it to a showing of Iron Lung at Regal during opening weekend (January 30, 2026 – February 1, 2026), you can receive a FREE small popcorn.