3D printing has revolutionized the way we create, turning once-impossible concepts into tangible realities right in our homes. This exciting technology has exploded in popularity, empowering creators to produce a vast array of innovative and imaginative 3D printer projects.
For designers and creatives, mastering 3D printing is a valuable skill to showcase in your online design portfolio. Demonstrating expertise in this cutting-edge craft can attract new clients and open doors to exciting opportunities in a rapidly evolving field. Highlighting a collection of impressive 3D printed items and your best 3D printing work is a powerful way to showcase your abilities.
Eager to explore the world of 3D prints? We’ve compiled an inspiring list of 67 3d Printing Ideas to ignite your imagination and get you started on your next 3D printing adventure. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned maker, there’s a cool 3D printing project here for everyone!
3DBenchy
The 3DBenchy may look like a charming little toy boat, but it’s actually a meticulously designed calibration tool. This compact model serves as a comprehensive test to evaluate and fine-tune your 3D printer’s performance. It’s one of the simplest yet most crucial 3D printing ideas for beginners to ensure optimal print quality.
3DBenchy, a small 3D printed boat used for printer calibration
Survival Whistle
Next on our list of cool things to 3D print is a practical and quick project: a survival whistle. In just about an hour, you can create a whistle capable of producing a piercing 118db sound. This makes it an ideal safety tool for outdoor adventures like camping or for attracting attention at sporting events.
Sunglass Visor Clip
A testament to practical 3D printer designs, the sunglass visor clip is a simple yet incredibly useful creation. This easy-to-print project allows you to securely attach your sunglasses to your car’s visor, keeping them readily accessible and protected from scratches.
3D printed sunglass visor clip attached to a car visor
Earbud Case
Tangled earbud cords are a universal frustration. This useful 3D print offers a solution by providing a neat and organized storage case for your earbuds. Say goodbye to knots and the dreaded earphone crackle – this project is a simple way to improve your everyday tech experience.
Carabiner
This 3D printed carabiner is surprisingly robust, featuring a strong frame and a flexible hinge. Capable of withstanding weights up to 30kg, it demonstrates the strength achievable with 3D printed objects. While not designed for climbing, it’s perfect for organizing lightweight items.
3D printed carabiner with a flexible hinge
Flexi Rex
Originally designed as a gaming piece for Settlers of Catan, the Flexi Rex is a durable and charming 3D printing idea. This articulated dinosaur model can be used as a toy, a unique desk ornament, or a fun gift. Its versatility makes it one of the more appealing 3D printer projects for makers of all ages.
Key Holder
Inspired by the functionality of Swiss Army Knives, the Proteus Key Holder is a brilliant pocket organizer. This useful 3D print neatly arranges your keys, saving you the hassle of fumbling in your pockets. It’s undoubtedly one of the best things to 3D print for everyday convenience.
3D printed key holder inspired by Swiss Army Knives
Pencil Holder
Declutter your workspace and inject some personality with a custom 3D printed pencil holder. These simple 3D printer designs allow you to create unique desktop organizers that are both functional and visually appealing. Express your style and keep your pens and pencils within easy reach.
Headphone Stand
Elevate your headphone storage with a stylish 3D printed headphone stand. This easy 3D print is perfect for both home and office use, keeping your headphones off your desk and readily accessible. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your workspace organization.
3D printed headphone stand holding a pair of headphones
Bowl
Transform your dining experience with unique 3D printed dinnerware. This blueberry-themed bowl is just one example of the original 3D printer designs you can create. Explore countless designs for plates, bowls, and more to personalize your kitchen.
3D printed bowl with a geometric design
Planters
Move beyond traditional clay pots with abstract 3D printed planters for your succulents and cacti. These modular planters offer a modern and fresh aesthetic, adding a touch of contemporary design to your indoor garden. They are cool 3D prints that combine functionality and style.
Platform Jack
While not designed for heavy lifting like car maintenance, this 3D printed platform jack is surprisingly sturdy for smaller tasks. It’s a handy tool for hobbyists, perfect for painting miniatures or accessing hard-to-reach undersides of models. A useful 3D print for any maker’s toolkit.
3D printed platform jack lifting a small object
Measuring Cube
Simplify your kitchen drawers by replacing a clutter of measuring spoons with a single, ingenious measuring cube. This immediately useful 3D print is a conversation starter and a practical tool that others will admire.
Mitre Box
Essential for crafting precise cuts, a 3D printed mitre box can be produced quickly and easily. In minutes, your 3D printer can create this invaluable tool, allowing you to make accurate cuts in your crafting projects. Just add a blade and you’re ready to go.
USB Holder
Prevent the frustration of lost USB drives with a dedicated 3D printed USB holder. This useful 3D printed object keeps all your USB keys organized and readily accessible on your desk, ensuring your important data is always within reach.
Faucet Water Saver
Contribute to water conservation with a 3D printed faucet water saver attachment. This simple 3D printer project is quick to print, easy to install, and uses minimal material, making it an eco-friendly addition to your home.
3D printed faucet water saver attachment on a faucet
Cable Holder
Tame the chaos of tangled cords with 3D printed cable holders. These space-saving cable management devices help declutter your desk and entertainment center, reducing cord-related frustration. These are truly blessed 3D printed objects for a more organized life!
Catapult
Inject some fun into the office with miniature 3D printed catapults. These playful cool things to 3D print are perfect for lighthearted office games and can launch small projectiles a surprising distance.
Cutlery
Create your own portable and reusable cutlery set with 3D printer designs. Ideal for camping, office lunches, or travel, this 3D printed cutlery is functional, lightweight, and quick to produce. A sustainable and convenient alternative to disposable plastic cutlery.
3D printed cutlery set including a fork, knife, and spoon
Keychain Smartphone Stand
Almost everyone owns a smartphone, and this cool 3D printed object addresses the common need for a phone stand. This tiny, keychain-sized project props up your phone for easy video viewing or photo display. Plus, the cat design adds a touch of whimsy.
Comb
Simple projects like this shark comb highlight the delightful possibilities of 3D printer designs. Create a personalized comb to keep your hair neat and tidy. This easy 3D print is both practical and fun.
3D printed shark-shaped comb
Spirographs
Rediscover a childhood classic with 3D printed spirographs. These nostalgic toys are still loved by kids and adults alike, offering a creative outlet and a fun way to break through creative blocks. A cool 3D printing idea for playful exploration.
Toothpaste Squeezer
Maximize your toothpaste usage with a 3D printed toothpaste squeezer. This practical tool ensures you get every last bit out of the tube, eliminating waste and saving you money. A simple yet useful 3D print for the bathroom.
Bookholder
Bookworms will appreciate this best 3D printer design for keeping pages propped open. Designed for larger books, this bookholder makes reading more comfortable and convenient.
Bottle Opener
Another cool thing to 3D print is a one-handed bottle opener. This ingenious device allows you to effortlessly open bottles with just one hand. Keep a few handy at home or give them as unique host gifts.
Bookmarks
Say goodbye to dog-eared pages with charming 3D printed bookmarks. These cool 3D prints help you keep your place in any book, and the owl design adds a touch of personality to your reading experience.
Wallet
Believe it or not, you can even 3D print a wallet! Why spend a fortune on leather when you can create a custom wallet at home in just an hour, complete with card slots? This useful 3D print offers a unique and personalized alternative to traditional wallets.
3D printed wallet with card slots
Business Card
Make a lasting impression with pop-out 3D printed business cards. These innovative cards are far more memorable than traditional cardboard, offering clients a unique and interactive experience. A truly inspiring 3D printing idea for networking.
3D printed business card that pops out into a shape
Fidget Spinner
For those who need to fidget to focus, a 3D printed fidget spinner is the perfect project. This excellent 3D printed object provides a tactile and engaging way to occupy your mind and reduce stress.
Tin Can Dumbbell
Incorporate fitness into your day with a budget-friendly 3D printed tin can dumbbell. This cool thing to 3D print allows you to create a makeshift weight by attaching two cans of food to a 3D printed handle. A portable and accessible fitness solution for home or travel.
Veggie Toys
Add a playful touch to healthy eating with 3D printed veggie toys. These whimsical cool things to 3D print attach to fruits and vegetables, transforming them into fun characters like lemon helicopters or banana cars. Perfect for encouraging kids to eat their veggies.
Penny Whistle
Unleash your inner musician with a 3D printed penny whistle. This project demonstrates that you can 3D print an actual musical instrument. Relive childhood memories and create some music with this unique and fun project.
3D printed penny whistle
Dragonfly
Showcasing more complexity than other projects, the 3D printed dragonfly is a fascinating and intricate design. This delicate flying machine is a cool thing to 3D print and provides entertainment for kids and adults alike.
Handles
Elevate your everyday cutlery with decorative 3D printed handles. With minimal effort, you can create personalized handles that will impress guests. A subtle yet impactful way to showcase the versatility of what you can print with a 3D printer.
Amplifier
Boost your phone’s speaker volume with a 3D printed amplifier. These compact devices enhance sound quality without the need for bulky portable speakers, perfect for picnics or beach outings. A useful 3D print for music lovers on the go.
3D printed phone amplifier
Coasters
Protect your furniture in style with 3D printed coasters. These simple 3D printing ideas allow you to create custom coasters in any design you desire. Say goodbye to generic coasters and create personalized sets for yourself or as thoughtful gifts.
Balloon-Powered Car
Combine fun and physics with a 3D printed balloon-powered car. This cool thing to print with a 3D printer is a playful and educational project. Perfect for birthday parties or rainy day activities, these little chassis are simple to assemble and provide hours of entertainment.
Leather Stamps
Personalize your leather goods with 3D printed leather stamps. Whether you’re a leatherworker or simply want to customize a guitar strap, these stamps add a unique touch to plain leather items. They can also be used as ink stamps, adding to their versatility.
Orthotics
3D printing extends beyond toys and gadgets into practical healthcare solutions. 3D printed orthotics offer a more affordable and customizable option for those with foot ailments. While offering potential relief for flat feet and similar conditions, it’s crucial to consult a doctor before using them. This highlights the best things to 3D print for health and well-being.
Popsicle Mould
One of the most original 3D printing ideas, the Post-Box Popsicle mould allows you to mail freezable liquids to friends and family. Fill the mould, seal it, and send a refreshing treat through the mail – a truly unique and fun way to connect with loved ones.
Food Moulds
Expand your culinary creativity with 3D printed food moulds. Create fun shapes for chocolate, ice, baking, and more. These moulds are perfect for parties, allowing you to make treats shaped like superheroes or cute animals.
Pinhole Camera
Witness the impressive capabilities of 3D printing with a fully functional pinhole camera. Made almost entirely from 3D printed parts, this project is a testament to the technology’s potential. A rewarding project to appreciate the ingenuity of what can be made with a 3D printer.
Topographic Maps
Create miniature landscapes with 3D printed topographic maps. Turn geographical data into tangible objects for home or office décor. Imagine a Mt. Fuji paperweight or a New York skyline bookend – these are interesting 3D printer designs with artistic and educational value.
“Strandbeest”
Explore the fascinating blend of art and engineering with a 3D printed “Strandbeest.” These wind-powered sculptures move gracefully across surfaces, showcasing a unique and captivating kinetic art form. A truly original and cool 3D printing idea.
Record
Audiophiles will appreciate this entry as one of the best things to 3D print: a playable record. Convert audio files and create your own custom records that can be played on turntables. Imagine personalized message records for loved ones – a unique and sentimental gift idea.
Centrifuge
Venturing into more complex projects, a 3D printer can even create lab-ready tools like a centrifuge. This project showcases the potential to produce sophisticated equipment at home, even capable of DNA extraction. A testament to the advanced capabilities of 3D printing technology.
Glasses Repair
Broken glasses frames are no longer a major inconvenience with a 3D printer at hand. This useful 3D printing idea allows you to quickly print replacement parts and repair your glasses, saving time and money on repairs or replacements.
3D printed glasses repair part
Hinge
Simple yet essential, 3D printed hinges are incredibly useful for various home projects. These simple 3D printer designs are quick to print and can be used for repairs, DIY projects, and more.
3D printed hinge mechanism
Chip Clip
Keep your snacks fresh with 3D printed chip clips. These fantastically simple things to 3D print feature a sliding clasp and are both functional and easy to create.
Wrench
Surprisingly strong and lightweight, a 3D printed wrench can perform on par with its metal counterparts for many tasks. This project demonstrates the growing capabilities of 3D printed tools.
Electric Violin
For musical enthusiasts, the electric violin is a more complex but rewarding 3D printing project. While more challenging than the penny whistle, the sounds produced by this cool thing to 3D print can rival professional instruments at a fraction of the cost.
3D printed electric violin
Drawing Machine
Scale up your 3D printing projects with a drawing machine. This unique project allows you to attach a pen and create artwork from digital files. Perfect for creating invitations, cards, or any type of line art. A more advanced 3D printer project for creative automation.
Orrery
Topping our list of cool things to 3D print, an orrery is a sophisticated and visually stunning project. This mechanical model of the solar system accurately represents the positions of planets and moons. A complex undertaking requiring advanced 3D printing skills, but the result is a truly impressive display of science and art.
Coffee Maker
For coffee lovers, a 3D printed coffee maker might seem unbelievable, but it’s possible! If your coffee machine breaks down, you can actually print a replacement. This fun thing to 3D print is a great conversation starter and a testament to the versatility of the technology.
Split Flap Display
Embrace nostalgic engineering with a 3D printed split flap display. Relive the charm of old-timey signage with a desk display that uses mechanical flaps instead of modern LED or LCD screens. A unique and retro 3D printing idea.
Camera Slider
Photographers can rejoice – you can 3D print your own camera slider! Avoid the high cost of professional sliders by manufacturing your own motorized version. These amazing things to make with a 3D printer work effectively and can save you significant expenses.
3D printed camera slider
Telescope
Push the boundaries of what you can make with a 3D printer by creating your own telescope. Combine 3D printed parts with microcomputer technology for impressive stargazing capabilities. A truly ambitious and rewarding project for astronomy enthusiasts.
Robot
Build your own robot at home with 3D printed parts and basic electronics. While not ready for world domination, this coolest 3D printed object is a fantastic starting point for robotics exploration and a fun introduction to DIY robotics.
Hovercraft
Zoom across land and water with a 3D printed remote-controlled hovercraft. This exciting project requires some additional parts but is well worth the effort for a unique and versatile RC vehicle. One of the more adventurous cool things to 3D print.
Drone
Take to the skies with a 3D printed drone. This DIY project allows you to create a functioning drone for a fraction of the cost of commercial models, even with the option to add a camera. Hands down, one of the coolest 3D printed projects for tech enthusiasts.
Robot Arm
For advanced makers, a fully functioning robot arm is an ambitious and impressive project. Programmable and versatile, this project demonstrates advanced 3D printing capabilities and can be used for various tasks and experiments. Perhaps the most advanced project on this list to truly showcase your 3D printer designs skills.
Electric Unicycle
Challenge yourself with a complex and innovative project: a 3D printed electric unicycle. This ambitious undertaking combines 3D printing with electronics and mechanics to create a functional personal transportation device. A truly amazing 3D printing project for honing your skills.
Cosplay
The booming world of cosplay has been revolutionized by 3D printing. Create awe-inspiring costumes, armor, and props at a relatively affordable price. Cool things to 3D print for cosplay include intricate armor pieces, helmets, and realistic weapons, allowing for incredible character recreations.
3D printed cosplay armor pieces
Guitar
Musicians and guitar enthusiasts will be thrilled by the possibility of 3D printing a guitar. This project allows you to create a unique and slick guitar design at home. Assemble the 3D printed pieces with glue and you have a playable instrument. A truly cool 3D printing idea for music lovers. The smaller size makes it ideal for those with limited space.
Laptop Stand
Optimize your home office setup with a 3D printed laptop stand. This practical project elevates your laptop for better ergonomics and easier multi-screen viewing. The adjustable design allows you to customize the height for optimal comfort. A useful 3D print for any home office.
SD Card Storage Box
Photographers and tech enthusiasts will appreciate a 3D printed SD card storage box. This practical project keeps your SD cards organized and in one place, preventing loss and ensuring easy access. A simple yet useful 3D print for organization.
More Cool Things About 3D Printing
From simple pencil holders to complex robotic arms, 3D printing’s capabilities are vast and ever-expanding. What once took days or months to create can now be 3D printed relatively quickly, empowering individuals to bring their unique designs to life. While the potential of 3D printing technology is immense, it remains a relatively new field for many. Let’s address some common questions about 3D printing and its possibilities.
Can 3D Printers Print Metal?
Yes, 3D printers can print metal, although the process differs from printing with plastics. Not all 3D printers are capable of metal printing, and it involves specialized techniques and materials. The primary methods for 3D printing metal include metal-binding jetting, powder bed fusion, and directed energy deposition. These methods utilize metal powder or wires to build objects layer by layer. However, 3D printing metal at home is generally not feasible due to the high cost of specialized metal 3D printers.
Laser cutting is sometimes considered as an alternative for metal fabrication. While both can work with metal, they are fundamentally different processes. 3D printing is an additive process, building objects layer by layer, while laser cutting is subtractive, cutting away material from a sheet. Laser cutting can be faster for producing multiple flat pieces but lacks the 3D complexity of additive manufacturing.
While the idea of 3D printing cool things at home with metal is appealing, the cost and complexity often make it impractical for home use. For a metal-like aesthetic, consider using filaments designed to mimic metal finishes. These materials offer the look of metal without the expense and specialized equipment.
What Are Some Cool Things 3D Printers Can Do?
Beyond creating gadgets and toys, 3D printing’s capabilities extend into groundbreaking applications, particularly in science and medicine. Scientists are utilizing 3D printing to create customized research equipment and even bioprinted body parts in laboratories. 3D printed human organs provide surgeons with realistic models for practice surgeries, allowing them to refine techniques for complex and rare procedures without risk to patients.
3D printed prostheses have revolutionized accessibility and customization in assistive devices. One of the most impactful aspects is the ability to create custom-fit prosthetics at a significantly lower cost than traditional methods. This personalized approach offers improved comfort and functionality, making prosthetics more accessible to a wider population.
Addressing global housing challenges is another remarkable application of 3D printing. Companies are employing 3D printing technology to construct emergency shelters and affordable homes. This innovative approach can significantly reduce construction time and costs, enabling the rapid development of communities and more affordable housing options.
What Would Be Something Cool to Make With a 3D Pen?
For a more accessible and hands-on entry into 3D creation, 3D pens offer a fantastic alternative. 3D pens are affordable, portable, and user-friendly, allowing for freehand 3D drawing and immediate creative expression. From quick repairs using the pen as an adhesive to creating intricate art pieces, 3D pens provide a versatile tool for bringing ideas to life.
Architecture enthusiasts can use 3D pens to replicate famous architectural structures using specialized kits. Board game lovers can design and create custom figurines. You can even sculpt your favorite cartoon or movie characters in 3D. While 3D pens offer great flexibility for smaller projects and artistic creations, their limitations lie in the size and structural integrity of larger objects. For substantial projects like furniture, traditional 3D printers are more suitable.
What Are Some Cool Things That Take Less Than an Hour to 3D Print?
For quick and satisfying projects, there are numerous cool things to 3D print in under an hour. From the projects listed above, keychain smartphone stands, hinges, handles, bookmarks, and whistles are all examples of fast prints. Beyond these, consider these other quick 3D printing ideas:
- Cable clips: Simple and practical for cable management.
- Cookie cutters: Create custom shapes for baking.
- Earring studs: Design unique and personalized jewelry.
- Dice: Print custom dice for games.
- Plant markers: Label your garden with stylish markers.
Share Your 3D Printer Projects With the World
Once you’ve completed some amazing 3D printed projects, showcase your creations to the world! An online portfolio website is the ideal platform to display your best 3D prints. Choose a platform with stylish templates and features designed for creatives, and consider options offering a free trial to ensure it meets your needs. With a portfolio showcasing your diverse 3D printer designs, you’ll be well-positioned to attract clients and collaborators eager to tap into your 3D printing expertise.
Ready to build a design portfolio website that captures clients’ attention? From gorgeous themes to a built-in proofing tool, we’ve got designers covered. Start your free trial with Format today!
Now, get creative and start making amazing 3D creations that turn heads!
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