Best 3d printer for cookie cutters


The 5 Best 3D Printers for Making Cookie Cutters – Clever Creations

Image: Oogime via Cults3D

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Best overall

Creality Ender 3 S1

  • Less than 50db while printing
  • Reliable
  • High-quality prints

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Best on a budget

Qidi Technology X-one2

  • Ready to use out of the box
  • Supports all popular materials
  • All-metal frame

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Best high-end

Prusa i3 MK3S+

  • Great print quality
  • Wide material compatibility
  • Many reliability features

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If you’ve ever wondered if you can make your own cookie cutters with a 3D printer, we’re here to tell you you’re in luck! Not only are cookie cutters easy and beginner-friendly 3D printing projects, but they are also easy to customize and design as well. Having the right 3D printer for cookie cutters is essential, but with so many options available, it can be hard to choose.

In this article, we’ll dive into the five best 3D printer options for making cookie cutters, what you should look for when buying a 3D printer for these types of projects, and what other supplies you need to start printing your cutters and be one step closer to delicious cookies with a personalized twist.

Cookie Cutter PrinterSummaryBuild VolumeTypePrice (~)Best offer
Creality Ender 3 S1Best overall220 x 200 x 270 mmFDM$440

Creality

Qidi Technology X-one2Best on a budget140 x 140 x 140 mmFDM$250

Amazon

Prusa i3 MK3S+Best high-end250 x 210 x 210 mmFDM$750/$1000

Prusa3D

FlashForge Adventurer 3Best enclosed150 x 150 x 150 mmFDM$450

Flashforge

Elegoo Mars 3Best resin printer143 x 89 x 175 mmResin$299

ELEGOO

The Best 3D Printers for Cookie Cutters in 2023

Creality Ender 3 S1

Best overall

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AmazonCrealityCreality3DOfficialMatterHackers

An upgraded version of the popular Ender 3 V2 printer, the Ender 3 S1 boasts a new line of features for easier and more accurate printing. For example, the new “Sprite” dual gear extruder is built to handle flexible filaments like TPU. With its all-metal gears and direct drive system, it performs much better than the Bowden system on the original. While TPU isn’t a good material for making cutters for cookies, it is suitable for things like cookie stamps, dough texturing sheets, and other baking applications.

The S1 is quiet during printing. While the original Ender 3 runs anywhere between 58-70db, the S1 consistently performs under 50db during the print process. This makes it perfect for users who want to run it within their kitchen, living, or dining room.

The heated build plate comes with a removable magnetic sheet that bends to allow for easier removal once the print is done. This is a helpful feature since cookie cutters can be somewhat fragile where the base meets the thin cutting edge. Breaks and other damage during removal from the print bed are common problems.

With the S1, this is not an issue. If you are looking for the all-round best 3D printer for cookie cutters, the Ender 3 S1 is it.

Recommended:

Creality Ender 3 S1 Review: A New Standard

Standout Features
  • Automatic leveling
  • Dual gear direct drive extruder
  • Precision Z-axis
    • Technical Details
      Build Volume 220 x 200 x 270 mm
      Max. Extruder Temp 260°C
      Max. Bed Temp 100°C
      Bed Leveling Automatic
      Connectivity USB
      Compatible Materials ABS, PLA, TPU, PETG

      What We Like
      • Less than 50db while printing
      • Reliable
      • High-quality prints
      Could Be Better
      • No enclosure

      Find Creality Ender 3 S1 at

      AmazonCrealityCreality3DOfficialMatterHackers

      Qidi Technology X-one2

      Best on a budget

      Check Price

      Amazon

      QIDI technology 3D printers are a popular and more affordable alternative to many of the plug-and-play 3D printers currently on the market. Built with rigid frames, their printers offer a sturdy and reliable experience at a fraction of the typical 3D printer cost.

      Made with an all-metal frame, the QIDI Tech X-one2 is a sturdy and durable option that is ready to go right out of the box. It has a build volume of 140mm x 140mm x 140mm. Overall, this isn’t a very large possible print size, but it is more than sufficient for creating cookie cutters since the vast majority of them don’t exceed 120mm in length or width.

      The X-one2 is easy to use and ready to print straight out of the box. It uses manual leveling, which takes time and practice to get perfectly level (especially at first). Otherwise, the printer is easy to use and guides you through the various functions, making it a great choice for users looking for an affordable and beginner-friendly option to get them printing cutters quickly so they can move on to the real fun—baking cookies in fun shapes.

      Standout Features
      • Heated build plate
      • Large full-color touchscreen
      • Easy-to-use interface
        • Technical Details
          Build Volume 140 x 140 x 140mm
          Max. Extruder Temp 250°C
          Max. Bed Temp 110°C
          Bed Leveling Manual
          Connectivity USB
          Compatible Materials ABS, PLA, TPU, PETG

          What We Like
          • Ready to use out of the box
          • Supports all popular materials
          • All-metal frame
          Could Be Better
          • Small build volume
          • Manual bed leveling

          Find Qidi Technology X-one2 at

          Amazon

          Prusa i3 MK3S+

          Best high-end

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          AmazonPrusa3D

          The Prusa i3 MK3S+ one of the best all-purpose 3D printers on the market. Available as a kit or as a pre-assembled printer, it has an option for users of all skill levels. Unlike most printers sold as kits that rely heavily on precise assembly, the MK3S+ self-corrects errors in the build process so that you can achieve reliable prints without having to fiddle with your printer for hours.

          With a high-precision SuperPINDA probe, the MK3S+ uses a gridded auto-leveling system that maps variations in the bed height to produce a consistent first layer for your printed object every time. This is a valuable feature for cookie cutters, since their thin, flat bases can make layer adhesion a big challenge.

          This printer also has several features meant to reduce waste and prevent print failures. Power loss recovery ensures that you can resume your project if the printer loses power mid-print. Its built-in filament sensor also stops it from continuing to print if the filament breaks or runs out, saving you from having to remove your failed cookie cutter and starting over again.

          The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is a great choice for cookie cutters and other small 3D prints. It’s easy to use, reliable and produces high-quality results. Its wide range of features do come at a cost, but the MK3S+ is an investment that will pay off in your kitchen for years to come.

          Standout Features
          • Self-correcting kit assembly
          • High-precision automatic bed leveling
          • Rigid frame
            • Technical Details
              Build Volume 250 x 210 x 210 mm
              Max. Extruder Temp 300°C
              Max. Bed Temp 120°C
              Bed Leveling Automatic
              Connectivity USB, micro SD card, Wi-Fi (optional), ethernet (optional)
              Compatible Materials PLA, PETG, PVA, PC, ASA, ABS, CPE, PVB, HIPS, PP, TPE, Filled

              What We Like
              • Great print quality
              • Wide material compatibility
              • Many reliability features
              Could Be Better
              • 8-bit motherboard
              • No enclosure

              Find Prusa i3 MK3S+ at

              AmazonPrusa3D

              FlashForge Adventurer 3

              Best enclosed

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              AmazonFlashforgeBanggood

              The FlashForge Adventurer 3 is a user-friendly and intuitive 3D printer that is easy to use and gives you excellent print quality more or less straight out of the box. Its fully enclosed design keeps printing fumes contained and makes it safer to use in your home. It also allows you to print high-temp filaments like ABS without having to deal with excess warping.

              Its hot end uses a special quick-swap chassis that allows you to easily change the nozzle. This is useful in the event of a clog or if you want to switch to a different nozzle size. Using different nozzle sizes can speed up or slow down the printing process, with larger nozzles printing faster but with less detail while smaller nozzles take longer to print but have much better detail.

              It runs on FlashForge’s proprietary slicing software FlashPrint, which is also designed to be clean and user-friendly. It has a simplified mode that loads in printer settings for fast, normal, and high-detail printed objects, with an optional advanced mode for fine-tuning your settings as needed for different projects.

              With its enclosure and easy-to-use slicer, it is perfect for kids to make their own cookie cutters. They can simply load in the cookie cutter design, set it to high detail, and let the Adventurer 3 do its thing. You’ll have a cookie cutter that is accurate down to the smallest detail in no time at all.

              Standout Features
              • Quick-swap nozzle system
              • Fully enclosed design
              • Easy to use slicer
                • Technical Details
                  Build Volume 150 x 150 x 150 mm
                  Max. Extruder Temp 265°C
                  Max. Bed Temp 100°C
                  Bed Leveling Automatic
                  Connectivity WiFi, USB
                  Compatible Materials PLA, ABS, PETG

                  What We Like
                  • Easy to use
                  • Good quality prints
                  • Fully enclosed
                  Could Be Better
                  • Small build volume
                  • Limited slicer options

                  Find FlashForge Adventurer 3 at

                  AmazonFlashforgeBanggood

                  Elegoo Mars 3

                  Best resin printer

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                  AmazonELEGOOMatterHackers

                  While past SLA printers have suffered from slow print times and small build plates, they weren’t typically considered for functions like printing cutters for cookies. However, the Elegoo Mars 3 is an MSLA LCD resin 3D printer, meaning it prints much faster than a typical SLA 3D printer does.

                  The Elegoo Mars 3 features a 143mm x 89mm x 175 mm print size, perfect for cookie cutter production. Cutters for cookies don’t necessarily need the incredible resolution that comes with resin 3D printing, since the baked cookies lose most of their definition anyway. However, other baking applications like cutting and stamping fondant definitely benefit from this higher level of detail.

                  This printer is best used in an adjacent or separate area like a garage or workshop. Uncured resin produces a lot of fumes that can irritate your lungs if breathed in for too long. You should also use gloves, goggles, and a respirator rated for VOCs when working with resin. If you plan to use the printer indoors, proper ventilation is essential.

                  The Elegoo Mars 3 is an excellent cookie cutter 3D printer for anyone looking to get into 3D printing with resin. With a price tag of under $300, it’s also one of the more affordable options on the market. It offers incredible print quality and a decent build size. While it does require some safety precautions, this printer is perfect for anyone who wants to be able to create cookie cutters, fondant stamps, and other high-detail kitchen 3D prints with one machine.

                  Standout Features
                  • 4K LCD screen
                  • Fast print speeds
                  • Decent build volume (for MSLA)
                    • Technical Details
                      Build Volume 143 x 89 x 175 mm
                      Max. Extruder Temp N/A
                      Max. Bed Temp N/A
                      Bed Leveling N/A
                      Connectivity USB
                      Compatible Materials 405 nm UV Resin

                      What We Like
                      • Amazing print quality
                      • Fast print times
                      • Great value
                      Could Be Better
                      • Requires food safe resin or epoxy
                      • No air filter

                      Find Elegoo Mars 3 at

                      AmazonELEGOOMatterHackers

                      Buying a 3D Printer for Cookie Cutters: What to look for

                      Heat-up time

                      How long the hot end and bed take to reach the necessary print temperatures is a large part of how quickly you can produce your cookie cutters. If you want to print cutters to sell, print times can be a huge factor in what kind of order volume you can handle.

                      It will also determine how quickly you can go from a 3D model to baked cookies. This is especially important if you want to make money with your 3D printer by making custom cookie cutters for your bakery or business.

                      Image: Emily Wolfel

                      Noise Levels

                      If you plan to spend a lot of time around your 3D printer while it is running, you should think about printing noise. Some printers are quite loud during printing and can be disruptive if you print a lot or need to use the printer at night while others nearby might be asleep.

                      However, if you have your printer running in an adjacent space like a garage or workshop, the printing noise probably isn’t as much of a concern.

                      Enclosure

                      An enclosure for your 3D printer is necessary in order to work with some filaments. High-temperature materials like ABS and PETG work best with an enclosed 3D printer, because the case traps the heat inside and reduces temperature variations that cause warping.

                      Enclosed printers are also a good idea if you plan to keep your printer in your living space. Filaments can give off 3D printing fumes as they melt, which can be potentially damaging when breathed in on a regular basis. It can also overwhelm your home with strong odors that linger even after the print is finished.

                      With a 3D printer enclosure, most of the fumes stay contained within the printing chamber. Some 3D printers even come with HEPA filters that filter out odors and harmful particles.

                      User Interface

                      Another thing you should consider when choosing a printer is its user interface.  Look for a printer that is easy to use and has an intuitive interface. That way, you can spend more time printing cookie cutters and less time trying to fumble through confusing menu screens.

                      This is also an important factor if you will use the machine to introduce 3D printing to your kids. A printer with a simple and easy-to-use interface will make it less frustrating for them when they are trying to learn how to use the printer.

                      Kit vs. Pre Assembled

                      One of the most important factors in choosing a 3D printer model is assembly. While some printers come ready to use out of the box like most other commercial electronics, others require assembly.

                      3D printer kits tend to be more affordable than pre-built printers and are an excellent way to learn how the machine works. On the other hand, this takes quite a bit of time and effort to put them together and can be frustrating for beginners. Some of the lower-end kits also tend to require more calibration and tinkering even after being assembled than other printers as well, which is not ideal if you plan to print cookie cutters on the regular and need a fast turnover time.

                      Best Filament Types For Cookie Cutters

                      PLA

                      PLA (polylactic acid) filament is one of the preferred materials for 3D printing cookie cutters. It’s a low temperature filament, so it doesn’t require a heated bed, enclosure, or all-metal hot end to use it. It’s also a bioplastic made from organic plant matter like corn starch and sugarcane, making it a more natural alternative to some of the harsher petroleum-based printing materials.

                      The most important question, of course, is whether PLA is food-safe. The answer is that PLA is rated as GRAS—generally regarded as safe—in terms of food contact safety. While that isn’t necessarily true for all PLA 3D printer filaments, since they can have additives and contaminants in them, they are still considered much safer than materials like ABS.

                      Recommended:

                      PLA vs ABS: Which Filament is Better?

                      Recommended brands

                      For that reason, it is important to go with a high-quality PLA filament that can be trusted. Our recommendation is to use either Polymaker PolyTerra PLA (budget) or FormFutura PLA (more expensive).

                      Polymaker is a high-quality filament brand that offers excellent print quality and a wide variety of available colors. Their PolyTerra PLA filaments come wound on an eco-friendly cardboard spool. They also plant a tree for every spool purchased, so it is a great option for users who are concerned about their environmental impact.

                      PolyTerra PLA is tougher than regular PLA, making it a good choice when making cookie cutters. Since cutters are thin, that makes them prone to breakage. Any added strength is helpful to keep the print from failing (especially if it has stamp pieces, which can be even more delicate.)

                      Polymaker Matte PLA Filament 1.75mm Black, 1.75 PLA 3D Printer...

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                      For more recommendations, you are welcome to check out our article with the best PLA filament brands currently available.

                      PETG

                      PETG is another common 3D printing material used for making your own cookie cutters. The preferred material for beverage bottles, food containers, and other food contact applications, PETG is a transparent, tough, and food-safe material.

                      While not as unforgiving to work with as materials like ABS or Nylon, PETG requires a maximum extruder temperature of about 250°C. It also requires a heated bed and preferably an enclosure to retain enough heat to keep from warping. Its higher printing temperatures at least give it more heat resistance than PLA, which warps at fairly low temperatures.

                      Recommended brand

                      As a high-quality product available in a wide variety of colors, Prusament PETG filament is one of the best on the market. Not only are they affordable at about $30 per 1kg spool, they undergo a rigorous quality control process to ensure that you receive a consistently great product.

                      Prusament filaments are made by the same people behind the Prusa printer lines, and all filament is made in their facility using carefully sourced and tested materials. Like all PETG products, Prusament PETG filament is strong, with good impact resistance and tensile strength, making it a great option for cookie cutters.

                      Prusament Prusa Orange, PETG Filament 1.75mm 1kg Spool (2.2 lbs),...

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                      Epoxy Coating

                      Using a food-safe epoxy resin coating to cover your printed cookie cutters can make them safer, stronger, and more resilient. Since most of the concern with 3D printing food contact items comes from the microscopic gaps between layers, using epoxy resin can fill and seal them, removing the worry of bacterial growth between the layers. Art Resin is a great option for sealing items with infrequent food contact.

                      ArtResin - Epoxy Resin - Clear - Non-Toxic - 32 oz (16 oz Resin + 16...

                      4,144 Reviews

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                      Frequently Asked Questions

                      Can you make cookie cutters with a 3D printer?

                      Yes, cookie cutters are actually one of the easiest projects to make on a 3D printer. They are flat, which means they don’t have overhangs, bridges, or other difficult printing conditions. It does, however, mean they have trouble with bed adhesion, so choosing a 3D printer with a heated bed and easy leveling system is key.

                      Using an adhesive like a PVA glue stick on the build plate can help prevent warping in your print objects as well.

                      How long does a 3D printer take to make cookie cutters?

                      Print times will vary based on how large the cutter is, but on an FDM 3D printer, a single 100 mm cookie cutter of a basic shape takes about 45-75 minutes to print using average print speeds and layer height. A smaller one will take less time, whereas a larger one will take more time.

                      The amount of detail in the cutter will also affect how quickly you can 3D print cookie cutters. A cookie cutter that outlines a shape will print faster than cutters that have built-in stamping details.

                      Is it safe to 3D print cookie cutters?

                      3D printing items for food contact is a complicated issue. There are several issues that can arise from the 3D printing process that makes it unsuitable for food contact surfaces on its own. Out of all possible food applications, cookie cutters are considered one of the safest, since the contact is extremely brief and the cookies are baked afterward.

                      However, there are several ways to make your 3D printed cookie cutters more food safe:

                      • Use a high quality, FDA-graded food safe, or antimicrobial filament
                      • Coat your cookie cutters in a food-safe epoxy resin
                      • Replace your brass nozzle with a stainless steel nozzle
                      • Try not to use harmful materials (carbon-fiber filament, for example) in the 3D printer for cookie cutters

                      Is it safe to use PLA for cookie cutters?

                      PLA is one of the safer printing materials to use for food-based applications. Studies have found it to be GRAS (Generally Regarded As Safe) for food contact and is already used in many types of food product packaging including containers and plastic wrap.

                      How thick should a 3D printed cookie cutter be?

                      The walls of the 3D printed cookie cutter should be about 0.2mm thick and at least 5mm tall. The base should be thick and wide enough to offer stability to the shape. We recommend at least 3mm wide by 2mm tall.

                      How hard is it to design a cookie cutter for a 3D printer?

                      There are a few different ways for designing cookie cutters for 3D printing, but the easiest way is by using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop to make a basic extrusion model from a vector image (SVG or AI file) for your shape. If you aren’t used to using the Adobe creative suite or some other form of graphic design software, it will take a little time to understand the tools needed, but it is overall an easy process with only a few steps.

                      This video from Joel (the 3D printing nerd) gives you step-by-step instructions for creating cookie cutters using the Adobe creative suite. The tutorial shows you how to convert an image into a vector, but you can also cut out this step by drawing your own or by using a vector file from one of the following websites:

                      • FlatIcon
                      • Vecteezy
                      • FreePik

                      You can also use CAD software to achieve the same results (especially with simple shapes and designs), but it is much easier to use the Illustrator workflow as you get into more detailed print objects.

                      Final Thoughts

                      Choosing a 3D printer for cookie cutters comes down to price, user accessibility, and quality. Since cookie cutters are one of the easier 3D printing projects to do, it’s possible to use a basic printer for it and still get good results. The Creality Ender 3 S1 is our final choice for 3D printing cookie cutters because it’s easy to use, quiet, and comes almost fully assembled.

                      The Prusa i3 MK3S+ is a close second, with buying options for a kit or fully assembled 3D printer depending on your budget. It also has advanced mesh bed leveling, a filament sensor, and a power loss recovery, leading to fewer failed prints and less wasted time.

                      Do you still have questions about 3D printing cookie cutters? Let us know in the comments!

                      Top 6 Best 3D Printers For Cookie Cutters - Ranked

                      You probably have an idea for a cool and unique cookie cutter that’d be perfect for your next big bake — but know you’re never going to find it at the store. They always have the same lackluster selection that doesn’t inspire anyone to get baking.

                      However, by using a 3D printer and a custom design, you can create one-of-a-kind cookie cutters for anything you could possibly think of. Whether it’s to surprise a family member or to make baking a fresh batch fun, we have found a selection of 3D printers that can help.Some fun Pokemon-themed 3D printable cookie cutters.

                      For baking, a 3D printer opens up completely new dimensions and shapes for cutting cookie dough. Think of those unusual animal shapes your kids specifically asked for that are otherwise impossible to find. 3D printers are so versatile that as long as you have the 3D file, you can create almost anything — so your Star Wars Yoda or Batman-themed cookie cutter is a breeze to print. You have endless ways of making the family smile.

                      So we’ve listed our top choice 3D printers for cookie cutters. Have a read, pick the best choice for you, and then at the end of this article we link to 50+ 3D printable cookie cutters you’ll be able to make with your new printer!

                      Important: We have only picked FDM 3D printers. Some other articles online have recommended resin 3D printers for 3D printing cookie cutters, but you should NOT use resin parts with food. All resins are toxic when liquid and uncured, and almost all are still not food-safe when they have been 3D printed. Do NOT follow the advice of these other websites, it is dangerous.

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                      Best 3D Printers For Cookie Cutters

                      1.

                      Creality Ender 3 – Best 3D Printer For Cookie Cutters Under $200
                      • Price: $189 — Available on Creality Store here / Available on Amazon here

                      Pros

                      • Generous build volume
                      • Makes high-quality prints
                      • Works well with different filaments

                      Cons

                      • Comes as a kit (although it is easy to assemble)

                      Many people consider the Creality Ender 3 to be the best 3D printer under $200, but the benefits go way beyond the affordable price tag. 

                      There are features that more expensive printers don’t always offer, such as a build volume of 220 x 220 x 250mm. Most cookie cutters are going to fall well within this size, and you should even be able to print multiple cookie cutters at once. This also makes it a versatile 3D printer that can be used for a multitude of other projects. We’ve even heard of people using wood filament with the Ender 3 to make a wooden Groot.

                      It comes as a kit, but can be assembled within 45 minutes, and that is for a complete novice.  

                      Printing with flexible materials is made easier by the compact filament pathway. Because of this, you won’t likely experience any messy aftermath from over extruding. The heated build plate also ensures warping is less likely to occur.

                      It is well equipped for working with PLA which is a good choice of filament in terms of food safety, although you should always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines first. Other materials that the Ender 3 excels with include ABS and TPU, great for small hobby projects.

                      The popularity of this 3D printer means new upgrades are always available. There is also an active online community of users who can help problem solve, and responsive customer service from Creality themselves.

                      2. Monoprice Voxel – Best Cookie Cutter 3D Printer (If You’re A Beginner)

                      • Price: $399 — Available on Amazon here

                      Pros

                      • Built-in Wi-fi and touchscreen display
                      • Compact design
                      • Plenty of compatible materials

                      Cons

                      • Smaller build volume

                      Manufacturing in the USA, Monoprice is a company that has been making 3D printers since 2002. We like the portable size of the unit, but this FDM printer does have a smaller build volume of 150 x 150 x 150mm. Still, this should be plenty enough for cookie cutters so the children are not going to be disappointed. 

                      We can forgive the smaller capacity because what you do get is a compact 3D printer that is easily portable thanks to the lightweight design. Watching the progress is always fun, and clear plastic on three sides gives a view of how each print is going. The 50-micron minimum layer thickness allows for smooth prints.

                      Its built-in Wi-fi and touch screen interface result in a gentle introduction into the world of 3D printing. This, combined with a simple setup, make the Monoprice Voxel a user-friendly option for a beginner. 

                      The build plate is flexible enough to make cookie cutters easy to remove without the need to dig them out with tools. We did say it is user-friendly!

                      The last thing you want with a cookie cutter is misshapen results, so the fact that warping is reduced by the heated closed wall chamber is good news. It also means that using ABS on other projects is fine. In terms of compatible materials, PLA, PVA, HIPS, and PETG are commonly used to make a high-spec of crafts with this impressive 3D printer. 

                      3. Anycubic Vyper – Best Value 

                      • Price: $429 — Available on Anycubic Store here / Available on Amazon here

                      Pros 

                      • Can be built in 30 minutes
                      • Automatic leveling feature
                      • Fan cooling system

                      Cons

                      • A little noisier than some of the competition

                      Another budget FDM printer, the Anycubic Vyper is one of the easiest to build as it takes a maximum of 30 minutes before it is up and running. There are plenty of features intended to make life easier, most notably the automatic leveling feature. It removes a lot of the fiddly guesswork that comes with setting up the 3D printer so the user can get to grips with the 4.3 inch LCD color touchscreen display.

                      The built-in accessories drawer is good for hiding tools, and connectivity is simple. Those new cookie-cutter files can be uploaded via an SD card or by using a USB cable to connect to a laptop. 

                      Intuitive features such as the dual 3015 radial fans cooling system make it great for printing multiple homemade projects that you want to use ASAP. Yes, a set of cookie cutters can be made in a few hours.

                      Anyone looking to print miniature models will get a lot of joy out of this 3D printer, especially with the 245 x 245 x 260 mm build volume. Although there are cheaper alternatives, it is reasonably priced for a reliable FDM printer that thinks more like a human than a lot of the competition.

                      4. Qidi Tech X-Plus – Most Versatile

                      • Price: $699 — Available on Amazon here

                      Pros

                      • 270 x 200 x 200 mm platform
                      • Automatic bed leveler
                      • Compatible with a lot of different materials

                      Cons

                      • Can take a little getting used to

                      Wifi connectivity and the ability to turn a computer into a user interface make this 3D printer from China-based company Qidi Tech great for customizing prints.

                      The 5-inch touchscreen display is intuitive and ensures making adjustments such as fill density and print speed are a lot easier.

                      It is a great 3D printer for making cookie cutters but a lot of people want to be able to experiment with a variety of crafts. This is why it is good that the X-Plus comes with two different nozzles: one for standard PLA, TPU and ABS 3D printing, and a tougher high-temperature nozzle for filaments like Nylon and PC.

                      It is precise, versatile, and the layer thickness starts at 0.05mm. We also like that it can be used in a professional environment because of the low 40dB of noise output.

                      5. Prusa i3 MK3S+ – Best 3D Printer For Cookie Cutters Under $1,000

                      • Price: $749 for kit / $999 fully assembled — Kit available here / Fully Assembled available here

                      Pros

                      • Max speed of 200mm/s
                      • Large build volume
                      • Incredibly accurate prints
                      • Available as a kit for $250 less

                      Cons

                      • Kit takes a while to assemble

                      An elite FDM 3D printer, the i3 MK3S+ has been turning industry heads picking up so many awards it was like the machine printed them itself.  

                      There is a generous build volume of 250 x 210 x 210mm so it will make light work of printing cookie cutters. It can also speed things up a bit, printing taller objects such as a 3D printed vase in one go. Prusa’s in-house technicians have tweaked and improved this 3D printer over the years, so it is hardly surprising that the 50-micron resolution of the latest model makes flawless prints.

                      We like that the company caters to different budgets so more people can use one of the best 3D printers on the market. You can save around $250 by purchasing the build kit rather than the assembled version, and the building process can be really fun and rewarding, too.

                      There are plenty of upgrades available, and anyone making miniatures will want to consider the multi-material upgrade kit that allows it to print in 5 colors. For us, it stands up against and betters many 3D printers that are more than double the price. 

                      6. Qidi Tech X-Max – Great For Home Businesses

                      • Price: $1,099 — Available on Amazon here

                      Pros

                      • Can handle a wide range of materials
                      • Very reliable and and sturdy
                      • Enclosed chambers for reduced warping
                      • Wifi connectivity

                      Cons

                      • Could be a little pricey for some

                      You get the sense that this is well-built thanks to the metal structure, making it one of the sturdiest 3D printers available.  

                      Cookie cutters don’t take up a lot of room, but the 300 x 250 x 300mm of build volume is going to give cosplay hobbyists plenty of options. This, and the reliable prints that are consistently accurate makes it great for a home business. 

                      Speaking of which, it can handle nylon and TPU, so this is certainly a machine for advanced projects. When it is finished, the bendable, magnetic build plate can be used to ease the prints off.

                      As you might expect from a 3D printer over $1,000, it does make life easier for the user. The Wifi connectivity, touchscreen display that is easy to use, and small touches like a light within the unit all help to improve the useability. 

                      Being able to print up to 100 microns is going to be vital for a hobbyist looking to create intricate prints with any detail. Still, its strength lies in printing PLA and similar materials, so cookie cutters will be easy work for this versatile and reliable FDM 3D printer.

                      We like it because it has a professional feel to it, without a professional price tag.  

                      Further reading

                      • 50+ cool 3D printed cookie cutters you can print at home
                      • The best 3D printers for miniatures
                      • The best 3D printers for beginners

                      Biscuit cutter business and happy 100th Hercules

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                      Good afternoon! My name is Evgeniy Rubtsov, founder of 3Dform company.

                      Our company is engaged in the manufacture of equipment for confectioners, in particular forms of stamps and cuttings for gingerbread, stencils using 3D printing.

                      I want to share my story of creating a business related to additive technologies.

                      I became interested in this topic 6 years ago, when I saw an article on the Internet about printing medical devices using a 3D printer. I really liked this idea, and I thought it would be great to do this kind of business too. But, then 3D printers were only American, and cost about 300,000 rubles.

                      However, the idea did not die out, over time the printer market expanded, affordable models appeared. And 4.5 years ago, my wife and I decided to purchase a 3D printer, hoping to get additional income with it, at that moment the main activity was different.

                      I started to study the market, I did not want to take a Chinese-made model, and the American ones were much more expensive. Therefore, I began to look for a Russian manufacturer. At that time, I found 2 options - Picasso and Hercules.

                      At that time we did not yet know whether this type of activity would work for us, and whether it would be possible to understand 3D printing at all. Therefore, they were looking for a budget option, “for testing”.

                      My choice fell on Hercules, as I was attracted by the price, which was lower than that of the competitor, and the declared functionality of the model.

                      When buying, we got the lucky number 100, and a discount on this occasion.

                      On this positive note, our journey into 3D printing began.

                      First time.

                      The first print took me... 2 weeks! Since this was the first experience, it took time to figure everything out on my own. Internet resources helped out a lot - thematic forums, Telegram channels, YouTube and, of course, the manufacturer's technical support service.

                      Now disassembling-assembling printer parts or changing components yourself is not a problem.

                      Initially, we planned to print souvenirs, we were engaged in it for 2 months, we began to look for a segment where we could still apply 3D printing so that our products would be more in demand. So we started printing forms for confectioners, the first orders went. Printed to order for each client.

                      At the same time, we began to actively promote the company in social networks - on Instagram, VK, Odnoklassniki. We posted examples of our products and added confectioners as friends. From that moment on, our business went uphill, regular customers and a regular flow of orders appeared.

                      Now the question of expanding the business has arisen, since it has become impossible to cope with the volume of work on one printer.

                      We no longer had the question of which manufacturer to choose - we bought 9 more small Hercules and 1 Hercules Strong - we took it because of the need to print large-sized products.

                      By the way, these printers are completely satisfied in terms of their productivity and print quality, marriage does not happen often. And the accuracy of printing is very important to us, and I am very scrupulous about this. If we are talking about molds for gingerbread, especially, because the mold consists of two parts - the outer contour and the inner one, they should ideally match each other in size and shape.

                      Now we have already entered many marketplaces, such as Wildberries and Ozon, we continue to develop social networks and we have our own permanent assortment of certified products.

                      For printing, we use only Pla plastic, since our products are intended for food production, and it fully meets the requirements for this, the material is purchased from the company "bestfilament", therefore, if necessary, we can always provide quality certificates.

                      We are still working together with my wife, but we are already planning to hire an assistant and buy more Hercules printers to further scale the business.

                      This is how 3D technologies turned for our family from a source of additional income into a stable and steadily growing company.

                      features, pros and cons of each model

                      04/07/2021

                      Contents0068

                    • Scope of use
                    • used raw materials
                  • Types of food 3D printers
                  • Popular manufacturers
                  • TOP-10 Best food printers: List of the most relevant models
                    • 1. Pancakebot 2.0
                    • 2. WIIBOOTOOOOL 3. Choc Creator V2.0 Plus
                    • 4. Food 3D printer Choc Creator V2.0 Plus with cold chamber
                    • 5. byFlow Focus
                    • 6. Chefjet Pro
                    • 7. Foodini
                    • 8. Mmuse – Chocolate 3D Printer
                    • 9. ZBOT Commercial Art Pancakes Printer F5
                    • 10. ZMorph VX
                  • Selection guide
                  • Output
                  • 9007 A food printer is a high-tech device that is used to create culinary masterpieces. The decorative design of food products has reached a new level thanks to the use of modern technologies: high-quality and large-format printing is carried out on cakes, waffles, pancakes and even coffee. Here are the top best 3D food printers in different price categories for people who are fond of cooking.

                    What is a 3D food printer


                    The main feature of a food 3D printer is the raw materials used: instead of printing ink, the device is filled with edible ingredients. The database stores a large number of different recipes, and in order to print a dish, you just need to select one of them and activate the printing process. The final product is layered on a work surface or on a plate: it can be baked in the oven or sent to the freezer.

                    Application


                    Futuristic 3D Printed Sugar Candy


                    Cookies printed with glaze


                    Chocolate logos of famous companies


                    Cream Photo Print

                    Buying a food 3D printer is worth the owners of coffee houses, author's bakeries and private workshops. The finished product has a unique shape and bright appearance. Food printers are often used to create custom wedding cakes, cartoon character cookies, Christmas gingerbread cookies, and so on. The possibilities of a baker who owns such a device are endless: the main thing is to buy quality products.

                    Raw materials used

                    The following ingredients are used as raw materials:

                    • Chocolate without additives and impurities;

                    • Mastic;

                    • Sugar;

                    • Whipped cottage cheese;

                    • Vegetable and fruit pastes;

                    • Fish and meat pates;

                    • Flour;

                    • Cheese, etc.

                    The confectionery pattern is applied to sugar, wafer or shock transfer paper. The first type has a sweetish aftertaste and aroma of vanilla. Due to the snow-white surface, no additional coating is required: the drawings look bright and clear. The wafer paper is made from rice flour and does not have a special taste, due to the light shade, the final drawings look less clear. Shock transfer paper is completely transparent and is suitable for transferring a design to a product (for example, a cake). For the packaging of finished products, food-grade plastic for a 3D printer is used.

                    Interesting! Food printers are involved in waste reduction. Unattractive fruit and confectionery leftovers are used in the preparation of printing mixes. This makes it possible to use the means of production more efficiently.

                    Types of 3D food printers


                    Cooking enthusiasts can take advantage of the following food printing devices:

                    1. Food 3D printers are devices that print dishes whose recipes are listed in a database. The final product is layer-by-layer superimposed on the work surface, and the raw material comes from filled cartridges;

                    2. Confectionery printers are used to transfer images onto specialty paper or to design small confectionery products such as candies. Such printers print an image on pre-prepared paper: rice, wafer or shock transfer;

                    3. Food plotters transfer the image not to paper, but directly to the finished product. For example, a plotter is used to transfer an image directly onto a cake.

                    There are several types of food 3D printers:

                    • Extrusion - paint is applied to the surface before the dish is created. The process is controlled by the computer with the loaded image. The system has an extruder that heats the food mixture, and the distribution of raw materials depends on the print head. The raw material is loaded into a syringe placed in the head. This means that in order to combine different shades, you have to periodically stop printing and change the syringe;

                    • A carousel-type food 3D printer also has an extruder, but its main feature is the method of feeding raw materials: the containers rotate around the working surface, the supply and dosage of the material used depends on the recipe specified in the program. The storage can contain countless recipes, and operation does not cause difficulties even for an inexperienced user.

                    Popular brands

                    Eminent manufacturers offer the best value for money food 3D printer. Quality devices provide accurate printing, high speed, durability, simplicity and ease of use.

                    Wiibox

                    This company manufactures 3D printers with high build quality and high productivity. These are universal mechanisms that fill both chocolate paste and mashed potatoes. Numerous positive reviews confirm the high quality of Wiibox products.

                    byFlow

                    The Dutch company byFlow specializes in food printing technology. The pursuit of excellence helps the company open up new horizons: the technique prints products from spinach, meat emulsion and other materials. High build quality, ease of use and durability - all these characteristics are applicable to the products of this company.

                    Choc Edge

                    Choc Edge is committed to revolutionizing the world of chocolate making. Numerous experiments and focus on consumer feedback help to create more powerful devices that provide the optimal temperature for preparing and storing chocolate figures.

                    Attention! Printing dishes helps save time on cooking: instead of culinary worries, the user can simply activate the printing process and get on with other things.

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                    Top 10 Best Food Printers: Most Current Model List

                    Before you buy a food 3D printer, you need to familiarize yourself with the most popular devices on the world market. The top is based on ratings and customer reviews.

                    1. PancakeBot 2.0


                    PancakeBot 2.0 is easy to use, which means it's suitable for inexperienced users too. Users can choose from suggested designs in the software, or create their own. Used to print pancakes.

                    Pros:

                    • Ease of operation;

                    • A wide range of proposed projects;

                    • High speed.

                    Cons:

                    2. Wiiboox Sweetin


                    Buying a food printer from Wiiboox is worth not only for confectionery lovers, but also for ordinary chefs: the device prints cakes, cookies and even mashed potatoes. The main raw materials can be meat, cheese, chocolate, jam, mashed potatoes, dough and much more. A convenient touch panel helps to set the desired mode of operation, and a stylish appearance complements the interior of any establishment.

                    Pros:

                    • Versatility: the ability to print not only sweet dishes, but also side dishes;

                    • Attractive appearance;

                    • High build quality;

                    • Convenient control by touch panel.

                    Cons:

                    • High price.

                    3. Choc Creator V2.0 Plus


                    When talking about which chocolate 3D printer to buy, it is worth mentioning the numerous advantages of Choc Creator V2.0 Plus. The new model has become more perfect: the developers have worked hard to eliminate the shortcomings of the previous version. The modern model has small dimensions, thanks to which it can be used in any kitchen, and the uniform heating of the syringe ensures high-quality and uninterrupted operation. In practice, the chocolate printer has shown tremendous potential: it prints complex figures from chocolate.

                    Pros of :

                    • Attractive appearance;

                    • Uninterrupted work;

                    • Durability;

                    • The ability to create durable and beautiful chocolate figures.

                    Cons :

                    4.

                    Food 3D printer Choc Creator V2.0 Plus with cold chamber


                    The new version of the Choc Creator V2.0 Plus printer is equipped with cooling chambers by popular demand. Users say that maintaining the optimal temperature in the room to preserve the integrity of chocolate figures is too problematic: therefore, the new device cools the raw materials. The price of a food 3D printer with a cooling system is slightly higher than a classic one, but the high performance of the final product justifies any costs.

                    Pros of :

                    • Availability of a cooling system for finished products;

                    • High printing precision;

                    • Long service life;

                    • Ease of use: You can turn the fans on and off with the side buttons.

                    Cons :

                    • High price.

                      Attention! Confectionery food 3D printers are often used by artists to create edible masterpieces. This is a unique technology that helps to unleash the creative potential of the chef.

                      5.byFlow Focus


                      Food printer from the Dutch company byFlow, which specializes in 3D printing of food. The compact high-tech device is used for the bakery industry, and the cartridges are suitable for the application of any pasty ingredients.

                      Pros:

                      Cons:

                      6. Chefjet Pro


                      Buying a ChefJet Pro food printer is a must for people who dream of making bright and stylish sweets. The device is created on the principle of inkjet printing: sugar-containing powder materials are used instead of paints. The final product is made by powder layering. The printer is suitable for combining different shades and creating gradients.

                      Pros:

                      • The ability to create unique flavors;

                      • Neat and bright printing;

                      • Aesthetic appearance of the device.

                      Cons:

                      • High price.

                      7. Foodini


                      The 3D food printer from Foodini works on the principle of a stationary printer, but instead of printing inks, layer-by-layer imposition of edible raw materials is used: dough, cream, chocolate, cream, etc. The device is versatile: the user himself can choose the material, or use ready-made cartridges with products.

                      Pros:

                      • Practicality;

                      • High build quality;

                      • Attractive appearance;

                      • Availability of an online platform with unique recipes.

                      Cons:

                      8. Mmuse – Chocolate 3D Printer

                      The closed MMuse 3D printer is suitable for chocolate printing. Chocolate beans are used as raw materials: they are heated in an extruder and fed to the work surface through the print head.

                      Pros:

                      Cons:

                      9. ZBOT Commercial Art Pancakes Printer F5

                      ZBOT Commercial Art Pancakes Printer F5 3D Printer

                      A food printer from Chinese manufacturers is used in the process of making pancakes of various shapes. Ease of operation allows the device to be used by children under adult supervision.

                      Pros:

                      • Ease of operation;

                      • High build quality;

                      • Affordable cost.

                      Cons:

                      10. ZMorph VX

                      A multifunctional 3D printer capable of printing not only food, but also rubber, ABS plastic, polylactide, PVA, nylon, elastic and metal materials. The product is able to print with chocolate, butter, cookies, icing and other ingredients. In addition, there is a function of engraving and CNC milling.

                      Pros:

                      Cons:

                      • High price.

                      Selection guide

                      The modern market offers a wide range of food printers. Before making a purchase, you need to carefully study the characteristics of each model and build on your own preferences. Experts have created several recommendations for choosing: