Things that a 3d printer can make

What can you make with a 3D printer?

Contact an HP 3D Print expert

Choose the phone number for your country to speak to a local HP 3D Printing sales expert today.

België/Belgique

+32 78 48 44 69

Czech Republic

+420 239 050 531

Deutschland

+49 7031 986 90 13
+49 7031 986 90 17

España

+34 93 003 45 95

France

+33 6 28 78 35 59

Italia

+39 02 8295 2406

Nederland

+31 20 241 5685

Norway

+47 23 96 00 13

Österreich

+43 720 117035
+43 1424 0091

Romania

+40 376 300 174

Sweden

+46 8 446 891 49

Suisse/Switzerland

+41 44 511 2308
+41 44 511 2333

United Kingdom

+44 20 7365 8158

United States

+1 877 468 8369

Data courtesy¹

What can you make with a 3D printer and additive manufacturing technologies?

In one way or another, 3D printing is being used in almost all industries. So, when you’re wondering what can be made with additive manufacturing, the short answer is almost anything.

Applications of additive manufacturing

Many industries are harnessing the power and flexibility of 3D printing. Here are some of the most common products that are currently made with 3D printing:

Consumer products (eyewear, footwear, design, furniture)
Industrial products (manufacturing aids and tools, prototypes, functional end-use parts)
Automotive and aerospace prototypes and final parts
Medical, healthcare, and dental products
Prosthetics and orthotics
Architectural scale models and maquettes
Reconstructing fossils and ancient artifacts
Reconstructed evidence for forensic pathology
Movie props

This list is not exhaustive, and 3D printing is used for a huge variety of purposes. And it’s not just final manufacture, it can help improve almost every phase of the manufacturing process, starting right from the beginning.

Transforming design with rapid prototyping

Aside from the ability to transform the production of final parts, one of the most useful and common applications of 3D printing and additive manufacturing is for rapid prototyping. Using 3D printing to develop new products is helping manufacturers around the world reduce time to market and increases opportunities for efficiency and innovation.

Back to menu

Why use 3D printers for rapid prototyping?

Basically, because it’s cost effective and fast, in fact, with 3D printing, it can be possible to go from an initial idea to a working prototype in a matter of days. This could cut weeks out of product development time. Depending on the application, you could even make a fully functional prototype in the final material, allowing you to better evaluate and test your designs.

If you need to make changes, you’ll find that iterations are faster and cheaper to make, allowing you and your team to work quickly to improve all aspects of your products.

And you need not stop at prototyping: 3D printing can also be used for short-run production, one-off custom products, or full-scale final part production – and also spare parts. It’s a complete end-to-end technology, so it can transform every aspect of your business.

Sectors that use 3D printing and applications of additive manufacturing

3D printing and additive manufacturing are exceptionally flexible and can be used in almost all industries. Here are a few of the most common industries and examples of how 3D printing and additive manufacturing are being used.

Industrial applications of the additive manufacturing process

3D printing is fast becoming a key technology for efficient design and production in the industrial sector. Examples of industrial 3D printing applications where additive manufacturing can enhance performance and cut lead times and costs include manufacture of machinery and industrial equipment, production line components, robots, and end-of-arm-tooling (EOAT), molds, manufacturing aids, tooling, jigs, and fixtures.

Back to menu

Data courtesy²

3D printing in the automotive industry

Car makers around the world are using 3D printing to design and build prototype and final car parts – as well as spare parts, tools, jigs, and manufacturing aids. Overall, additive manufacturing has shortened the design and production process and has allowed for on-demand manufacturing, which reduces the need for inventory, warehousing, and storage.

But it isn’t just brand-new vehicles that benefit. Automotive enthusiasts are using 3D printed car parts to restore classic cars.

Automotive 3D printing case study

HP 3D printing helps CUPRA Racing create lightweight components for a new race car

Barcelona based SEAT is the only company that still designs, develops, and manufactures cars entirely in Spain. CUPRA is a stand-alone company within the SEAT organization that produces high-performance vehicles, including race cars.

During the conceptualization stages of their new racing car the CUPRA Leon Competición, CUPRA was faced with the challenge of quickly creating prototypes for some of the car’s lightweight components, including side mirrors, air vents, and a central control module for the steering wheel.

CUPRA turned to 3D printing - specifically the HP Jet Fusion 5200 Series 3D Printing Solution. Together, they were able to rapidly iterate designs, test those designs, and progress to the final product in a reduced time frame.

HP Metal Jet reduces car part production time at Volkswagen

Volkswagen, one of the world’s largest and most innovative vehicle makers, has adopted HP Metal Jet technology to produce high-performance functional car parts with specific structural requirements, such as gearshift knobs and mirror mounts.

Data courtesy³

“Our vision to industrialize additive manufacturing is quickly becoming a reality with HP Metal Jet. It is a game changer for the automotive industry,” says Dr. Martin Göede, Head of Technology Planning and Development for Volkswagen.

Back to menu

3D printing in the aviation and aerospace industry

Aviation and aerospace companies were early adopters of printing and additive manufacturing. As you might expect, some of the most rigid performance standards apply to this industry, and that creates the need for parts that are reliable in demanding conditions. Engineers who are designing and manufacturing for commercial and military aviation and aerospace need components made from the highest performance materials, and 3D printing is being used at all stages of design and production.

Back to menu

3D printing in the construction, architecture, and interior design industries

While 3D printed houses are already commercially available, most construction companies use the technology to produce pre-fabricated parts, often onsite.

These are usually large-scale concrete printing systems with wide nozzles that allow for large flow rate. This can be used to lay down concrete layers quickly, but also repeatably. However, 3D printing can also be used for more delicate and refined parts and intricate models as well.

Prior to construction, 3D printing can be beneficial to architects during the design phase. Take, for example, the Korean 3D printing service HS HI-TECH which used HP Multi Jet Fusion 3D printing technology to create uniquely designed architectural elements and build modular structures.

3D printing can also bring great benefits in terms of innovation and design freedom for interior design, home decoration, and furniture – such as custom-designed furniture and lighting.

Back to menu

3D printing for the medical and healthcare industry

The medical and dental industry is one of the fastest-growing adopters of additive manufacturing. From medical devices to prosthetics and even bioprinting, the applications of additive manufacturing for the medical industry are wide-ranging and often revolutionary.

The benefits of 3D printing for medical and dental

The freedom afforded by 3D printing and the ability to provide personalized solutions for patients in an efficient manner is driving huge growth in the medical and dental sectors. When coupled with detailed scanning, 3D printing can be used to provide highly customized patient-specific solutions like orthotics, prosthetics, or dental appliances.

Thanks to rapid prototyping, medical device manufacturers have freedom to design new products and help bring new medical devices to the market faster than ever.

Medical 3D printing case studies

Everex manufactures medical devices faster and at a lower cost

Everex is an Italian engineering company that creates unique and technologically advanced products that specialize in instruments for in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) analysis, the concept, and design of which are proposed by the customer.

Everex has recognized 3D printing as a crucial technology for new products, specifically in the field of diagnostic instruments.

One of Everex’s devices is called Hemo One, which is used to analyze samples of blood through clinical chemistry. All parts that comprise Hemo One were previously produced using traditional methods, but now are made with 3D printing or additive manufacturing.

Data courtesy⁴

Biotec Italia s.r.l. produces electromedical parts faster with HP 3D Printing

Biotec Italia s.r.l. produces machinery for electromedical and aesthetic applications. Biotec wanted to manufacture parts for its CoaxMed machine, a revolutionary combination of monopolar, bipolar, fractional radiofrequency (RF), low-frequency ultrasound, vacuum massage, and cryliposculting technologies, and turned to HP Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) technology to help accelerate production.

3D printing for orthotics and prosthetics

With its core focus on enhancing patient comfort, the medical industry is leveraging the capabilities of 3D printing to create patient-specific devices, like prosthetics and orthotics. The benefits of design freedom and rapid production of customized devices make 3D printing an appealing alternative versus traditional manufacturing methods.

Data courtesy⁵

Additive manufacturing for bioprinting

One of the most revolutionary applications of 3D printing is its potential use in the nascent field of bioprinting. Around the world, biotech firms, researchers, and academics are exploring the possible use for 3D printing in tissue engineering applications to create cells and organs, including inkjet bioprinting techniques, where layers of bio-ink, that is mostly comprised of cells, are deposited onto a hydrogel substrate, and are then slowly built up to form fully 3D structures.

Back to menu

The role of 3D printing technology during the COVID-19 pandemic

In spring 2020, hospitals were confronted with a new challenge when the COVID-19 virus began to take hold around the world. It wasn’t long before the global supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical devices were dwindling, and the medical community turned to technology to solve the shortage. Throughout the pandemic, 3D printing was used to supply healthcare staff with much-needed PPE, as well as spare parts to fix overworked ventilators.

Global corporations, start-ups, and even high-school students with 3D printers answered the call. Thanks to 3D printing, millions of items of PPE and ventilator parts have now been shipped to hospitals around the world.

HP 3D Printing helped enable the design and manufacture of millions of critical medical parts to help mitigate the medical supplies shortage.

3D printing in the dental industry

The dental industry may contain the single most 3D printed object in the world: the mold for clear aligners. These molds can be 3D printed with powder- and resin-based 3D printing processes, and with material jetting. But this is not the only dental product to be 3D printed: in fact, crowns, dentures, and surgical guides can all be made too.

Dental 3D printing case study

SmileDirectClub scales dental aligner 3D print production to deliver straighter smiles to millions

SmileDirectClub is the first direct-to-consumer med-tech platform for teeth straightening and transforming smiles. SmileDirectClub had a dental aligner production method in place since its inception in 2014, but due to its growing customer base, the company needed a manufacturing technology that would allow them to meet the increasing demand for at-home clear aligner therapy. Their previous technology produced delicate, fragile parts at slow speeds and high costs.

Data courtesy⁶

“The volume output over a 24-hour time frame was low and we needed to find a way to increase volume output,” said John Dargis, Vice President of Manufacturing for SmileDirectClub.

This led Dargis and his team to research technologies that would enable them to mass-produce molds to create dental aligners, and thus deliver orthodontic solutions to customers more quickly. Today, they use HP 3D Printing, and the impact has been transformative.

Back to menu

3D Printing in the consumer goods industry

3D printing in the footwear sector

Before shoes were made in a range of uniform sizes, they were all custom made to fit individual feet. However, the requirement to produce in large quantities made custom production prohibitively expensive.

With 3D printing, custom-made footwear can be produced, even at scale.

“One hundred years from now, we might look back and see that the moment of industrialization where we had to fit into pre-existing sizes and styles was a blip in the history of shoemaking,” says Elizabeth Semmelhack, senior curator at the BATA Shoe Museum in Toronto. “Today, we’re moving back to bespoke footwear.”

Data courtesy⁷

This revolution is led by new technologies that scan your foot and create a digital 3D model of your foot. That model is sent to a 3D printer, which creates a unique insole that you can wear inside any shoe, allowing everyone to experience a new era of truly personalized shoe shopping.

3D printing in ophthalmology and eyewear

3D printing is a particularly suitable production method for eyewear frames because the measurements of an individual are easy to process in the end product.

Eyewear 3D printing case study

HORIZONS OPTICAL manufactures parts for custom eyewear with HP Multi Jet Fusion.

HORIZONS OPTICAL develops technologies and services to ophthalmic laboratories, optical chains with production capacity, and other industries in the optical sector. HORIZONS OPTICAL’s “Made4U” concept allows customers to personalize their eyewear based on their unique physical characteristics, visual needs, and personal taste.

Data courtesy⁸

With HP Multi Jet Fusion technology, HORIZONS OPTICAL created an end-to-end solution for customized eyewear. This includes using specialized software to take a 3D scan of the face, collect biometric data, allow customers to virtually try on glasses, and choose from a range of color options for the frames. Once the customization and fitting processes are completed, the glasses are sent to be 3D printed.

Back to menu

3D printing in the jewelry and wearables industry

3D printing can produce jewelry with direct or indirect production processes. Direct includes the creation of an item straight from a 3D design, while indirect manufacturing is 3D printing a mold that will be used to later create an item of jewelry. Working in either of these ways is helping to revolutionize the jewelry industry around the world.

3D printing in the sports equipment sector

Unlike other clothing and fashion sectors, the sports equipment industry places its primary focus on performance. This means that offering a customized fit can enhance the performance of an athlete and give them a competitive edge over their opponents. 3D printing is helping to provide custom-made equipment and footwear to sports professionals and athletes around the world.

Sports equipment 3D printing case study

Cobra Golf and Parmatech 3D print custom made golf putters

Cobra Golf and Parmatech used HP Metal Jet to launch Cobra Golf’s 3D printed golf putter: the KING Supersport-35. This limited edition, fully 3D printed putter with SIK face technology delivers the next level in personalization and putter performance.

Data courtesy⁹

Other 3D printing applications for the sports industry can range from protective sports equipment, including helmets and padding, or even innovative table tennis accessories.

Back to menu

3D printing in the education sector

3D printers have a variety of applications in the classroom and can enable teachers and students to create new models and prototypes quickly and cheaply.

There are still only a few degree courses that entirely specialize in additive manufacturing, but they are growing all the time, and many engineering, design, or product development departments will now have access to an onsite 3D printer. This is in addition to courses that allow students to specialize in CAD and 3D design, all of which can encompass experience with 3D printing.

No matter what the subject is, if the production of rapid models or prototypes is required, 3D printing is the optimum solution. Whether architectural, industrial, or even artistic models are required, 3D printing offers the fastest way to work, the best results, and a chance to future-proof the education of students around the world.

Back to menu

Want to continue learning?

Footnotes and disclaimers

Data courtesy of Cupra
Data courtesy of Fast Radius
Data courtesy of Volkswagen
Data courtesy of Everex Srl.
Data courtesy of Twikit. Printed by ZiggZagg (HP DMN partner)
Data courtesy of SmileDirectClub
Data courtesy of Superfeet
Data courtesy of Horizons Optical SLU
Data courtesy of Cobra Golf

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.

The best 3D Printer by PRUSA

See best 3d printers

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.

com

I 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.com

If 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.com

You 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.com

I 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.com

Messy 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 Watch

I’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.com

This 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.com

A 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.com

It 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.com

This 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.com

This 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 Pieces

Avid 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.com

Having 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.

com

Having 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. Vase

Hold 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.com

Building 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.com

This 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.

com

I 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.com

A 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.com

You 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.com

The 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.com

Candle 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.com

The 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.com

Windmills 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

50 Cool Things to 3D Print / Sudo Null IT News

No ideas for 3D printing? Tired of worthless trinkets? Here is a list of 50 cool really useful things for 3D printing.

Like us, you're excited about the possibilities of 3D printing. But, unfortunately, the horizon is littered with trinkets, trinkets and other unnecessary things. We are in danger of being buried under a heap of useless rubbish.

Throw off the shackles of mediocrity! Let's create really useful things! Here is a list of cool things that you can make on a 3D printer right now. Prove to your family and loved ones that this wonderful technology can be used daily and in practice.

No access to 3D printer? No problem. Just upload your files to our 3D printing price comparison system and choose the best price, ONLINE!

Don't have a 3D printer to print these amazing things? Then come to

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Thing #2: Power Outlet Shelf

Attach a shelf to your power outlet to support your phone while charging. The shelf has a slanted recess that allows you to keep your smartphone or tablet upright.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Item #3: Soap Dish

Elegant bathroom soap dish with two washable compartments. You can change the pattern of the inner pallet if you wish.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printable Cool Item #4: Nightstand Tag Handles

The art of storage doesn't have to be boring. The Hobb Knob is a small pen with a label to describe the items in the drawers. Now you will never lose your socks!

Download from ThingiVerse

Cool 3D printable item #5: coasters with geometric patterns

When it comes to hot drinks, mug circles are an inevitable risk. Things take a much more serious turn if there is a coffee-addicted inhabitant in the house. Available in three designs, these coasters help you avoid unsightly stains.

Download from Pinshape

3D Printing Cool Thing #6: Hinge Lamp

This hinged modular lamp consists of 6 main parts: base, body and top with LEDs. To make the lamp taller, you can add the required number of elements.

Download from MyMiniFactory

3D Printable Cool Item #7: one-handed bottle opener

This boomerang-shaped bottle opener is useful for people who have difficulty performing activities that require the application of force, for example, when opening a plastic bottle. Print it out and give it to your grandmother. She will appreciate this gesture.

Download from ThingiVerse

Cool thing for 3D printing #8: shower head

Is swimming under a waterfall on your list of things to do before you die? The next best thing is a 3D printed shower head (probably).

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Item #9: Secret Shelf

Hide valuable documents and stash from prying eyes on this secret shelf.

Download from ThingiVerse

Cool thing for 3D printing #10: jar handle

Enhance empty jam jars with a printed handle. What could be easier?

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Thing #11: Plastic Wrench

A full size general purpose plastic wrench. Actually for screwing and unscrewing around the house.

Download from ThingiVerse

Cool thing for 3D printing #12: business card holder

"What a delicate yellowish hue, and the thickness is tasteful, oh my god, even the watermarks. " Do you have such a business card? Find her a pair in the form of this business card holder, printed in its entirety (yes, already with a hinged lid). Instructions for adding a custom logo are included.
Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printable Cool Item #13: Alien Invader Shaped Toilet Paper Holder

Brighten up your bathroom with a functional printable model of a classic alien invader... ahem holding your toilet paper.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Thing #14: lift platform

Here is a fully assembled lift platform. Printed in full. No need to fiddle with a bunch of details. The adjustable height can be used to lift or support an object of acceptable weight.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Thing #15: Plant Drinker

Houseplants fallen victim to neglect? FORGET ABOUT IT. Print out this simple automatic plant drinker and your conscience will be clear.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Item #16: earbud holder

We spend a lot of money buying headphones on the go, but we don't protect them enough when we use them. Hide your headphones safely in this 3D printed holder.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Thing #17: Package Pen

We all know this situation. You trudge home from the supermarket, loaded with bags of groceries. The force of gravity causes plastic to crash into your palms, am I right? ENOUGH. Print these bag handles and forget about chafed palms forever!

Download from ThingiVerse

Cool thing for 3D printing #18: tablet stand

There are times when you need to free your hands when using your smart device, such as watching TV shows or cooking recipes. This simple stand supports 7" and larger tablets in both portrait and landscape modes.

Download from Pinshape

Cool 3D Printing Item #19: Plant Drinker #2

Another horticultural art contraption. It is especially suitable for kitchen plants. The next time you buy fresh herbs for cooking, transplant them into this neat device and they'll stay fresh all week long.

Download from ThingiVerse

Cool thing for 3D printing #20: door stop

Tired of everyone slamming doors at home or in the office? Then you need an UNCOMPROMISING door stop. Light weight, child safe, designed for easy installation and easy fabrication on an FDM 3D printer. The creator of the stop also claims that the device can be used to repel zombie attacks, however this version has not been verified.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Item #21: Windshield Scraper

If you want to quickly and easily get rid of snow and ice on your car windshield with this handy scraper. Printed without support, at the end there is a hole for a lace.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Thing #22: Water Hose Control

This special nozzle regulates the flow of water in the garden hose, about 2 liters per minute. It’s great if you have water limits set in the height of summer.

Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printing Cool Item #23: Modular Wine Rack

Whether you're new or a connoisseur in the world of wine, this modular wine rack is the perfect storage solution for your fine drink. bottles of WIRA. It can be expanded (or narrowed) according to your collection by printing only the required number of modules.

Download from 3DShook

Cool thing for 3D printing #24: whistle for protection

This original design whistle is easy to make and carry. Durable and very loud. How loud? How about 118 decibels? This is more than enough to get people to hear about your emergency.
Download from ThingiVerse

3D Printable Cool Thing #25: Apple Headphone Holder

Download from ThingiVerse9

3D Printable Thing: Cool Thing #20016 Holder of an umbrella for a wheelchair

Download with Myminifactory

Cool thing for 3D printing No. 28: Protection for disk

9000

Download from Myminifactory

Cool thing for 3D printing No. 29: Form for Snegles

Download from ThingiVerse

Cool 3D Printable Item #30: Wine Bottle Protector

Download from MyMiniFactory170004

Cool thing for 3D printing No. 31: Pocket ashtray

download from Myminifactory

Cool Press No. 32: Rodist Roll for a glass

9000 9000 9000 download from MYMINIFACTORY

3D Printable Cool Item #33: Apple Remote Stand

Download from MyMiniFactory

3D Printable Cool Item #34: Key Holder

Download with Myminifactory

Cool thing for 3D printing No. 35: Holder of the cutlery for people with disabilities

Download from Myminifactory

Current Passing No. 36: Cover wine bottle

Download from MyMiniFactory

Cool thing for 3D printing #37: Paper cup holder

download from Myminifactory

Cool thing for 3D printing No. 38: Case for blades

download from Myminifactory

Cool thing for 3D printing No. 39: Holder for a children from MyMiniFactory

3D Printable Cool Item #40: Towel Rack

Download from MyMiniFactory

3D Printable Cool Item #41: Holder for a glass

Download with Myminifactory

Cool thing for 3D Press No. 42: Holder for a phone in the shower

download from Myminifactory

Twisting thing for 3D printing No. 43: Holder No. 43: Holder No. 43: for beer glasses