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100 useful things you can make with a 3d printer
By Roborefuge
There are a lot of cool things you can make with 3d printers. I’ve seen a lot online and up close. But, wouldn’t 3d printers be more valuable if they can make things that are practical?
Well, I wrote this article for that reason. There are a lot of useful things you can make, especially for the house.
Here are 100 useful things you can make with a 3d printer. Let me know in the comments if you have any more suggestions!
Why Should You Get A 3D Printer?
I believe 3d printers will be in every household in the future. Just like any other technology, 3d printers were originally found in institutions like colleges or labs.
Now, people who are curious about 3d printers can buy one for their homes.
3d printers are the future of manufacturing in my opinion. Getting one now helps you make things around the house. They’re also great for kids who want to get creative. There aren’t a lot of 3d printers in schools nowadays, but that will change soon.
Not only will 3d printers be in schools, but students will be using them in the future to prepare themselves for jobs in the future. But that’s not the best part, 3d printers will also help you save money in the long run.
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How Much Money Can You Save?
The average household in the U.S pays around $2,000 for furnishings in equipment. A low-budget 3d printer costs $200-$500 and can last years. Think of all the products you can make with the 3d printer and how much those items cost. You can save thousands of dollars over the long run.
1. Covid Mask Breather
Source: Thingiverse.comI had to give the most practical item first. If this doesn’t seal the deal for you, then I don’t know what else to give you.
Mask breathers do what it says. It creates space between the mask and your mouth to filter out condensed air. This’ll help if you have musty breath, or didn’t brush your teeth that morning. And, it’s just nice to breath fresh air.
Besides wearing a mask for Covid, you can print different masks as you’ll see soon.
2. Hand-Made Camera Lens
This one blew my mind. Looking at the material for 3d printers, I didn’t think it was possible. But, here we are. Being able to make a camera lens lets you experiment with different pictures. Another thing that’s cool is how much money you save if you break the original lens.
A camera repair service can cost up to $100-$250 on average. A 3d printer can print you a new lens in hours.
This is another example of how you can save money.
3. 3D Printed Acoustic Guitar
You can also create instruments with 3d printers. Here’s a cool video of a guy playing a 3d printed guitar. 3d printed guitars look cool because you don’t usually see one around. You also have the advantage of designing it the exact way you want.
4. Flutes
I mean if you can print a guitar, you can also print some flutes. There are so many different flutes. There are different types for each culture or occasion.
If you’re in middle school, you can print your own recorder flute and bring it to class.
Or, you can make another flute called the “Native American Sparrow Hawk Flute”.
5. Surgical Instruments
Source: 3dsystems.comIf an apocalypse breaks out and you need to perform surgery, a 3d printer can make the tools to do it. Think of all the handheld instruments in surgery. There are clamps, scalpels, forceps, and more.
Surgeons talk about having surgeon-specific tools too. If one tool doesn’t work for you, you can just print another one that’s customized for you. This level of iteration is great for us in the long run.
6. 3D Fetus
You can also make 3d fetuses. This one made me happy. And, the reason why is this type of 3d model can help visually-impaired soon-to-be parents “see” their kids.
3d printed fetuses can be the new ultrasound pic too. Having a “physical” version of your child sounds cooler than a pic to me.
7. 3D Figurines From Children’s Drawings
Once your child is born, you can also print their drawings.
Creating and building is fun. Your child can create the drawing and build it with a 3d printer. Taking your ideas and making them real is fulfilling. Letting your child do this will spark their creativity.
Here are some examples of 3d figurines from drawings.
8. 3D Printed Miniature Furniture
Those mini figurines your child makes will need some furniture. Making miniature furniture completes the whole set up. Creating miniature furniture also gives you prototypes for future house decor.
You would take house decor planning to a new level.
9. Iphone Case & Card Holder
The utility of this is self-explanatory. You know what you get just by looking at the title. The question is what type of case/card holder are you going to make. Personally, my case contains a card holder that holds everything snug. A better idea would be to create one that opens up like a door.
10. Electric Bike
Source: Theverge.comYou thought it couldn’t get crazier I bet.
Well, this 3d printed bike sounds wild.
This specific bike was made in one go. There was no need for attaching support parts to complete the bike. A 3d printed bike also means less support parts to worry about. Another impressive part is this bike is more durable and stronger than regular bikes.
11. Gun
Technology also makes controversial things. However you feel about guns, just know it’s possible to build with 3d printers. Printing a working gun is another case though. There’s more science to set off the fire arm. Making the actual model is easier as all you need are the files.
Maybe one day 3d printers can print a whole working gun.
12. Camping Wraps
If you’re bringing a lot of things for camping, then you can use wraps to keep things organized. Instead of spending time untangling wires, you can spend a few hours making 3d printed wraps.
3d printing doesn’t only save money, it saves time too.
13. Cantilever Laser Engraver
Just saw this bad boy.
I honestly didn’t know what a laser engraver was until the time of this article. But, now that I know of it, I can see how it could be useful. A laser engraver is exactly what it sounds like. It engraves designs through lasers.
This could be used to engrave family names onto some of your property. It can also be used to engrave the entrance of your home too.
A laser engraver isn’t something you come across everyday. But, with a 3d printer, you can get a lot closer than before.
14. Hanging Light
You can print a circular object with an opening and you’re close to having lights. All you need is the bulb and you’re good to go. This is one way you can make hanging lights. If you need light in a specific area, but don’t have all the tools, a 3d printer can help you get creative.
15. Robotic Arm
Source: Thingiverse.comI love this. An industrial robot creating another industrial robot makes me think robots will be creating themselves soon. If you know how to wire and code a robot, you might be able to create a whole army of robots starting with a 3d printer.
A robotic arm can help you with monotonous tasks. Having a bunch of robotic arms can also help you get rid of tasks you don’t like doing. This frees you up for more play time.
16. Coffee Cups
Coffee lovers need their mugs. There’s nothing like waking up to a fresh pot with your favorite cup. Being able to design your own mug is cool. A little morning slogan on your cup is a nice touch. You can also design your own coffee cup holder.
17. Flight Sim Joystick
Future pilots will find this more valuable than others. A flight sim joystick is similar to a practice steering wheel. Instead of buying one, you’ll save more by creating your own. Just remember that an actual flight joystick isn’t fully ready with 3d print.
You still have to finish the base so you can move back and forth mimicking real life.
18. 3D Printed Fabrics
If you want to be stylish and help the planet then 3d printed fabrics is one way. This type of fabric uses less labor, and is recyclable.
Saving the planet and having people spend less time manufacturing frees them up. It turns into creating more useful things.
People who want to go out the box can also create unique designs on their fabric. There’s a lot to like with 3d printed fabrics.
19. Customizable 3D Printed Bugdroids
Android fans can make their own bug model. These are usually colored green, but you can use different filaments to color them differently. Try printing some bugdroids and let me know what you think. Bugdroids are great for testing the quality of your printer.
20. Target Pen Holder
Source: Thingiverse.comMessy people like yours truly will find this useful. It seems like I’m always looking for a pen even though I rarely use one nowadays. A pen holder will keep me from embarrassing myself. These things can go from $10-$20 too. Being able to save some change with your own design is fulfilling.
A pen holder is one of the many pieces of furniture you can print.
21.
Divers WatchI’ve never heard of a divers watch, but they look expensive. If you told me this is a Rolex I might believe you. The fact this is even possible with a 3d printer is hilarious. This particular watch is bigger than it looks because it’s made for the desk. It took 131 individual parts with a total of 30 hours of printing time.
22. Jesus Cross Pendant
If you come from a religious Catholic/Christian family, then you definitely have some sort of religious figure in the house. I personally come from one and they’re everywhere. There’s a Last Supper painting in my kitchen as we speak.
3d printers make it possible to print a Jesus Cross Pendant. You can make one for your desk or workspace.
23. Bikinis
A customized bikini sounds like a cost-saver. For women, this sounds like an opportunity to have a new bikini every time they hit the beach. Similar to fabrics, creating your own bikini with 3d printers means less labor, and more green efficiency.
I wouldn’t be surprised to see this in runways soon.
24. Blood Type Tags
Letting people know your blood type is important for survival. This is why some waivers ask for it. 3d printers can make you a blood type tag just in case someone needs to know your blood type.
25. LED Lamp
Source: Thingiverse.comThis is a nice lamp to set an ambience. The 3d printer can handle the build easily. The rest of the build depends on how you handle electronics.
You’re going to need to know information about batteries, and circuitry to finish this. Nonetheless, you can place this LED lamp on your desk along with other items you made.
26. Megaphone
Unlike the LED lamp, the megaphone doesn’t need electronic skills. All you need is the print files and you can make one in hours. A megaphone is useful for parties you throw around the house. There are many ways you can design this, let me know which one you go with.
27. Candy Dispenser
I hate having to open packages up continuously for snacks.
A candy dispenser makes this inconvenient problem easy.
If you have kids, you might want to place this in an area that’s hard to reach. Your dispenser will be empty in a day or two if you don’t.
28. Hamster House
It’s hard to print a whole dog house because those are huge. But, a hamster house is the next best thing. If you use the whole print bed, your hamster will be thinking it’s living in a mansion. It should be fun creating this for a pet hamster.
You can create pathways for your hamster to run through which is enjoyable in and of itself.
29. Ratchets
A ratchet is perfect for big cables. You can use this for television cables, equipment cables, and more. There are countless places in the household with cables. The cool thing about printing a ratchet is they’re quick to print. You should be able to print one in an hour or two.
30. Combination Lock
Source: Cults3d.comA combination lock is one of the most interesting products you can make.
What’s cool is you don’t need much support equipment. Some glue and bolts will finish the assembly.
One thing you have to understand is 3d printers can’t print with metal. A combination lock, which is usually made out of metal won’t be as secure if it’s made out of plastic. Plastic is easier to break.
The lock should still prove difficult to break though. Just keep your expectations in check.
31. Collapsible Dice Holder
This one reminds me of dungeons and dragons. But, a dice holder like this prevents someone from rolling the dices off the boards. It’s also a cool way to roll the dice. If you’re a big board game person, this is a nice addition to the set.
32. Anti Gravity Planter
Perfect for mini plants. An anti-gravity planter makes a plant look like it’s hovering. Make sure you have soil and give the plant the water it needs.
33. Metric Screw Measuring Device
This is a good tool for all the things you’re going to make. Being able to make things with something you made from a 3d printer is very meta.
Get yourself a screw measuring device if you plan on building a lot in the future.
34. Stand For Cotton Swabs
Another great storage furniture. Cotton swabs don’t get mentioned a lot when it comes to household necessities, but they need something to hold them.
You can design this stand which holds swabs and cotton. It’s especially helpful if you, or someone you know wears makeup. This stand can store all the items they need to clean up.
35. Blade Holder
Source: Thingiverse.comIt gets messy when shaving hair. It gets even messier when you place those blades in a bag. What makes having a blade holder convenient is you can find the blade you’re looking for faster.
This also doesn’t take long to make. If you’re looking for a project, then this is an idea. It’s also a great starter project for new 3d printer users.
36. Credit Card Wallet
A credit card wallet can also be the iphone case/card holder. But, if you want to print something less complex, then get this.
This specific credit card wallet takes 8 hours to print.
37. Underdesk Drawer
I have a bunch of pencils, pens, and paper on my desk. A nice under desk drawer remedies that. I can just stuff everything in there to keep the illusion of cleanliness. Hanging the under desk drawer shouldn’t be too hard either.
38. Warning Signs
Place warning signs on your backyard doors with this. It’ll warn potential intruders, or first-time visitors. You can also use it for children who might not know better. A couple examples to place warning signs for children are stairs and stoves.
Just make sure to make those warning signs huge. Children can be oblivious when playing.
39. Water Diffuser
A water diffuser is great for backyards. If you don’t want to drown your plants, but need to water them routinely, try out this water diffuser design.
40. Cable Clips
Source: Thingiverse.comThis is similar to a ratchet. But, the difference is the size. Cable clips are smaller and can grasp smaller cables better.
Try it on thin cords like phone or laptop chargers.
41. Photo Frames
Yes, photo frames are possible. It’s not that hard to imagine though considering the items on this list. Being able to print photo frames means you can go a little crazy taking pictures. Just make sure you have enough filament.
42. Multipurpose Apple Charging Dock
If you’re in the Apple ecosystem, then you’ll find huge value in this. Having a multipurpose Apple charging dock charges your phone, charges your Airpods, and hangs your Apple watch.
You might even be able to incorporate your laptop somewhere. It all depends on the design you go with.
43. Costumes
The options you have with costumes is crazy. You’re able to print masks, dresses, and accessories. The only limitation is your imagination. Check out this article on some ideas.
44. Rice Paddle
Rice paddles are one of my best friends when it comes to food. It feels satisfying to grab a big portion of rice and placing it on your plate.
What’s great about this is it’s not complex for a printer to make. The design is straightforward.
45. Keys
Source: 3dprint.comThis can be a combo piece to your combo lock. Similar to rice paddles, they’re not too difficult to make. I’m surprised 3d printer keys aren’t more popular. If you take the concept of keys and locks, you can create a unique lock that wouldn’t even look like a lock.
This will confuse potential thefts.
46. Towel Holder
Instead of manually rolling paper towels have a towel holder do it for you. The one I linked to is stable and durable. That specific towel holder can be used without holder caps and it can be placed on the bottom of a cupboard.
47. Laptop Case
You’ve seen the different type of laptop cases out there. Some of them look basic in a good way. This means you can print yourself one just by getting the dimensions of your laptop.
You can even go above and beyond and add a batman logo or what not.
48.
Board Game PiecesAvid Monopoly players rejoice! You can now replace your favorite missing pieces. In fact, you can make new pieces. Add to the experience of board games by creating your own pieces.
49. Golf Ball Clip
This is another way to organize your golf balls. If you have a special golf ball, you can use a golf ball clip to hold it upright in a special place.
50. Toy Kettlebell
Source: Thingiverse.comHaving a toy kettlebell made me laugh. I’m sure this is not as heavy as a real kettlebell. But, you can still use this for exercises.
As long as the handle is right, you can perform the same exercises as if you had a real one.
51. Lunchbox
You probably can’t even tell between a lunchbox that you bought, and a 3d printed one. Furthermore, lunch boxes are usually made out of plastic which is the material most 3d printed items are made out of.
If you don’t have a lunchbox, you know what time it is.
52. Small Toys
Small soldiers, small cars, and more are on the table.
While children are playing with small toys less and less, it’s still cool this is possible.
53. Homo Erectus Skull
All my biologists would find this interesting. Shoot, I’m not one and this is interesting. Downloading some files and printing some 3d skulls sounds wild. If I got a chance I would definitely do this as it’s not only fun, it’s educational.
54. Lego Pieces
These things would hurt my feet so bad. Stepping on one is like stubbing your toe on the corner of the bed.
A 3d printer will give you the chance to step on more. In addition, they also help you finish large lego models. If you’re missing a piece, you can just print the remainder to finish it off.
55. Kitchen Utensils
Source: Thingiverse.comHaving a 3d printer make you a spoon and fork is like having plastic utensils.
This person made a spork with their printer. You can even try something new and make a kitchen utensil that combines a spoon, fork, and knife.
56.
VaseHold your flowers in a spiral shape vase. There’s no big difference between a bought vase and a 3d printed one. You can even make a mix-colored vase if you want to. Try different shaped vases too. Don’t just go with a spiral one.
57. Ventilation Cover
Try making a ventilation cover if you’ve had the same one for years. Sometimes ventilation covers are so old you’ll just be bringing in old air from the cover itself.
58. Piggy Bank
What if you use 3d printed money and put it in your 3d printed piggy bank? Another meta situation. I’m not sure if there is pink filament, but I’m sure a 3d printed piggy bank would be hard to break. Tearing plastic apart isn’t as easy as smashing metal.
59. Microphone Stand
If you have a karaoke mic you can use a microphone stand. Not many karaoke sets come with one that I know of. It’s also nice having a microphone stand because you don’t want your microphone rolling around.
60. Mini Mechanical Mouse
Source: Thingiverse.
comBuilding a mechanical mouse is going to need electronic skills. With a 3d printer, you can print the whole case. You might need to use the insides of another mouse to get your new mouse to work though. Try something similar to what this person did.
61. Dead Blow Hammer
You can also smash things if you want. If 3d printers can make guns, what’s wrong with hammers.
In all seriousness though, the ability to make a hammer helps you make other things. A dead blow hammer helps minimize damage to the targets and is easy to control. This way you won’t bend nails out of shape.
62. Knife Holder
A knife holder is super valuable. Even though it does one thing, that one thing saves a lot of pain. You can do a combo for a 3d printer by making knives and a knife holder. Making a 3d printer knife might not come out as sharp as you need though.
63. Bookmark
A simple, but useful tool. I always lose my favorite bookmarks. Having a 3d printer is a convenient way to replace things.
One thing is a 3d printed bookmark won’t be as thin as a paper one. Other than that, a 3d printed bookmark will work just fine. Just make sure it’s dry before placing it in your book.
64. Headphone Stand
I find this one valuable. People who spend a lot of time on their computer use headphones of some kind. Having a nice headphone stand keeps your desk cleaner than usual.
65. Desk Riser
Source: Thingiverse.comThis is a nice complement to the desk you work on. If you’re starting to have neck problems, having a desk riser helps.
66. HEV Charger
This Half Life USB charger is based on the game “Half Life” and it comes with sounds from the game. This charger is used to charge your USBs. The case can be made with the 3d printer, but the full assembly requires electronic skills.
67. Watering Can
Combine your filter with this water can to grow beautiful plants. There’s nothing special about this tool, but it’s effective. I would recommend giving it multiple colors as one color can be dull.
68. Bottle Pump
There are some messy liquids out there. One of them is syrup. Having a bottle pump helps you dispense the syrup neatly. You can also use this for soap.
Try and make your bottle pump adaptable to different bottle sizes though. Another tip is to not make your pump short. This leaves room for error, and helps the pump get liquid in taller bottles.
69. Measuring Spoons
Retail measuring spoons don’t look much different compared to 3d printed measuring spoons. The set you see here can be customized sizes.
The designer here says there are 2 types of measuring spoons you can make. One that sits flatly on surfaces, and another which allows you to nest a spoon in another.
70. Children’s Chopsticks
Source: Thingiverse.comI remember trying to learn chopsticks. It wasn’t a pleasant experience. Having children’s chopsticks can be beneficial though. Think of it as training wheels. These chopsticks allow you to hold food easily by pinching the 2 sticks together with a larger surface compared to regular chopsticks.
71. Garlic Press
3d printers make a lot of useful kitchen tools. A garlic press is another example. This garlic press is made to be durable. Find the strongest filament you can find to do so.
If you plan on making this, remember to plan on making holes to the press yourself. The designer for this garlic press didn’t like the way the printer made the holes.
72. Bottle Opener
Get yourself a bottle opener if you want to be a hero at the next party. You’re going to need extra equipment to complete this project though. Those items include bolts and rubber bands. At least that’s what the designer of this bottle opener did.
73. Bag Clip
I have a couple bag clips at my place right now. These are great if you need a way to close your chip bags reliably. Nobody likes stale chips. Bag clips are a great first model for printing too. They can print in one piece and are easy to remove from the print bed.
74. Customizable Vacuum Nozzles
Some nozzles reach areas better than others.
This is why you need to have customizable vacuum nozzles. You can print a set of vacuum tools, or print one that’s usable for most vacuums.
75. Soap Holder
Source: Thingiverse.comA soap holder is a must. If you’ve ever tried grasping soap in the shower then you feel my pain. Creating a soap holder with a 3d printer isn’t hard either. You can make one in hours.
Some designers use support parts to complete the holder. Most designers use one piece to create soap holders though.
76. Car Trash Bag Hooks
Perfect for long road trips. Once you’re done with your snacks, just place them in the bag which is hanging thanks to these trash bag hooks.
77. Sketch Frames
A sketch frame makes drawing super easy. It’s almost a cheat code. A sketch frame is easy to build too. You don’t need support parts, or any other extra outside parts.
78. Prosthetics
The gun printing can be viewed as bad. Being able to print prosthetics should be looked at as positive though.
I’m not even going to get into details of how people get it to work because I have no clue.
But, what I do know is this is a great step for people who need them.
79. Door Stop
Dog stops require detailed layer height. You need to make the ridges good so the stop is stable. This piece can be done in one go.
80. Dog Treat Holder
Source: Thingiverse.comYou can create a simple dog snack container. You’ll need to print 2 times to complete this holder though. This model requires multiple parts. The good news is both pieces aren’t hard to print.
81. Toothbrush Case
Toothbrush cases aren’t hard to print. The thing with toothbrush cases are they accumulate gunk quick. They should be routinely replaced. A 3d printer can print you one easily.
82. 3D Printer Scraper
Filaments can be hard to get off the print bed. Doing so the wrong way causes damage to the bed. A 3d printer scraper makes it easier to remove models from the bed. You can make one using 100% filament, or make one with a real blade at the edge.
83. Bag Holder
Now you can have a place for those shopping bags. Every household accumulates bags. We all know that one place we have.
Creating a bag holder keeps things nice and tidy.
84. Power Card Wall Mount
Create this if you hate those pesky cables on the floor. You might have to manually create the smaller holes yourself. It’s a nice addition to the office, or any place crowded with cables.
85. Napkin Holder
Source: Thingiverse.comThe design of a napkin holder can get fancy. The best ones are simple though. This napkin holder might have overhangs due to the design. You can also do a simple design. Besides, most napkin holders aren’t fancy anyway.
86. 3D Speaker Enclosure
Speaker enclosures can get elaborate. This one looks elaborate, but it’s only 2 pieces created by the 3d printer. It covers the top and bottom.
87. Hose Clamp
This model doesn’t require support. It’s a model that can be done quickly. Another thing I noticed about this hose clamp is it doesn’t require anything too detailed.
Similar to the bottle opener, this is a useful yet simple design to help you around the house.
88. Door Lock
You’ve seen 3d printers make utensils, drawers, and now door locks. This piece can be done with 3 separate prints. You have the pin with the pin holder, then the connector on the other side.
89. Dropper Bottle Flat Rack
This rack is useful for artists. You can keep your colors in this rack in an organized fashion. It can also be used for medication. Get yourself a flat rack. You can organize a bunch of items with this.
90. Candle Case
Source: Cults3d.comCandle cases are similar to vases. You can print them in different colors and designs to match the ambience of the room you’re in.
You can get a Christmas candle holder for the holidays, or a single candle case. I would opt for the single case for the first print as it’s easier to make.
91. Chess Set
Printing a chess set takes awhile. You have to print individual pieces and the whole board.
Chess is one of those games that make it worth it though. A good set will last you years and bring you more joy if you give it a chance. I highly recommend this for people who want to exercise their brains in their free time.
92. Wall Socket
Wall sockets can be done in one print. What’s great about 3d printers is you can use different material for each product.
Find the material which works best as a protective barrier.
93. Pulley System
My cousin literally built his own pulley system a couple weeks ago. They’re great for pulling heavy things with leverage. Instead of lifting something from dead weight, use a pulley to make moving things easier. You just need 3 parts and some rope to make one.
Those 3 parts include the pulley wheel, pinwheel, and pulley housing. Here’s a pulley system model to get started.
94. Origami Inspired Forceps
This tool is something I haven’t seen. The designer says you can use this for surgery, space tools, and more.
Forceps like this make me excited for the future of 3d printers. Customizable tools are optimal for unique situations.
95. Center Finder
Source: Thingiverse.comThe more tools you make, the more products you can produce overall. A center finder is applicable for a lot of projects. This tool also helps you save a lot of time.
96. Dial Caliper
A dial caliper is a measurement tool. It measures length, height, and diameter of a specific part. The markings on this tool need to be detailed though or else it’s useless.
If you print this, make sure your printer has great precision.
97. Precision Screwdriver Racks
If you print a lot of screwdrivers, you’ll need screwdriver racks. You don’t need support parts for this either. It’s easy to make. A design like this is common for screwdriver racks.
98. Finger Wrench
You will get in awkward positions building things. A finger wrench can help you when you need to attach a nut to a bolt.
Other times you’ll use it for tight corners.
99. Wrist Rest
3d printers can also make comfortable furniture. A wrist rest is essential for modern life. Think of how many times we’re needed in front of a computer. This wrist rest is made with PLA filament. Use material that are soft so your wrists are comfortable.
100. Small Windmill
Source: Thingiverse.comWindmills provide clean energy. They can get noisy, but impactful. It’ll take awhile to print one though.
Wind energy is used for electricity. Print a lot of these and you can help the whole neighborhood.
Summary
There are a lot of things you can make with a 3d printer. Please don’t think of this as the limit to what a 3d printer can do. We’re in the early stages of the 3d printer revolution. Soon, printers will be faster, and will be able to do more. The room for home manufacturing looks bright.
By Roborefuge
67 Cool Things to 3D Print
3D printing is such a fun way to produce creative work—and it has totally taken off.
Now, creators are using this amazing new technology to create all kinds of wild and wonderful 3D printer projects that were previously all but impossible to make at home.
These 3D printer projects are a great addition to your online design portfolio. This is such a hot space that shows your mastery of this chic craft could win you some big new clients. You can showcase a collection of cool things to 3D print and some of your best 3D printings too.
Want to get in on this cool 3D prints trend? We’ve compiled a list of 67 inspiring 3D printing ideas to fuel your next 3D printer design. So, what can you make with a 3D printer? Well, there’s something cool for everyone!
Next in our list of cool things to 3D print is a simple project that can be completed in approximately one hour and will produce a whistle. It can produce an eye-popping 118db sound, perfect for camping or sporting events.
If there’s one thing we can all agree on, it’s that earbud cords are a pain in the butt to keep organized. They constantly get tangled and eventually produce the dreaded earphone-crackle, rendering your treasured music-makers useless. This is a great example of what you can make with a 3D printer that can improve your everyday life.
A simple toy originally created for Settlers of Catan, this project is durable and (in our opinion) cute. This is one of those 3D printer projects you could use in a few ways: gaming, office desk decoration, children’s toy, you name it! Plus, T-Rexes are (always!) cool.
Organize your desk, and add a little flair at the same time! With these simple 3D printer designs, you’ll have all you need to generate truly unique desktop organizers that not only keep your stuff where it needs to be but look cool as well.
You can 3D print a pencil holder that is unique to your own personality and have others mistaking your pencil holders again.
With a 3D printer you’ll be able to replace your dinnerware with new and original 3D printer designs in no time at all. Take this blueberry-themed bowl, for example. Why stop there? There are numerous other designs for plates and bowls out there to make eating at home a unique experience.
One of the cool things to 3D print is an abstract planter for your succulents and cacti. Why use traditional planters to hold your plants? There are cool 3D prints out there that don’t allow you to skip the traditional clay pots. These modular little guys are modern and fresh and guaranteed to make your mini-garden more attractive.
Measuring Cube
Get rid of those 72 measuring spoons from your utensil drawer and replace them all with a single implement! One of the most immediately useful and cool 3D prints in this list, it’ll make for an interesting tool that others will want when they see it.
Cable Holder
Stop the tyranny of cords taking over your desk and entertainment unit and 3D print some space-saving cable management devices. You’ll cut back on desk clutter and all that cord-related aggravation. These are the blessed 3D printed objects that make life a little less annoying!
Nearly everyone these days has a smartphone, and we’ve likely all had moments where we wanted to prop up our phones for viewing video or photos and had to resort to piled books or whatever else is on hand. And it rarely works out as well as we hope! That makes this tiny project one of the coolest 3D printed objects on the list. Plus, they look like cats. Cats are good.
A perennial childhood favorite, kids love them just as much today. Of course, adults can enjoy these toys, too. They could be just the ticket to break through some creative block!
A truly inspiring 3D printing idea, these pop-out business cards allow you to speak to clients in a way they won’t have experienced many times (if ever) before! Rather than a drab piece of cardboard, hand them a toy they can assemble that speaks much louder than a traditional printed card.
Can’t sit still? Searching for a 3D printer project to help you focus? Look no further. Fidget spinners are an excellent way to occupy your mind, and this 3D printed object will definitely do the trick.
This is probably one of the most fun and cool things to 3D print, these gimmicky little toys are quite literally affixed to food items found in your house. A lemon helicopter? A banana-car? Why not! Easy to print and awesome for providing hours of enjoyment to restless rainy-day kiddos.
Definitely among the most interesting and cool things to 3D print in this list (and showcasing a bit more complexity than other entries), the dragonfly is a tiny little flying machine you can whip up in a short time. It’s perfect for providing a little entertainment for your kids on a rainy day.
Why settle for boring cutlery in your drawer? With minimal effort, you can produce some decorative handles for your eating utensils and wow visitors to your humble abode.
When they inevitably ask “so, what can you print with a 3D printer?”, you can tell them they’re eating with it!
Drop your phone into these useful little devices to amplify the sound from its speakers. They offer surprisingly high-quality sound—and now you don’t need to lug portable speakers around on picnics or at the beach.
If you’re looking for some more simple and cool 3D printing ideas, consider 3D printing a set of drink coasters. Thanks to simple 3D printer designs like this, we won’t need to spend our hard-earned cash on flimsy little discs anymore. Make your own coasters with whatever designs you want, and say goodbye to tacky freebies and over-priced novelty ones. This idea makes for one of the cool things to 3D print as gifts!
If you’re an audiophile, you’ll truly appreciate this entry as one of the best things to 3d print.
By converting audio files, you can create your own records that will play on turntables. Why limit it to music? Record your own special messages to loved ones and send out the love!
Simple 3D printer designs like this are great to have on hand. Hinges are always useful, and come in handy all over the house. These particular designs are super-simple, even by 3D printing standards, requiring just a single step!
With a sliding clasp, these unique chip clip designs work quite well and are fantastically simple things to 3D print.
A larger-scale project than other 3D printing ideas, the Drawing Machine is quite unique: attach a pen and create works of art from files on your computer. This 3D printer project can help you produce invitations, cards or any other manner of drawings.
Some nostalgic old-timey engineering comes into play with these uber-neat 3D printing ideas.
Relive the past and have your desk decorated with a sign that uses something other than LED or LCD displays!
When it comes to 3D printing metal, there are people who may choose to use a laser cutter instead. The reason is that 3D printed projects using metal can be costly and time-consuming. However, the two are quite different. 3D printing is an additive process, while laser cutting is a subtractive process. Depending on your needs, those that are looking to create multiple pieces at a quicker pace may choose the laser cutter as it can conveniently cut multiple materials and larger size.
With digital trends of raw and rustic design, you might be considering 3D printing cool things at home with metal. However, printing metal is extremely costly due to its process and the machinery required. If you’re looking for cool things to 3D print at home with a metal-looking finish, we recommend using materials on the market that can create metal-like 3D printed objects instead.
These materials give the illusion that your 3D printed pencil holder or camera mount is made out of metal but without the actual cost.
Thanks to 3D printing, it has also made highly-customizable prosthesis possible. One of the coolest things about 3D printed prosthesis is that they can create custom fits for the patient and also a much lower cost. Instead of creating static designs that are “one size fits all”, 3D print gives companies the opportunity to create products that are affordable and personalized. What would have cost lots of money to create is now more accessible thanks to 3D printed prostheses.
Beyond science, 3D printed homes and shelters have also become one of the cool things to 3D print across the world. To address the housing issue around the world, companies have been using this technology to print emergency shelters and 3D printed homes. With this technology, companies and cities can build a community in a much shorter amount of time and for a cost cheaper than traditional home building methods.
Each home inside the community can then be purchased at a more affordable cost.
If you love architecture and buildings, companies have created kits that allow people to replicate architectural structures and other cool things with a 3D pen. For boardgame lovers, you 3D print your own figurines by drawing it with your 3D pen. You can also turn your favorite cartoon show characters or movie heroes into 3D. While a 3D pen allows you to draw 2D things to 3D, their limitation tends to be the size of the project you can make. If you’re looking to 3D print a life-size chair, it may be easier to use a printer because 3D pens may not be able to create something as durable.
- Tangram: A super easy and fun game to play with your kids or friends. If you’re going on a road trip or simply trying to pass time, this 3D printed tangram makes for portable entertainment.
- Klöts (Quick shoe ties): Some cool things to 3D print for your kids are these quick shoe ties.
With this project, you’ll spend less time worrying about their shoelaces being undone and risking a fall. - Puzzle Keychain: This heart puzzle is perfect as a gift or personal use. If you’re tight on schedule for an anniversary or valentine’s day gift, this heart puzzle is one of the quickest things to 3D print.
- Door Stop: Some things to 3D print for practical uses are these door stops. Whether you’re using it at home or for your office, printing them is super easy and fast.
- Light Switch Locks: This definitely tops for cool things to 3D print, especially for parents. This awesome tool can prevent your kids from turning the lights on and off at home. Keep certain lights off to save energy.
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Now get out there, get creative, and start turning heads with amazing 3D creations!
Need some more design project inspiration?
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50 3D Printing Ideas
It looks like we'll soon be drowning in useless stuff made for 3D printing projects.
But you can do something that will really be useful! If you're running out of ideas, here's a list of 50 3D printable items you're unlikely to throw away.
Bag clip with screw cap
Now the bag clip will have a new feature - a hole with a lid for quick access, as in the photo. This clip is easy to print and convenient to use. Strange that no one thought of this before.
Author: Minkix
Download: Thingiverse
Modular Furniture Connector
This connector allows you to quickly assemble modular furniture. The default model is designed for 17×17 mm wood, but the size and material can be changed to suit your needs using a parametric file for customization.
Author: LeFabShop
Where to download: Cults
Sealant cap
No more throwing open sealant tubes away. The screw cap for the nozzle presses the o-ring tightly against the body of the tube and closes the access of air to the solvents inside.
Author: The-Mechanic
Where to download: Thingiverse
Laptop niche
Now the laptop will always be at hand, but hidden from prying eyes in a special niche that is attached to the bottom of any coffee table.
Author: Too Snide
Download: Thingiverse
Phone holder - Candice
Elegant and simple, perhaps the easiest thing you can print on a 3D printer.
Author: Clem.C2
Where to download: Cults
Polypanels
The idea for Polypanels came from Devin Montes. A polypanel is a series of three-dimensional building blocks. The individual elements of a Polypanel look simple, but if you print a lot of them and different types, you can create all sorts of complex designs. Something like LEGO where you can design each brick.
Author: MakeAnything
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
Coat Hook
This coat hook is designed as an E3D attachment and can be printed multiple times to fit all your clothes.
Author: Filar3D
Where to download: Cults
Plant Pot
This anatomical brain flower pot is easier to print than it looks, creator DrFemPop says. For assembly, it is only necessary to glue the parts after printing. It turns out an original house for plants.
Author: DrFemPop
Where to download: Cults
Door Holder
This is a simple solution for holding a door. Double-sided adhesive tape is sufficient for surface mounting.
Author: Akiraraiser
Where to download: Thingiverse
Piggy bank
A simple piggy bank for beginners, no complicated settings.
Author: lecaramel
Where to download: Thingiverse
Cable ties
This tie is perhaps the simplest and most ingenious of all devices. Clips are printed as a whole sheet at once, and then the required amount can be cut off from it.
Author: Sunshine
Where to download: Cults
Roller ruler
An indispensable device if you need to measure the length of something non-linear: a piece of rope, a curved line, a perimeter with bends, etc.
The ruler is called Geneva and has step 5 mm.
Author: MechEngineerMike
Where to download: Thingiverse
Pliers
This small, solid piece of plastic can easily replace your pliers / pliers. These forceps take the force to the handles and redistribute it at the end of the grip. It's definitely pliers. Just smarter.
Author: BYU CMR
Where to download: Thingiverse
Cylindrical textured box
Beautiful tube from Syboulette decorated with hexagons. Well suited as a kitchen utensil for storing oatmeal, rice and other crumbly substances.
Author: Syboulette
Where to download: Cults
Door stopper
This stopper is modeled after the Guyer Anderson cat statue in the British Museum. The design is hollow, which allows you to fill the limiter with something for additional weight.
Author: Duaneindeed
Where to download: Cults
Plague Doctor Mask
Not exactly the most useful item on the list since bubonic plague is a thing of the past.
But a mask can come in handy, for example, when you need to clean up after your pet. And you can also go to the carnival in it.
Author: Odrivious
Download: Cults
Universal Spool Holder
This adjustable spool holder uses a spring and an adjustable rewind clutch. It's the perfect place to store those pesky wires.
Who made it: Vincent Goenhuis
Where to download: Thingiverse
Sturdy waterproof box
This tight-fitting box will keep things from getting wet. Print it in PLA or PETG, add a flexible TPU seal and M3 screws for the spring hinge, and you're done.
Author: ZX82
Where to download: Cults
Dice
This dice is suitable for flat 3D printing and has a face size of 16mm.
Author: Devin Montes (MakeAnything)
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
Collapsible Coat Rack
Really cool coat rack. That's all there is to say about her.
Author: Komaru
Where to download: Thingiverse
Business Card Holder
Great for showing off your new business cards to your Wall Street friends. What could be more delightful than this Zippo card holder with flip-top lid.
Author: PentlandDesigns
Where to download: Cults
Pencil and pen holder
Iceberg or melting beehive? Be that as it may, this is a handy pen and pencil holder that is cheaper to print than to buy.
Author: BeeVeryCreative
Where to download: Cults
Groovi Monster Audio Amplifier
This is a passive smartphone audio amplifier that looks stylish and does the job well. It's called Groovi Monster for a reason.
Author: 3DShook
Where to download: Cults
Cup holder
Can be used not only as a cup holder, but also as a coaster for hot dishes. The dimensions of the template are easily adjusted to suit any size cookware.
Author: jmdbcool
Where to download: Thingiverse
Clamp
Designed for fixing various materials, including the ends of the wire in the coil. Also great as a clothespin replacement.
Author: Med
Where to download: Cults
Pencil Box
Suitable for storing all your desk trivia and trinkets (memory cards, rubber bands, pencils, paper clips, etc.).
Author: Monkey3D
Where to download: Cults
Headphone holder
This is a duck. Yes, you can hang headphones on it.
Author: Toshi_TNE
Download: Thingiverse
Polyhedral Succulent Pot
Unusual geometric pots for your growing succulent collection. These small pots can be configured to be connected together.
Author: PrintFutura
Download: Cults
Survival Whistle
This is a survival whistle with original design. It is durable, easy to make and very loud (118 dB is more than enough to be heard in an emergency).
Author: Joe Zisa
Where to download: Thingiverse
Measuring Cube
Simple and original measuring cube for the kitchen. On each side there are recesses for measuring the volume of ingredients (in cups - according to the American system, and in metric units for everyone else). It is best to print with PETG material, it is the safest for products.
Author: iomaa
Download: Thingiverse
Hinge
This is a parametric hinge that can be sized to fit your needs.
Written by Rohin Gosling
Download: Thingiverse
Car Eyeglass Holder
Attaches to your car's sun visor. Glasses will always be at hand.
Author: Trevor Long
Download: Thingiverse
Opener
The simplest things are usually the most useful. Convenient and easy to print opener. Covers the sharp edges of the cork as much as possible, protecting you from injury.
Author: Jeremy Peterson
Download: Thingiverse
Superhero Keychains
Sometimes you need to remind yourself of your hidden superpowers.
Stylish and cool keyrings are well suited as a small gift.
Author: Formbyte
Where to download: Cults
Headphone stand
It will be useful for music lovers and gamers who use headphones a lot and often. After all, now they will no longer roll around anywhere.
Author: MakerBot
Where to download: Thingiverse
Bag Clip
The model consists of two printed parts. Allows you to keep packages closed and keep food fresh longer.
Author: Walter Hsiao
Download: Thingiverse
Plastic wrench
Handy wrench, but don't choose soft plastic to make it.
Author: Daniel Noree
Where to download: Cults
Sliding Decal
No more worrying about whether cups are clean or dirty right now in the dishwasher! With the help of a special mechanism, the slider easily changes the inscription on the plate.
Who made it: MiddleFingerBoss
Where to download: Thingiverse
Collapsible basket
Cool picnic item.
A folding square basket with five sections is printed from several parts and then glued together. For product safety, it is recommended to use PETG plastic.
Author: PatternToPrint
Where to download: Cults
Self-watering plant pot
Houseplants are dying from your forgetfulness? This will not happen again! This pot will water them by itself, and your conscience will be clear.
Author: Parallel Goods
Where to download: Cults
Maze Gift Box
Cash is not the most original gift. But if you present them in such a gift box, your friend will surely like it. The lucky recipient will have to work hard to get to the prize, because there is only one right way.
Author: Robert
Download: Thingiverse
Wired headphone holder
The headphones will now be protected from tangling and breakage.
Author: Robert
Where to download: Thingiverse
Tube Squeezer
Will help squeeze out the contents of the tube to the last drop.
Wide enough to fit most tubes on the market. Printed in three separate parts.
Author: Justin Otten
Where to download: Thingiverse
Webcam Shutter
The best thing for the paranoid and just for those who are uncomfortable being under the gun of a webcam. Instead of sticking tape or sticky tape over the lens, attach a slider shutter to the body and open it when you need a video call.
Author: Horizon Lab
Where to download: Cults
Hexagonal Prefabricated Drawers
Useful to free your desk from the noodles of cables, wires and just every little thing. The design can be easily expanded if necessary.
Created by Dan O'Connell
Where to download: Cults
Wall Phone Shelf
Attach the shelf to a power outlet and place your phone on it while charging. The model also has a corner slot that holds your smartphone or tablet upright for watching videos.
Author: Tosh Sayama
Where to download: Cults
Card Shuffle Machine
Awesome item for poker lovers.
This device will help to shuffle the cards and deal them during the game.
Author: LarsRb
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
Box with a secret lock
Box for storing things in a place inaccessible to prying eyes with a secret multi-stage opening mechanism.
Author: 3DPrintingWorld
Where to download: Thingiverse
Digital Sundial
Yes, your eyes don't deceive you. This is a digital sundial and it really works. They are designed to pass only the right beams at the right time and at the right angle to display the actual time in 20-minute intervals. Only works during daylight hours, of course.
Author: Mojoptix
Where to download: Thingiverse
Keyring
Designed in the shape of a stylish Swiss Army knife, it looks amazing. Printed from two plates and the keys are held in place with standard hex nuts and bolts.
Author: Craig Blanchette
Where to download: Thingiverse
0001 Made in Germany: the Germans patented a disposable 3D printer for printing internal organs
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Printers have long been predicted to become as popular medical devices as a stethoscope, MRI or ultrasound machine.
Enterprising Germans from Sartorius Stedim Biotech have patented a disposable 3D printer that can print internal organs. The essence of the invention is not so much in the novelty of the discovery, but in the hygiene of the development itself. Just imagine, if pots, covers for smartphones and drone cases are first printed on a 3D printer, and then they bring the same device into the operating room, and then start making organs on a dirty device, how many lives can be saved? That is why a sterile printer in medicine will come in handy. All the doctor needs is to get it out of the package, perform the operation, and then throw it into the trash along with disposable syringes and cotton swabs - a very necessary and practical invention.
Now 3D printers are used to print prostheses, bones, these high technologies are actively used by surgeons and dentists, so the creation of a sterile disposable printer can be of great help to doctors and not only. In 2015, US authorities approved the production of medicines using 3D printing for the first time.
