# The Garden Sentinel (TF//003)

> A compact watch-machine grown through by roots that fossilised around their prisoner.

The smallest paid specimen: a sentinel unit overtaken by a garden it was built to guard. Mechanical plating and organic root-work interlock in a compact, satisfying print.

**Digital STL files. No physical item will be shipped.**

## Specimen facts

- **What is this?**: Digital STL package for resin 3D printing
- **Digital or physical?**: Digital download only — no physical item will be shipped.
- **Files included**: the-garden-sentinel_root-base.stl; the-garden-sentinel_body.stl; the-garden-sentinel_optic-housing.stl; the-garden-sentinel_root-crown.stl; README-garden-sentinel.txt (print notes and licence)
- **Print size**: 92 × 84 × 118 mm assembled at intended scale
- **Parts**: 4
- **Pre-supported?**: No — unsupported STLs with documented orientation notes. Pre-supported files are planned as a free update.
- **Intended printer**: MSLA/DLP resin printers (small build plates are fine)
- **Skill level**: Beginner
- **Recommended layer height**: 35–50 µm
- **Assembly**: Four parts with keyed joints. No magnets.
- **Test-print status**: Not yet test printed — files pending final production.
- **Licences**: Personal (€10) or Commercial (€39)
- **File updates**: Delivered by email to the address from your order, at no extra cost.
- **Current version**: v0.9.0

## The discovery

The roots did not push the machine aside. They went through it, joint by joint, and then both turned to stone.

Its optic housing is angled down, toward the roots, not out toward any threat.

Whatever the sentinel was guarding at the end, it was not the garden gate.

## Frequently asked questions

### Is this a digital or a physical product?

Digital STL files for resin 3D printing. No physical item will be shipped.

### Is it suitable for a first paid print?

Yes. Four parts, forgiving geometry and a compact footprint make it the gentlest paid specimen in the archive.

### Which printers does it fit?

Any current MSLA/DLP resin printer; every part fits small build plates.

---
Canonical page: https://tomorrowsfossils.com/specimens/the-garden-sentinel/
Last updated: 2026-08-31