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Are you tired of pointless 3D printer projects? Have you run out of 3D printing ideas? Check out our list of 50 great things to 3D print that are genuinely useful.
Like us, you are excited about the possibilities of 3D printing, but unfortunately, the market is flooded with trinkets, knickknacks, and decorations. We risk drowning in 3D-printed objects that nobody wants or needs.
Fight back against the wave of mediocrity! Let’s create something useful and great! Here is a list of things you can 3D print right now. Show your loved ones that this amazing technology has everyday, practical uses.
We love this “phone pillow” design: Designed to resemble a cozy pillow, it provides your device with a comfortable place to rest and perfectly combines functionality with style.
It is comfortably sized for larger phones (such as the Samsung Galaxy S24 or iPhone 15 Pro Max). If you have a smaller phone, you can scale down the model and reduce the printing time. A version with space for a charging cable is also available.
Where to download: https://makerworld.com/en/models/465699#profileId-374523
2. Reusable Zip Ties
Zip ties began their “career” as holders for electrical cables and wires. Thanks to their low cost, ease of use, and high strength, however, they have become ubiquitous and have many different uses. And of course, they are reusable.
You can customize the design to suit your needs, and because they are very thin, printing should take no more than 10 minutes. TPU or PETG are good material choices for maintaining ibility and pliability.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/899770-reusable-zip-tie
3. Collapsible Scratcher
There are places on our backs that even well-trained yogis cannot reach. Mosquitoes seem to have a natural talent for biting precisely in these spots. And when the bites start itching, you have to perform an undignified dance against the wall to scratch them.
With this retractable design, which can be printed in one piece, you always have a “helping hand” close by. Just extend the rod, aim it at the spot, start scratching, and… aaah, that’s better.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/953041-collapsible-scratcher
4. Pistachio Bowl
There is nothing more frustrating than reaching into a bowl of pistachios and pulling out a handful of empty shells because someone casually put them back. Creator Epiq3D solved this problem with a two-part pistachio bowl: Nuts go into the top section, shells are discarded through a small opening on the side, and fall into the large lower compartment.
Incidentally, there is also a “Party Edition” that offers three openings for empty shells instead of one. Print this bowl for your peace of mind.
Where to download: https://makerworld.com/en/models/488822#profileId-404395
5. Adjustable Height Support
This simple mechanism provides support in the form of a column. It offers a dynamic height and can easily be adjusted in place. Simply position the printed part beneath the section you want to raise or secure, take a screwdriver, insert it into one of the openings, and start turning the screw until everything is held firmly in place.
Designer Happymaker says they tested the mechanism with a weight of 75 kg, but are confident it can carry even more. You can use it to level furniture or even hold a window open, but please do not try it with Grandma’s Ming vase. The support height ranges from 32 mm to 102 mm.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/920145-adjustable-height-support
6. Post-it Templates
Thingiverse user SasquatchSocks thought it would be great to “have a modular Post-it case that can stand on a desk.” So they designed a privacy-focused case that is visible only from an angle of 20 to 40 degrees.
That’s nice, but in our humble opinion, the genius lies in the ability to 3D print templates for a weekly calendar, to-do list, graphic grid, and last but not least, a template with instructions for folding the P-03 Rival paper airplane. Everything can be easily put together and printed within a few minutes.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6643910
7. Hollow V Clock
No, there is no hidden mechanical mechanism or pure magic behind this clock design that keeps the hands floating in the air. It is actually a clever use of magnets that drive the hands, with only the minute hand connected to the ring mechanism.
The clever design by creator Shinsaku Hiura is now in its fifth iteration (hence the name). The entire clock mechanism is 3D printed. To complete the project, you only need magnets, a USB power input, an RP2040-based microcontroller, and a stepper motor to get your clock working.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6647784
8. Microgreens Grower
Microgreens can be a real boost to your health. Although these little plants are small, they contain high levels of powerful vitamins, minerals, and health-supporting nutrients. And of course, you can grow them with the help of a 3D printer.
Creator Gorden-FreeMan added a plant insert and a 3D-printed lamp to a plastic bento box. They used a small LED light strip along with a phyto LED strip that supports plant growth. You will need to solder some wires; otherwise, assembly is easy. You can buy seeds or sprouts locally or online. Everything grows on a nylon mesh—no soil is needed. After a week, you can start harvesting your green shoots.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6646154
9. Fan Ice Pack Holder
It gets hotter every year, there is no doubt about it. So how can you keep a cool head without relying on air conditioning? One clever solution is a design by creator Neon Corsair, who designed an attachment for ice packs. It mounts onto a fan, and the evaporative cooling effect helps keep you cool. We like it.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6636686#google_vignette
10. Dice Tower
If you are interested in board games or role-playing games, a dice tower is a useful accessory. This particular model, created by Squinn, recently won a competition on Printables thanks to its beautiful castle motif and spiral staircase. When dice are dropped into the tower, they randomly roll and bounce off the stairs as they fall down.
The model is easy to print and requires no support structures. It measures 18 cm in height by default, but you can customize it according to your preferences.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/851935-dice-tower-castle-stairs
11. Toolbox
Most toolboxes look rather boring, but this particular 3D model is much better as a design object without compromising functionality. The two-part print will help you organize tools, office supplies, art materials, or writing utensils.
Use this toolbox in your workshop, office, or studio; grab it by the handle and place it right beside you so you have everything you need within reach.
Where to download: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/tool/stationary-utility-toolbox
12. Hat Clip
If you love outdoor activities, you need to minimize long-term exposure to harmful UV rays. For that, you will need sunscreen and, of course, a good hat. One problem is that hats are often lost during hikes because we are constantly taking them off and putting them back on.
3D printing comes to the rescue. This 3D-printable clip is a combination of a carabiner and a clip. It allows you to securely attach your hat/cap to your backpack when you are not wearing it—a great print for hikers, campers, and adventurers.
Creator DownloadedGoods designed and tested more than 20 variants before arriving at the optimal version. Print three parts, assemble the clamping mechanism, and you are ready to go!
Where to download: https://makerworld.com/en/models/411073#profileId-315121
13. Mario Seed Starter Pot
It is high time to prepare the greenhouse for fresh vegetables! Instead of paying for commercial seed-starting trays, why not make your own… in style? These Super Mario-themed planters are self-watering.
Place a cotton pad or another capillary material in the bottom section. Screw the bottom section onto the planter, add some soil, seeds, and a little water, and you are done. When you are ready to transplant, unscrew the bottom section of the planter and push it upward. Just watch out for those Piranha Plants.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6558378
14. Silent Ping-Pong Paddle
Why print ping-pong paddles? First, it is always good to have a spare when friends come over. Second, this particular model significantly reduces noise when playing with an airless 3D-printed ping-pong ball. The entire design, including the handle, is 3D printed, so all you need for a civilized match is a table and a friend.
Where to download: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/various/silent-ping-pong-paddle-airless-infill-design
15. Trash Bag Holder
This 3D-printed trash bag holder looks good and keeps the area under the sink neat and clean. It is a good example of practical 3D printing and does not take up much space. It can be mounted vertically or horizontally. And please, for the good of the environment, use biodegradable trash bags.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/816775-trash-bag-holder
16. Picture Frames
So you have all those beautiful photos on your phone, but still have not found a nice way to display them? Have them 2D printed and turn on your 3D printer to add another dimension. Creator Sdaendi designed 15 different frames, each with two versions (one with an opening for customizable plates and one without). The frames are designed for photos measuring 52 x 86 mm, but you can customize them to suit your needs.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/778961-15-picture-frames-with-stand-and-wall-mount
17. Fruit Bowl
Occasionally, we come across a 3D-printed design that looks like it should be expensive. This fruit bowl is one such design, but creator SabreDesign offers it completely free (thanks, SabreDesign!). The fruit bowl is fairly large, so you may need to reduce its size to fit your print bed.
Just one tip: Although most filaments are food-safe, FDM printing is not ideal for long-term food storage because bacteria can grow in the gaps between layers. Everything is fine if you seal the surface with a waterproof spray, clear varnish, or waterproof paint.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/637891-modern-fruit-bowl
18. Soap Holder
Soap dishes can look very dirty after use. That is a fact. After a while, the mixture of water and soap dries into an ugly buildup, and this object, which is meant to help keep you clean, ends up looking filthy. Fortunately, 3D printing comes to the (visual) rescue! This particular soap holder has a wide opening so wastewater can drain into the sink. Finally, you can choose between two different grid designs on which to place your favorite soap.
The self-watering holder stands on four small feet, which should be printed from TPU for better adhesion to the surface. PETG will work for the rest.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6516633
19. Stackable Storage Bins
Here is a modular set of 56 bins, inserts, and labels for small items. BMdesign developed models that can store batteries of all kinds, from the smallest AAAA batteries to 9-volt blocks and CR-type batteries. There are also specialized prints for storing SD and microSD cards, CFexpress memory cards, plus USB and USB-C flash drives.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6507705
20. Loop for a Soft Tape Measure
A pocket measuring tape is something most people have somewhere in a drawer. Usually, the tape starts unrolling and gets tangled everywhere, but this simple one-piece design will keep it under control. The small winder lets you retract the tape once you have finished measuring. You can also customize the design to your liking using the provided OpenSCAD file.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6465890
21. Stackable Brick-Style Desk Boxes
Existing somewhere between playfulness and cleanliness, these stackable desk boxes can be easily connected and disconnected. They are five times larger than a certain iconic brick brand and bring a touch of childhood nostalgia to your office. Two versions are currently available (2×2 and 2×4 sizes).
Where to download: https://makerworld.com/en/models/139300#profileId-160359
22. Hanging Lamp
Some people make a decent living from 3D-printed lampshades, but Plaground decided to generously offer their model for free. The lamp consists of only two parts that can be attached to a power cable.
Highly diffused light spreads evenly through the thin layer in the middle. We don't need to remind you that, for safety reasons, you should use only LED bulbs.
Where to download: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/home/universal-soft-glow-light-fixture
23. 3D QR Code Generator
There are many situations where 3D printing a QR code is much more useful than printing it on paper—for example, when displaying it outdoors. A browser-based website converts your input into a QR code and lets you download the generated code as an STL file. Just launch your slicer. A few minutes later, your 3D-printed QR code is ready to display.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/690550-3d-qr-code-generator
24. Bird Feeder
There is no shortage of amazing bird feeders designed by the 3D printing community, but this model seems particularly impressive to us. Although the design may look difficult to print, it can be printed standing up without support structures. Just make sure to use a large brim for better print adhesion.
Where to download: https://makerworld.com/en/models/137047#profileId-149140
25. Monolith Cryptic Calendar
Sometimes things only make sense when placed in the right context. In this case, the cryptic writing on the columns turns into days and months once you slide the frame overlay. This particular model won an award in a design contest on the Printables file repository.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/698341-monolith-cryptic-calendar
26. Low-Poly Tray
Sometimes a simple design is exactly what you need. This low-poly design is perfect as it is, and we don't think there is anything to improve. If you're looking for a simple, stylish tray for your things that also looks good, this freely available model is the right choice.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/553277-low-poly-tray-bowl
27. Desktop Trash Can
For some of us, keeping our desk clean can be a real task. With this three-part print (bin, lid, and cover), you'll have a place for all your old stickers, chocolate wrappers, and pencil-sharpener waste. Trust us, it really helps.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/561643-mini-desktop-trash-can
28. Cable Repair
Our phone charging cables are used every day, and most of us aren't particularly careful when disconnecting them. So they tend to break. If your USB-C cables for Samsung or Lightning cables for iPhone show signs of wear, print this small two-part piece and attach it to the cable to prevent it from breaking or, heaven forbid, short-circuiting and damaging your precious phone.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/590112-cable-repair-and-protect-for-apple-iphone-and-sams
29. Miniature Nerf Blaster
This toy design has a fascinating backstory that you should see in the video explaining it. After YouTuber and engineer Marc Rober built the world's largest Nerf gun, he decided to go in the opposite direction: the world's smallest functional Nerf gun. He and a team of scientists managed to shrink a functional Nerf blaster down to the size of a hair and even go smaller. Unless your 3D printer can print with carbon nanotubes, you won't achieve such dimensions, but the amazing one-piece compliant mechanism is certainly worth exploring.
Where to download: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/game/one-piece-compliant-mechanism-blaster-mark-rober
30. Headphone Holder
Clutter often mysteriously accumulates on our desks. Stacks of papers appear as if by magic, along with various mugs, glasses, pens, and coins. There are probably so many things there that you can't find your keys. Well, at least you can keep those bulky headphones out of the way. The headphone holder fits any desk up to 25 mm thick and accommodates headbands up to 45 mm wide. It's also great for hanging a backpack or handbag so they don't get in the way.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6189714
31. Toilet Paper Roll Holder
It's always sensible to keep some spare supplies—especially toilet paper. This Shaun the Sheep-inspired model holds one roll, is easy to print and assemble, and looks as fluffy as the sheep itself. Cute!
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6194202
32. PET Filament Maker
The soft drink industry is happy to take our money and leave us not only with a sugary aftertaste, but also with an astonishing 1.3 billion plastic bottles used every day.
One way to recycle them is the 3D-printable PETamentor2. It converts waste plastic bottles into filament for 3D printing. A cutter slices the bottle into thin strands, which are then compressed in a heated nozzle. The result is a strand of filament you can use for future projects. Most parts of the PETamentor2 are 3D-printable. Building, handling, and operating the machine isn't particularly complicated. Our verdict? It's much better than simply throwing things away.
Where to download: https://petamentor2.com/
33. Bottle Cap Boy
If you're looking for a way to use discarded plastic bottle caps, this project is fun. This one-hour print will hold your nozzles, small coins, seeds, teeth, magnets, or anything else you want to store. It is compatible with most 500ml bottles, but versions for American caps are also available.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:6145706
34. Paper Letter Embosser
Originally created for adventure races, these 3D-printed stamping embossers can make your things more interesting. Use them to emboss thin, smooth, and flat surfaces such as paper, cardboard, parchment, textile fabric, or leather.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/519619-paper-alphabet-embosser-stamp-punch-scalable
35. Flat Pocket Whistle
This whistle is small, looks great, fits comfortably on a keychain, and produces a clear, high-pitched two-tone sound. Despite its size and height (only 3 mm), it is actually quite loud! Do not use supports when printing it, and make sure the first layer is printed properly.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/495173-flat-pocket-whistle
36. RC Airplane
Are you a fan of flying things? Here's a lightweight airplane model that is easy to assemble and offers excellent flight characteristics. According to the designers, the Piper J-3 Cub model is an ideal project for beginners in RC flying. In the event of an accident, the parts can be quickly reprinted at the cost of the filament alone.
You'll need a little patience because you'll be printing 126 parts. It's best to use a material such as PolyLight LW-PLA, as standard PLA is too heavy for this airplane.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/243982-piper-j-3-cub
37. Customizable Keychain
How about a personalized keychain with your name that you can also use as a fidget toy? Choose your letters and select a base for up to 15 characters. The alphabet letters are available for free download in a standard font with non-rotating letters. Or with rotating letters, if you like to keep your fingers moving.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5941501
38. Wi-Fi QR Code Sign
If you work at a reception desk or in another public space, you'll love this stand: it is a 3D-printed stand that lets you share your Wi-Fi hotspot SSID and password with your guests.
Most smartphones can interpret QR codes and perform actions encoded in them, such as automatically connecting to a Wi-Fi network—no input required. Just follow Radiojacka's instructions (link below), generate a QR code in Tinkercad, and print it. A version for the refrigerator with magnets is also available.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/155573-wifi-qr-code-sign
39. Gravity Broom Holder
If you're tired of playing real-life Mikado with the brooms in your closet, it's time to print this ingenious little helper. It uses a rotating mechanism and the weight of the broom to securely hold the handle. To remove it, lift the handle slightly toward and away from the direction of the gear. Let it return to its place to lock it in position. Why didn't we have this decades ago?
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/de/model/152557-gravity-broom-holder
40. 3-Digit Combination Safe
This safe uses a 3-digit combination to prevent anyone from stealing your valuables. Of course, it isn't as secure as its steel relative (you can melt or crush plastic, after all, right?), but it's a fun project nonetheless.
Although the instructions are excellent, beginners in DIY projects may find the assembly a little daunting. Nevertheless, anyone who has already completed more complex projects should build this safe—it will teach you a lot about how a combination safe works.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/259699-safe-box-3-digit-combination
41. Hexx Case Tool Case
Taking inspiration from the old Dutch Rolykit toolbox, maker Davie came up with this ingenious design for storing your tools. These individual compartments can be folded into a compact hexagonal toolbox while everything still stays in its place.
If you like this idea, you'll find more clever tool-storage designs on his Thingiverse profile.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5334288
42. Battery Dispenser
Batteries usually live their lives in drawers (and the last one tends to get lost in the farthest corner of the drawer). If you want to display them more prominently, print this dispenser. It holds 20 AA and 35 AAA batteries.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3358129
43. Squeeze Fan
Is it hot outside? Desperate to cool down? Once assembled, this 3D-printed fan can really help you cool off. It is powered by a squeeze mechanism that requires no additional batteries, and according to its creator, it is more than just a toy.
Where to download: https://www.printables.com/cs/model/157894-squeeze-fan-ruggedized
44. LED Hexagonal Panels
Is it a lamp? Is it art? Is it both? That's for you to decide, but if you choose to download the files, you should know that printing one of these panels takes 2.5 hours and the lid takes 1.5 hours. Most parts connect easily, so you'll only need an LED strip and a bit of superglue.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4742593#google_vignette
45. Slim Credit Card Wallet
Press the button on the back of this wallet and up to five cards will slide out. The print consists of only three parts, with assembly instructions available on the Thingiverse page.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4072298
46. Quick-release phone stand
This phone stand not only allows for different viewing angles, but also offers a quick-release mechanism that holds the phone securely in the stand and releases it when you pick it up. The design is suitable for larger smartphones and is entirely printable, with the exception of a small extension spring that needs to be installed when assembling the stand.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3681512
47. Groovi Monster sound amplifier
This is a passive amplifier for your smartphone that adds a little extra “oomph” to those tinny speakers when playing your favorite music. What is not passive, however, are those outstretched arms—the name Groovi Monster was not chosen without reason.
Where to download: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/gadget/groovi-monster
48. Self-watering planter
Do your houseplants die because of neglect? NEVER AGAIN. Print this automatic plant watering system and your conscience will be clear. It is especially useful for kitchen herbs, whose lifespan you can extend by up to a week by transplanting them into this elegant device.
Where to download: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/home/self-watering-planter-small
49. Card shuffler
Those who often lose their rhythm while shuffling cards can finally ease their poker nerves! MyMiniFactory user LarsRb created this colorful product, whose sole purpose is to successfully shuffle decks of cards up to the size of official poker cards.
Where to download: https://www.myminifactory.com/object/3d-print-card-deck-shuffler-v2-72445
50. Digital sundial
Your eyes are not deceiving you. This incredibly cool 3D-printable piece is a digital sundial. And it really works. The sundial’s shape was designed to let through only the right rays at the right time and angle, allowing it to display the current time in 20-minute intervals. It only works during daylight hours, of course, between 10:00 and 16:00.
Where to download: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1068443