Are you searching for a 3D printer that’s not only user-friendly for children but also capable of producing intricate designs and committed to environmental responsibility? Look no further! This is my comprehensive review of the Toybox 3d Printer, designed to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your family or educational needs.
Use code “thoughtfullysustainable” to save 10% on printers
As a parent eager to introduce my children to the fascinating world of 3D printing, I embarked on a quest to find the perfect kid-friendly option. The applications of 3D printing in science, technology, and engineering were concepts I was excited to explore with my 8 and 11-year-olds. My search led me to the Toybox 3D Printer, and I am thrilled to share my experiences! This printer stands out not only for its ease of use, making it genuinely accessible for children, but also for its commitment to sustainability with its corn-based, potentially compostable filament.
Before we get into a detailed examination of the Toybox 3D printer’s advantages and disadvantages, let’s first understand the basic principles of 3D printing technology.
A close-up of the Toybox 3D printer in action, printing a small toy, with a child's hand reaching towards it.
Understanding How 3D Printers Work: A Simple Explanation
Think of a standard inkjet printer that creates words and pictures on paper. A 3D printer operates on a similar principle but instead of printing on a flat surface, it constructs three-dimensional objects layer upon layer from digital designs.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the 3D printing process:
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Digital Design Creation: The process begins with a digital 3D model of the desired object. This design can be created using specialized Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software or by downloading ready-made designs from online platforms.
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Slicing the Model: The digital 3D model is then virtually sliced into numerous thin horizontal layers, much like slicing bread. This slicing process converts the digital design into a series of instructions that the 3D printer can understand and follow.
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Layer-by-Layer Construction: The 3D printer reads these instructions to build the object layer by layer. It precisely deposits material, typically plastic, metal, or resin, according to the sliced design. This material is laid down in exact locations, gradually building up the three-dimensional form.
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Solidification and Object Formation: As each layer is deposited, it adheres to the previous layer, solidifying as it cools or hardens. This cumulative layering process continues until the entire object is formed from the bottom up.
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Post-Processing (Optional): Once the printing is complete, some objects might require post-processing. This could include removing support structures used during printing, sanding rough edges, or painting to achieve the desired final appearance and finish.
Essentially, 3D printing is like sculpting with layers, allowing for the creation of an incredible variety of items, from fun toys and functional prototypes to custom parts and even medical applications!
A vibrant collection of colorful toys printed with the Toybox 3D printer, showcasing the variety of possible creations.
Close-up shot of a child happily holding a 3D printed toy car, highlighting the joy of creating personalized items.
Exploring 3D Printing Materials: What is Filament Made Of?
The world of 3D printing materials is vast and diverse, offering a range of properties to suit different applications. The required strength and durability vary greatly depending on the intended use of the printed object. For instance, toy components might not need the same robustness as functional mechanical parts. Consequently, a wide array of 3D printing filaments has been developed. Let’s explore some of the most common types:
1. PLA (Polylactic Acid): The Eco-Friendly Choice
PLA is a popular and widely used filament, often considered the workhorse of 3D printing. It’s derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, making it a more environmentally responsible option. PLA is favored for its ease of printing, not typically requiring a heated print bed, and its availability in a broad spectrum of colors. However, PLA is not ideal for high-temperature applications as it can soften or deform in heat.
2. ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): For Durability and Strength
ABS is known for its toughness and impact resistance, similar to the plastic used in LEGO bricks. It’s suitable for creating durable parts that can withstand wear and tear. However, ABS printing requires a heated bed and good ventilation, as it can release fumes and is prone to warping as it cools.
3. PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol): Balancing Strength and Ease
PETG combines some of the best qualities of ABS and PLA. It offers good strength and durability, while being somewhat easier to print than ABS, requiring less heat. PETG is a good all-around filament for parts that need to be robust and slightly flexible.
4. TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane): The Flexible Filament
TPU is a flexible and elastic filament, making it perfect for printing objects that need to bend or stretch, such as phone cases, gaskets, or wearable parts like shoe insoles.
5. Nylon: High Strength and Flexibility
Nylon is exceptionally strong and wear-resistant, similar to the material used in durable backpacks. It is also flexible and can withstand stress, making it suitable for functional parts, gears, and tools.
6. Resin (for SLA/DLP Printers): Precision and Detail
Resin is used in Stereolithography (SLA) and Digital Light Processing (DLP) 3D printers. It starts as a liquid and solidifies when exposed to light. Resin printing is known for producing highly detailed and smooth objects, ideal for jewelry, dental models, and miniatures.
7. Wood Filaments: For a Natural Aesthetic
Wood filaments are PLA-based composites infused with wood fibers. They create prints with a wood-like appearance and texture, perfect for decorative items and crafts where a natural look is desired.
8. Carbon Fiber Filaments: For High Rigidity and Strength
Carbon fiber filaments are composite materials reinforced with carbon fibers, resulting in exceptionally stiff and strong prints. They are used in applications requiring high strength-to-weight ratio, such as drone components and structural parts.
While the world of 3D printing filaments is extensive, for the purpose of this review, we will focus on PLA, as this is the filament type used by the Toybox 3D Printer.
A close-up of various colors of PLA filament spools, emphasizing the eco-friendly and versatile nature of the material used by Toybox.
Image showcasing a hand loading a colorful filament spool into the Toybox 3D printer, highlighting the user-friendly filament loading process.
A selection of brightly colored filament rolls next to a printed toy, showing the range of color options available for Toybox printing.
How Does the Toybox 3D Printer Work for Kids?
The Toybox 3D printer is specifically designed to empower children to bring their creative ideas to life by making their own toys and small objects. Let’s explore the step-by-step process of how it works:
1. Downloading the Toybox App and Printer Connection
The first step is to download the Toybox App on your chosen device (smartphone or tablet). Then, plug in and turn on the Toybox printer and connect it to the app via WiFi. The app provides a seamless interface for controlling the printer and accessing designs. Once connected, you are all set to begin your 3D printing adventure!
2. Designing or Choosing Your Toy
Next, you need a design! The Toybox app offers several options: you can use the intuitive “Create” tab within the app to design your own toy, select from the extensive Toybox library of pre-designed toys, or even import designs in STL, OBJ, or gCode formats if you have experience with 3D modeling software. This stage is where imagination takes center stage, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
3. Loading the Eco-Friendly Filament
The filament serves as the raw material for your creations, much like ink for a regular printer. Toybox uses a bioplastic filament made from cornstarch, known as polylactic acid (PLA). This eco-friendly material melts and molds into the shape of your chosen design. Simply select your desired filament color, load it into the printer following the easy instructions, and the printer is ready to print.
4. Layer-by-Layer Toy Creation
Here’s where the magic happens! The Toybox printer follows the digital instructions from your chosen design and begins the printing process. It meticulously lays down thin layers of melted filament, one upon another, gradually building your toy from the base upwards. The printing duration varies depending on the complexity of the design, ranging from a few minutes for simple objects to several hours for more intricate creations.
5. Cooling and Solidification Process
As each layer of melted plastic filament is deposited, it quickly cools and solidifies, bonding to the layer below. This rapid cooling process allows your 3D printed toy to steadily take shape, layer by layer, right before your eyes.
6. Toy Removal and Finishing
Once the printing process is complete, carefully remove your newly created 3D printed toy from the printer platform. Depending on the design, it might require minimal clean-up or finishing touches. Now, you have a tangible, 3D-printed object ready for play or display!
7. Playtime and Enjoyment
Finally, it’s playtime! Your freshly printed toy is ready for action. Whether it’s a miniature figurine, a unique gadget, or a custom accessory, it’s now yours to enjoy, play with, and showcase.
8. Continuous Creation and Experimentation
The fun doesn’t end with a single print! You can continuously design and print new toys, experiment with different colors, modify shapes and sizes, or collaborate with others to create objects from scratch. The Toybox 3D printer offers an ongoing creative outlet, like having a personal toy factory that utilizes sustainable, cornstarch-based filament!
A young child beaming with pride while holding a 3D printed toy they created with the Toybox printer.
Why We Highly Recommend the Toybox 3D Printer: Key Advantages
As previously mentioned, a significant reason why the Toybox 3D printer stands out is its use of corn starch-based filament, often referred to as “printer food.” This makes it a more environmentally conscious choice compared to printers using filaments made from non-renewable resources. While it’s important to note that these PLA prints won’t simply decompose in a backyard compost bin (industrial composting conditions are required for PLA breakdown), the material’s origin is certainly a step towards sustainability.
Beyond the eco-friendly filament, I am particularly impressed by how independently my children can operate the Toybox 3D printer. After initial guidance on filament loading/unloading and safety around the hot nozzle, my 8 and 11-year-olds confidently navigate the Toybox app, select designs from the library, or create their own, and initiate prints. While I recommend parental supervision, especially initially, the Toybox printer is designed for safe and intuitive use by children.
Another significant benefit of 3D printing, particularly with the Toybox, is the inherent patience and appreciation it instills. Print times in the free Toybox design library range from 5 minutes to several hours. This eliminates the possibility of rapid, mass production of disposable toys. Instead, children witness the gradual creation of their chosen object, fostering an understanding of the time and effort involved in making something, whether it’s a toy, a meal, or anything else in life.
I opted for a Toybox 3D printer bundle, which included the printer and eight filament rolls in various colors, offering cost savings compared to individual purchases. Toybox also promotes sustainability by offering pre-owned, refurbished printers at discounted prices, contributing to a circular economy.
To make it even more appealing, using the promo code “THOUGHTFULLYSUSTAINABLE” gives you a 10% discount on all Toybox printers! Explore the full range of Toybox 3D printers here.
A 3D printed snowflake ornament hanging on a tree, showcasing the holiday and decorative applications of the Toybox printer.
Image of a Toybox 3D printer with various completed 3D printed toys arranged around it, highlighting the output and creative potential.
Addressing Common Questions About the Toybox 3D Printer
When my children started gifting 3D-printed toys and ornaments to friends, their parents naturally had questions. Here are some of the common inquiries I received and my responses:
Will the novelty of the 3D printer fade, and will it end up unused?
It’s a valid concern that a new gadget might lose its appeal quickly. To prevent this, we rotate toys in our house, and the 3D printer is brought out periodically, generating renewed excitement. The printer’s ability to create personalized gifts for friends and family, especially during holidays, ensures it remains relevant and used throughout the year.
My intention wasn’t for constant, rapid printing of fleeting toys. The cyclical use actually enhances its appeal.
Is a Toybox Plus subscription necessary for full functionality?
No, absolutely not. We do not subscribe to Toybox Plus. The free Toybox library offers thousands of designs, providing ample content without needing a subscription.
What are “bolts” in the Toybox ecosystem?
Bolts are Toybox’s digital currency used to unlock premium toy designs, including licensed content. This system allows Toybox to offer recognizable characters from major entertainment brands and compensate designers for their creations. While bolts are an option, we haven’t needed them, as the free library is extensive.
What is the ideal age range for using the Toybox 3D printer?
The Toybox 3D printer is suitable for a broad age range, from early elementary to high school. Younger children benefit from observing their simple designs come to life with parental guidance. Older students, including high schoolers, can utilize their preferred CAD software to create and print more complex, custom designs thanks to the printer’s design upload capability.
What are the limitations of the Toybox 3D Printer?
In my experience, the primary limitations are design size and material durability. The print area is approximately 3″ x 3″, which restricts the size of single-print objects. However, larger designs can be printed in parts and assembled. Regarding durability, PLA filament is less robust than materials like ABS. While toys are generally sturdy enough for play, they may not withstand very rough handling, especially by younger children.
A complex 3D printed model, showcasing how larger designs can be achieved by printing in parts and assembling them, overcoming the size limitation.
3D Printing as a STEM Education Tool: Unleashing Learning Potential
3D printing is an exceptional tool for engaging children in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning. As a former classroom teacher, I truly wish 3D printers had been readily available during my teaching years! Here are several ways 3D printing can enhance STEM education, complemented by a free, 15-page downloadable workbook on real-world 3D printing applications:
Science: Material Science and Reactions
Material Properties: 3D printing allows children to explore different material properties. They can learn why materials like PLA are chosen based on their characteristics, such as biodegradability and ease of use.
Chemical Reactions: The process of materials transforming from solid filament to melted form and back to solid layers introduces basic concepts of phase changes and material science.
Technology: Hardware and CAD Skills
Hardware Understanding: Learning about the components of a 3D printer, their functions, and how they interact provides insight into technological systems and mechanics.
CAD Skills: Introduction to Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software develops digital modeling skills, essential in today’s technology-driven world.
Engineering: Design Thinking and Prototyping
Design Thinking: Encouraging kids to design their own objects promotes engineering design processes: problem identification, brainstorming, design iteration, and refinement based on feedback.
Prototyping: 3D printing enables rapid prototyping, teaching valuable engineering concepts of creating, testing, and refining models before final production.
Mathematics: Measurement and Problem Solving
Measurement and Scale: 3D modeling involves precise measurements and dimensions, enhancing understanding of geometry and spatial reasoning.
Problem Solving: Designing for 3D printing requires applying mathematical concepts like angles, proportions, and calculations, strengthening problem-solving abilities.
Real-World Applications: Connecting STEM to the World
Industry Relevance: Demonstrating how 3D printing is used in industries like aerospace, medicine, and architecture highlights the practical applications of STEM principles and future career paths.
Hands-On Learning: Applying STEM concepts through tangible 3D printing projects makes learning more engaging, relevant, and memorable.
3D printing provides an engaging, hands-on approach to teaching and reinforcing STEM principles for learners of all ages. It encourages creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, making education both effective and enjoyable.
If you are interested in purchasing a Toybox 3D printer, remember to use the code “THOUGHTFULLYSUSTAINABLE” to receive a 10% discount on all printers.
Cover image of the free 15-page workbook for students about real-world applications of 3D printing.
Get Your Free 3D Printing Workbook for Kids
I am passionate about the blend of artistic expression and STEM skills inherent in 3D printing. To further explore this, I’ve created a free, 15-page workbook designed for students to learn about the real-world applications of 3D printing technology. Click the link below to have your copy delivered straight to your inbox!
FREE 3D Printing workbook for kids
For a more in-depth look at the broader applications of this technology, I’ve also written a blog post exploring the real-world applications of 3D printing. If you have any further questions about incorporating 3D printing into your home or classroom, please feel free to leave a comment below!
