3D printing has revolutionized the way we create, transforming it into an accessible and exciting endeavor. This innovative technology has empowered creators to produce a plethora of imaginative and practical 3D printer projects right from the comfort of their homes, things that were once considered impossible.
For creative professionals, showcasing mastery in this cutting-edge craft through an online design portfolio can be a game-changer. In today’s competitive landscape, highlighting a collection of cool Stuff To 3d Print and your best 3D printing creations can attract significant attention and new clients.
Eager to explore the world of cool 3D prints? We’ve curated a list of 67 inspiring 3D printing ideas to ignite your creativity and guide your next 3D printer design. Discover what you can make with a 3D printer – there’s truly something fascinating for everyone!
3DBenchy
At first glance, the 3DBenchy might seem like just a charming little plastic boat. However, it’s much more than meets the eye. This cleverly designed model serves as a comprehensive test for your 3D printer, pushing its limits and enabling you to fine-tune it for optimal performance. It’s one of the most straightforward yet invaluable 3D printer projects, making it an excellent starting point.
3DBenchy 3D print test model, a useful stuff to 3d print for printer calibration and troubleshooting
Survival Whistle
Next on our list of cool stuff to 3D print is the survival whistle, a simple yet potentially life-saving project. This practical item can be completed in about an hour and produces a piercing 118db sound. Its high-volume output makes it ideal for outdoor adventures like camping or for use at sporting events, enhancing safety and signaling capabilities.
Sunglass Visor Clip
Combining practicality with ease of creation, the sunglass visor clip is a standout among simple 3D printer designs. This quick project offers a convenient solution for car organization, allowing you to securely attach your sunglasses to your car’s visor. It’s a small print that makes a big difference in everyday convenience.
Car sunglass visor clip 3D printed, a simple and practical stuff to 3d print for car organization
Earbud Case
One universal annoyance in our tech-driven lives is tangled earbud cords. They are notorious for knotting and kinking, often leading to frustrating crackles and ultimately, non-functional earphones. An earbud case is a fantastic example of stuff to 3D print that directly improves daily life by keeping your earphones organized, protected, and tangle-free.
Carabiner
This 3D printed carabiner is surprisingly robust, boasting a sturdy frame and a flexible hinge. It’s engineered to withstand weights up to 30kg, which is impressive for a plastic creation. While remarkably strong, it’s important to remember that it’s not designed for extreme loads like supporting human weight. This project showcases the potential for creating functional and durable stuff to 3D print.
Durable 3D printed carabiner, a strong and functional stuff to 3d print for light load bearing applications
Flexi Rex
Originally designed as a gaming accessory for Settlers of Catan, the Flexi Rex has evolved into a popular and versatile 3D print. This durable and charming T-Rex model is a perfect example of cool stuff to 3D print that serves multiple purposes. It can be a fun toy, a quirky desk ornament, or a unique children’s gift. Plus, the timeless appeal of a T-Rex ensures it’s always a cool choice.
Key Holder
Inspired by the ingenious Swiss Army Knife, the Proteus Key Holder is a brilliant pocket-sized organizer for your keys. It neatly arranges your keys, eliminating the jumble and saving you the hassle of fumbling through pockets. This is undoubtedly one of the best things to 3D print for everyday convenience and organization.
Proteus key holder 3D printed, an organizational stuff to 3d print inspired by Swiss army knife design
Pencil Holder
Declutter your workspace while adding a personal touch with custom 3D printed pencil holders. These simple 3D printer designs enable you to create unique desktop organizers that are both functional and stylish. Personalize your pencil holder to reflect your personality and add a distinctive flair to your desk setup, making it truly your own stuff to 3D print.
Headphone Stand
Free up desk space and keep your headphones in pristine condition with a custom 3D printed headphone stand. Ideal for both home and office environments, these stands are simple yet effective 3D printer ideas that offer significant benefits with minimal effort. They represent the kind of practical stuff to 3D print that enhances organization and protects valuable equipment.
Sleek 3D printed headphone stand, a simple and effective stuff to 3d print for desk organization
Bowl
Transform your dining experience by 3D printing your own dinnerware. With a 3D printer, you can quickly produce original and customized designs like this blueberry-themed bowl. Expand your creativity beyond bowls to plates and other tableware to make every meal at home a unique and personalized occasion with stuff to 3D print.
Blueberry themed 3D printed bowl, a unique and customizable stuff to 3d print for home dinnerware
Planters
Elevate your indoor garden with abstract 3D printed planters designed for succulents and cacti. Step away from conventional clay pots and embrace cool 3D prints that offer modern and attractive alternatives. These modular planters bring a fresh, contemporary look to your mini-garden, making them stylish stuff to 3D print for plant lovers.
Platform Jack
While not designed for heavy-duty automotive lifting, this 3D printed platform jack is surprisingly capable of handling a reasonable amount of weight. It’s perfect for providing access to the undersides of models and hobby projects. 3D printing your own platform jack offers a convenient tool for painting models and tackling other hobbyist tasks at home, making it practical stuff to 3D print for DIY enthusiasts.
3D printed platform jack for models, a useful stuff to 3d print for hobbyists and DIY projects
Measuring Cube
Simplify your kitchen drawers by replacing a clutter of measuring spoons with a single, ingenious measuring cube. This immediately useful and cool 3D print is a conversation starter and a highly practical tool. Its innovative design is sure to impress and become a sought-after item among those who see it, showcasing the clever stuff to 3D print for kitchen efficiency.
Mitre Box
For crafting enthusiasts, a mitre box is an essential tool for making precise cuts. With 3D printing, you can quickly produce a mini craft mitre box in minutes. Just add a blade and you’re ready to make accurate cuts in your crafting projects, enhancing precision and ease in your DIY endeavors with stuff to 3D print.
USB Holder
Prevent the frustration of misplaced USB keys and safeguard your valuable data by 3D printing a desktop USB holder. This practical device keeps all your USB keys organized and within reach. It’s one of the most useful 3D printed objects for maintaining office organization and data security, highlighting the functional stuff to 3D print for workspace efficiency.
Faucet Water Saver
Contribute to water conservation efforts with a 3D printed water-saving faucet attachment. This project is quick to print, easy to install, and requires minimal material. It’s a simple yet effective way to reduce water usage at home, making it eco-conscious stuff to 3D print for sustainable living.
3D printed faucet water saver, an eco-friendly stuff to 3d print for water conservation at home
Cable Holder
Reclaim your desk and entertainment area from cable chaos with 3D printed cable management devices. These space-saving solutions minimize clutter and eliminate cord-related aggravation. These are the kind of life-improving 3D printed objects that make daily routines smoother and less frustrating, representing essential stuff to 3D print for home and office organization.
Catapult
Inject some fun into a dull office day by constructing miniature 3D printed catapults. These playful gadgets provide a lighthearted distraction and a chance to hone your aim. Perfect for launching small projectiles, they’re entertaining stuff to 3D print for office games and stress relief.
Cutlery
For camping enthusiasts or those seeking portable and reusable cutlery for office or cafeteria use, 3D printing your own cutlery set is an excellent option. These sets are functional, portable, and quick to create. The reusability of 3D printed cutlery makes them an environmentally friendly choice, showcasing practical stuff to 3D print for on-the-go dining.
Portable 3D printed cutlery set, a reusable stuff to 3d print for camping and office lunches
Keychain Smartphone Stand
Almost everyone owns a smartphone, and the need to prop it up for viewing videos or photos is a common occurrence. This tiny 3D printed keychain smartphone stand is an incredibly useful solution. Resembling a cute cat, it’s not only functional but also adds a touch of whimsy to your everyday carry, making it cool stuff to 3D print for smartphone users.
Comb
Small, practical projects like a 3D printed comb highlight the delightful utility of 3D printer designs. A comb is a daily essential for maintaining neat hair, and with 3D printing, creating a personalized comb is simple and quick. This project demonstrates how easy it is to produce useful stuff to 3D print for personal care.
Shark fin 3D printed comb, a simple and practical stuff to 3d print for personal grooming
Spirographs
Spirographs, a timeless childhood favorite, continue to captivate kids and adults alike. These drawing toys are not only enjoyable but can also spark creativity and help overcome creative blocks. 3D printing spirographs brings this classic toy into the modern era, offering engaging stuff to 3D print for creative exploration.
Toothpaste Squeezer
Inspired by the relatable struggle of squeezing the last bit of toothpaste from the tube, a 3D printed toothpaste squeezer is a practical solution. This device makes it effortless to extract every last drop, eliminating waste and maximizing product use, making it efficient stuff to 3D print for household use.
Bookholder
For book lovers, a 3D printed bookholder is an invaluable tool for keeping pages open while reading. Designed specifically for larger books, it provides a convenient and elegant way to enjoy reading hands-free. This is a must-have for avid readers and a prime example of useful stuff to 3D print for bookworms.
Bottle Opener
Another essential tool to 3D print is a one-handed bottle opener. This clever device allows you to open bottles effortlessly with just one hand. Keep a few in your kitchen drawer or gift them to friends as thoughtful and practical presents, showcasing handy stuff to 3D print for everyday tasks.
Bookmarks
Say goodbye to dog-eared pages with 3D printed bookmarks. These cool and functional items help you keep your place in books with style. Add a touch of charm with designs like owl bookmarks, making reading more enjoyable and organized with stuff to 3D print for book enthusiasts.
Wallet
Believe it or not, wallets can be 3D printed! Why spend a significant amount on a leather wallet when you can create a custom one at home in just an hour? 3D printed wallets can include card slots and personalized designs, offering a unique and cost-effective alternative to store-bought wallets, representing innovative stuff to 3D print for personal accessories.
3D printed wallet with card slots, a customizable and functional stuff to 3d print for personal use
Business Card
Make a lasting impression with 3D printed pop-out business cards. These unique cards transform from flat pieces into miniature toys, offering a memorable and engaging way to present your contact information. They are far more impactful than traditional cardboard cards and exemplify creative stuff to 3D print for professional networking.
Pop-out 3D printed business card, a creative and memorable stuff to 3d print for professionals
Fidget Spinner
For those who need to fidget to focus, a 3D printed fidget spinner is an excellent project. These simple toys are designed to occupy your hands and mind, aiding concentration and reducing stress. They are popular and easy stuff to 3D print for both kids and adults.
Tin Can Dumbbell
Incorporate fitness into your daily routine with a 3D printed tin can dumbbell. This budget-friendly project allows you to create a dumbbell by attaching tin cans filled with weight to a 3D printed handle. It’s a portable and affordable way to exercise anywhere, making it practical stuff to 3D print for fitness on a budget.
Veggie Toys
Add fun to meal times with 3D printed veggie toys. These whimsical toys attach to fruits and vegetables, transforming them into playful creations like lemon helicopters or banana cars. They are easy to print and provide hours of entertainment for kids, making healthy eating more engaging with fun stuff to 3D print.
Penny Whistle
Unleash your inner musician with a 3D printed penny whistle. This project allows you to create a functional musical instrument with a 3D printer. Enjoy the nostalgic fun of playing a whistle, reminiscent of childhood music classes, with this unique stuff to 3D print.
3D printed penny whistle, a unique and playable stuff to 3d print musical instrument
Dragonfly
The 3D printed dragonfly is an intricate and captivating project. This tiny, delicate flying machine showcases more complexity than many other projects, offering a rewarding challenge. It’s perfect for entertaining kids and demonstrating the capabilities of 3D printing, making it impressive stuff to 3D print.
Handles
Upgrade your cutlery with decorative 3D printed handles. With minimal effort, you can create custom handles that will impress your guests. When asked about 3D printing capabilities, you can proudly show them they are dining with it, demonstrating stylish and functional stuff to 3D print for home decor.
Amplifier
Boost your phone’s speaker volume with a 3D printed amplifier. These devices amplify sound without needing external power, enhancing audio quality for music and calls. They are portable and convenient, making them practical stuff to 3D print for mobile users.
3D printed phone amplifier, a portable and useful stuff to 3d print for enhancing phone audio
Coasters
Protect your furniture in style by 3D printing custom drink coasters. Ditch flimsy or generic coasters and create personalized sets with unique designs. 3D printed coasters are excellent for home use or as thoughtful, handmade gifts, showcasing practical and personalized stuff to 3D print.
Balloon-Powered Car
Combine fun and physics with a 3D printed balloon-powered car. These simple chassis are easy to assemble and entertaining to play with. They are perfect for birthday parties or as educational toys, making them fun and engaging stuff to 3D print for kids.
Leather Stamps
Personalize your leather goods with 3D printed leather stamps. Whether you’re a leatherworker or want to customize a guitar strap, these stamps add a unique touch. They can also be used as ink stamps, offering versatile stuff to 3D print for crafting and customization.
Orthotics
3D printing has real-world applications in health, including custom orthotics. For those with foot ailments, 3D printed orthotics offer a more affordable alternative to expensive custom-made versions. They can be tailored to individual needs, improving comfort and well-being (consult a doctor before use), representing impactful stuff to 3D print for health and wellness.
Popsicle Mould
Get creative with frozen treats using a 3D printed popsicle mould. The Post-Box Popsicle design is specifically made for mailing freezable liquids in a mould. Fill, seal, and send to friends for a unique and refreshing surprise, showcasing innovative stuff to 3D print for fun and gifting.
Food Moulds
Expand your culinary creations with 3D printed food moulds. Create fun shapes for chocolates, ice, baked goods, and more. These moulds are perfect for parties, allowing you to make treats shaped like superheroes or animals, making baking and cooking more fun with stuff to 3D print for parties and events.
Pinhole Camera
Experience photography in its simplest form with a 3D printed pinhole camera. This impressive project results in a fully functional camera made almost entirely from 3D printed parts. It’s a fascinating way to explore the mechanics of photography and the capabilities of 3D printing, making it intriguing stuff to 3D print for photography enthusiasts.
Topographic Maps
Create miniature landscapes with 3D printed topographic maps. Turn geographical data into tangible objects for home or office decor. A Mt. Fuji paperweight or a New York skyline bookend are just a few possibilities, offering unique and decorative stuff to 3D print for map lovers and home decor.
“Strandbeest”
Embrace kinetic art with a 3D printed “Strandbeest.” These wind-powered sculptures combine art and engineering, moving gracefully with the breeze. They are captivating to watch and represent a blend of creativity and mechanics, making them artistic stuff to 3D print.
Record
For audiophiles, 3D printing records is a remarkable project. Convert audio files into playable records for turntables. Go beyond music and record personal messages for loved ones, creating unique and sentimental stuff to 3D print for music and personalized gifts.
Centrifuge
Venture into scientific tools with a 3D printed centrifuge. This complex project allows you to create a lab-ready tool capable of DNA extraction at home. It’s an advanced project showcasing the potential of 3D printing in scientific applications, representing cutting-edge stuff to 3D print for science enthusiasts.
Glasses Repair
Accidentally broken glasses frames are no longer a worry with a 3D printer. You can create 3D printed parts to repair broken frames, offering a practical and cost-saving solution. This is undoubtedly one of the most useful 3D printing ideas for everyday repairs, making it essential stuff to 3D print for household fixes.
3D printed glasses repair part, a useful stuff to 3d print for quick household fixes
Hinge
Simple 3D printed hinges are incredibly versatile and useful around the house. These designs are easy to print and can be used in countless applications. Having 3D printed hinges on hand is always beneficial for DIY projects and repairs, showcasing practical stuff to 3D print for home improvement.
Simple 3D printed hinge, a versatile and practical stuff to 3d print for home use
Chip Clip
Keep your snacks fresh with 3D printed chip clips featuring a sliding clasp. These unique designs are simple to print and highly functional. They are practical and easy stuff to 3D print for kitchen organization.
Wrench
Create a lightweight yet surprisingly sturdy 3D printed wrench. These tools are functional and comparable to metal wrenches in many applications. 3D printing a wrench demonstrates the capability to produce usable tools at home, representing practical stuff to 3D print for DIY and repairs.
Electric Violin
Musicians can explore 3D printing an electric violin. While more complex than a penny whistle, the electric violin is a rewarding project. It produces beautiful music comparable to professional instruments but at a fraction of the cost, making it impressive stuff to 3D print for musical exploration.
3D printed electric violin, an impressive and musical stuff to 3d print for musicians
Drawing Machine
For a larger-scale project, consider a 3D printed drawing machine. Attach a pen and create artwork from digital files. This machine can produce invitations, cards, and various drawings, offering creative stuff to 3D print for art and design.
Orrery
At the pinnacle of cool 3D prints is a solar system orrery. This complex model not only looks stunning but also accurately represents the positions of planets and moons. It’s a challenging project requiring advanced 3D printing knowledge but results in a magnificent display piece, representing advanced stuff to 3D print for astronomy enthusiasts.
Coffee Maker
Imagine 3D printing your own coffee maker! If your machine breaks down, you can print a replacement. This project is a fun conversation starter and a unique gift for coffee lovers, demonstrating surprising stuff to 3D print for home appliances.
Split Flap Display
Bring vintage charm to your desk with a 3D printed split flap display. This nostalgic design uses mechanical flaps instead of LEDs or LCDs to display information. It’s a unique and eye-catching desk accessory, making it retro stuff to 3D print for desk decor.
3D printed split flap display, a retro and eye-catching stuff to 3d print for desk decor
Camera Slider
Photographers can save significantly by 3D printing a camera slider. These motorized sliders are typically expensive, but you can create your own at home. They function effectively and are a cost-effective solution for smooth camera movements, showcasing practical stuff to 3D print for photography equipment.
Telescope
Believe it or not, you can 3D print a telescope. Combine it with a microcomputer for advanced stargazing capabilities. This project demonstrates the incredible potential of 3D printing for creating sophisticated equipment, representing advanced stuff to 3D print for astronomy hobbyists.
Robot
Build your own robot at home using 3D printed parts, wires, and basic electronics. While not ready to take over the world, it’s a fascinating project to explore robotics and 3D printing. Start your robotic journey today with cool stuff to 3D print for robotics enthusiasts.
Hovercraft
For a fun and adventurous project, 3D print a remote-controlled hovercraft. This model can glide on both land and water. While requiring additional parts, the result is a thrilling RC vehicle, making it exciting stuff to 3D print for RC hobbyists.
Drone
Create your own functioning drone with 3D printing. This DIY project significantly reduces the cost compared to commercially available drones. You can even add a camera for aerial photography, making it cutting-edge stuff to 3D print for drone enthusiasts.
Robot Arm
One of the most advanced projects is a fully functioning 3D printed robot arm. Programmable and versatile, it can be used for various tasks. Building a robot arm is a challenging yet rewarding project, showcasing advanced stuff to 3D print for robotics and automation.
Electric Unicycle
Push the boundaries of 3D printing by designing a fully functional electric unicycle. This complex project combines technology and mechanics, offering a unique mode of personal transportation. It’s an advanced project that hones your 3D printing skills, representing ambitious stuff to 3D print for engineering enthusiasts.
Cosplay
3D printing has revolutionized cosplay, making intricate costumes more accessible and affordable. Create awe-inspiring armor, shields, and weapons to enhance your cosplay characters. 3D printing opens up a world of possibilities for detailed and personalized costumes, making it essential stuff to 3D print for cosplay artists.
3D printed cosplay guitar, a unique and customized stuff to 3d print for cosplay events
Guitar
Musicians and guitar enthusiasts can 3D print their own guitars at home. This project allows for unique and slick designs. Assemble the 3D printed pieces with glue to create a playable instrument. 3D printing a guitar offers a customized and creative musical outlet, making it unique stuff to 3D print for musicians. The smaller size of this 3D printed guitar is perfect for those with limited space.
Laptop Stand
Optimize your home office setup with a 3D printed laptop stand. This project elevates your laptop for better ergonomics when using multiple screens. The adjustable design allows for height customization, making it practical stuff to 3D print for home office organization. Print and assemble four parts for a functional and adjustable stand.
SD Card Storage Box
For photographers and tech enthusiasts, a 3D printed SD card storage box is a practical organizational tool. Keep all your SD cards in one secure place, preventing loss and ensuring easy access. This project offers a simple yet essential storage solution, making it useful stuff to 3D print for photographers.
More Cool Things About 3D Printing
From simple pencil holders to complex robotic arms, 3D printing’s versatility is astounding. Tasks that once took days or months can now be achieved quickly, allowing for rapid creation of unique designs. While the possibilities are vast, 3D printing technology is still new to many, leading to common questions.
Can 3D Printers Print Metal?
Yes, 3D printers can indeed print metal, but it’s a more specialized process. Not all 3D printers are capable of metal printing, and it involves different manufacturing processes. The primary methods for 3D printing metal include metal-binding jetting, powder bed fusion, and directed energy deposition. These techniques use metal powder or wires to build objects layer by layer. However, due to the high cost of machinery and materials, 3D printing metal at home is generally not feasible.
While laser cutters might be considered for metal projects, they are different from 3D printers. Laser cutting is a subtractive process, removing material, whereas 3D printing is additive, building layer upon layer. For those seeking a metal look without the cost of metal 3D printing, metal-like filaments are available, offering a cost-effective alternative for achieving a metallic finish on 3D printed objects.
What Are Some Cool Things 3D Printers Can Do?
3D printing extends far beyond hobbyist projects, with significant applications in science and medicine. Researchers use 3D printing to create bespoke lab equipment and even bioprinted body parts. Surgeons utilize 3D printed human organs for practice surgeries, allowing them to prepare for complex procedures and rare scenarios without risk to patients.
Customizable prostheses are another remarkable application. 3D printed prosthetics offer personalized fits at a lower cost compared to traditional methods. This technology enables the creation of affordable and tailored solutions, improving accessibility to custom medical devices.
In housing, 3D printing is addressing global housing challenges. Companies are using 3D printing to construct emergency shelters and affordable homes rapidly and cost-effectively. This innovative approach can significantly reduce construction time and costs, making housing more accessible in communities worldwide.
What Would Be Something Cool to Make With a 3D Pen?
For a more accessible and affordable entry into 3D creation, 3D pens are an excellent choice. These pens are portable, user-friendly, and allow for immediate 3D drawing. They can be used for repairs, artwork, and creating 3D models directly in hand.
Architecture enthusiasts can use 3D pens with kits to replicate famous architectural structures. Board game fans can create custom figurines, and artists can bring cartoon and movie characters to life in 3D. While 3D pens are versatile, they are best suited for smaller projects compared to larger 3D printers, which are more suitable for durable and large-scale items.
What Are Some Cool Things That Take Less Than an Hour to 3d Print?
For quick and satisfying projects, many cool things can be 3D printed in under an hour. Examples from our list include keychains, hinges, handles, bookmarks, smartphone stands, and whistles. Beyond these, other fast projects include:
- Cable clips
- Small cookie cutters
- Dice
- Earring studs
- Miniature figurines
Share Your 3D Printer Projects With the World
Once you’ve completed your impressive 3D printed projects, showcase them in an online portfolio website. Choose a platform with stylish templates that align with your brand identity and offer a free trial to ensure it meets your needs with desired features. An online portfolio is the perfect way to display your “stuff to 3D print” creations and attract potential clients eager for your 3D printing magic.
Unleash your creativity, start printing, and impress the world with your amazing 3D creations!
Looking for more design project inspiration? How to Start a Creative Project by ADAMJK | 5 Ways to Fund Your Personal Project | 10 Steps to Building Your Perfect Online Portfolio
