Mag-Lock Impossible Dovetail Box

Mag-Lock Impossible Dovetail Box: https://makerworld.com/en/models/2012...

A print-in-place magnetic illusion puzzle with a reversible locking core.
This is my custom reinterpretation of the classic Impossible Dovetail Puzzle, redesigned to be fully self-contained, print-in-place, and powered by a clever magnetic piston lock that never leaves the box.
🧩 How It Works (Without Spoiling the Fun)

The box prints in three main parts—the base, the middle core, and the lid.
Each of these parts includes a mid-print pause just before the magnet cavities are sealed. This lets you drop in a12X3 mm magnet, and then the printer closes the cavity permanently around it for a clean, tamper-proof finish.
Inside the middle section is a pair of print-in-place pistons that slide freely but never detach. These pistons are magnetically pulled either down into the base or up into the lid, depending on how the box is oriented.
When the piston is pulled upward, it slides into an internal hole in the lid—locking the dovetail seam and preventing the lid from moving.
Turn the box the other way, and the piston is pulled downward toward the base, clearing the locking hole and allowing the “impossible” dovetail joint to slide open as if by magic.
No loose parts. No steel ball to lose.
🖨 Print Details

Prints in three parts: Base, Middle (with pistons), Lid
All pistons print in place with tuned tolerances
Pause-at-layer required to insert magnets into each part
No supports needed
Designed for standard 0.2 mm layers
Works great in PLA or PETG
D12X3 mm Round Magnet - CA010
🎯 Features

✔ Self-contained locking mechanism
✔ Reversible magnetic piston with smooth travel
✔ Secure embedded magnets—no glue required
✔ Classic impossible dovetail illusion
✔ Durable, elegant, and fun to fidget with
Included with the project is a Tolerance Test Print. This allows you to print a small and carefree test to practice aligning the magnets. I highly recommend doing the Tolerance Test prints if you have never installed magnets during a print. I also use in the video my Magnet Applicator model you can find here:

https://makerworld.com/en/models/1941...