They say that music makes the world go round, but spending money on new instruments will often make your bank account go down. For those who are passionate about making music, it’s usually a worthwhile investment, but not when you can DIY your own homemade instrument.
If you have some spare time and enough maker spirit, you can skip the pricey trip to the music shop and construct your own DIY homemade instrument.
We’ve collected a number of projects designed for beginners, intermediates, and experts.
Whether you own a 3D printer or not, there are a number of projects for you to delve into on this list. In a matter of hours, you can print or build some of these homemade instruments, bringing joy and sound right into your home.
By the time you finish scrolling through this list, you’ll be ready to start a band with all of these intriguing homemade instruments, made from either your 3D printer, assorted tools, random items lying around your home or workshop, and even a combination of the three.
If you don’t have a 3D printer or want to get these parts produced in more professional-grade materials, upload your model of choice to our price comparison service.
Get ready to build all day and jam the night away with this extensive list. Enjoy!
| Name | Instrument Type? | 3D Printable? | Difficulty? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playable Ukulele | Ukelele | Yes | Easy |
| Ocarina | Ocarina | Yes | Easy |
| Lovecraft Concept Guitar | Guitar | Yes | Expert |
| Recorder V2.2 | Recorder | Yes | Easy |
| Pringle Can MIDI Drums | MIDI Drum | No | Expert |
| Playable Guitar | Guitar | Yes | Intermediate |
| Banjo Ukulele | Banjo | No | Intermediate |
| Floppy Disk Percussion | Percussion | No | Easy |
| 3D Printable Modular Synthesizer | Modular Synth | Yes | Expert |
| Printable Trumpet | Trumpet | Yes | Intermediate |
| Kazoo | Kazoo | Yes | Easy |
| Electric Violin | Violin | Yes | Expert |
| Mini UNTZtrument: 3D Printed MIDI Controller | Synth | No | Expert |
| F-F-Fiddle | Fiddle | Yes | Expert |
| Slit Drum Keyboard | Keyboard | Yes | Easy |
Playable Ukulele
What is this homemade instrument? A 3D printable ukulele that you can print without the support structures. This DIY instrument is compatible with standard guitar or ukulele tuning machines and standard ukulele strings. This 3D printable instrument includes a curved body that helps resist warping and adds strength to the body.
The files for this homemade instrument are available for both smaller and larger printers. The designer “Solstie” recommends 50% infill for the body and neck of the ukulele. For those with smaller printers, you will have to print the neck and body in two separate parts, which must be super glued together before stringing. The ukulele is fully playable and is in the full soprano scale.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Easy
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find the STL files and more instructional information on Thingiverse.
Ocarina
What is this homemade instrument? This functional “sweet potato” style ocarina will make you feel like you’re playing a mystical tune right in the middle of the Hyrule. This 3D printable homemade instrument includes five-hole fingering, and can play notes from A4 to B5.
There are quite a few homemade instruments you can download and 3D print, but this one is among the easiest. Simply print the two halves (with no supports necessary), and glue them together tightly. Still, be sure not to rescale this model, or the sound won’t come out as intended.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Easy
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? The STL files for this 3D printable ocarina can be found on Thingiverse. It was designed by a user named “seggybop.”
The German 3D printer distributor iGo3D shared a video of this ocarina in action. Check it out below:
Lovecraft Concept Guitar
What is this homemade instrument? Are you a guitar shredder and a fan of the critically acclaimed horror author H.P. Lovecraft, then you’ll die for this DIY electric guitar model. The 3D printable body is inspired by Lovecraft’s idea of the Godfish and Necronomicon, and is incredibly well detailed and mesmerizing.
This is an intensive project, including six 3D printable parts for the body, one for the volume cover, and one in the center of the instrument. Additionally, you will need to order a few components to fully complete this project. The Lovecraft Concept Guitar also requires patience, taking around 100 hours to complete the printing process alone.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
- 3D printer
- Pickups
- Guitar neck
- Bridge
- Set of guitar strings
- Volume and tone pots
- Volume and tone knobs
- Neck plate
- Machine head set
Difficulty? Expert
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? The Lovecraft guitar is designed by Francesco Orrù. The 3D printable files can be downloaded from MyMiniFactory.
Recorder V2.2
What is this homemade instrument? This 3D printable recorder will take you back to the days of music lessons in elementary school. It comes in four different parts, and has been revised multiple times to ensure proper functionality. This instrument is easy to learn, easy to play, and now, easy to print!
There are a few steps you need to take to assemble this DIY woodwind instrument. First, print the STL file with a high percentage of infill. Then, sharpen the edge of the recorder’s lip until it reaches a fine point. After assembling the four 3D printed parts, twist the foot until your pinky is comfortably placed. Lastly, make sure the top of the body and mouthpiece are linked with a longer connector to allow for tuning.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Easy
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? The STL files and instructions for the Recorder V2.2 can be found on Thingiverse. It was designed by the user “cymon.”
Pringle Can MIDI Drums
What is this homemade instrument? Have a few leftover Pringles cans from snack time? Why not turn them into your very own MIDI drum kit. This advanced project is perfect for those looking to test their Arduino skills and have fun while doing so.
While this DIY homemade instrument might seem overwhelming, Instructables user “TheSpodShed” does a terrific job of walking you through the nine-step process. By using Pringles tins, an Arduino, some piezo sensors, and other assorted components, you can trigger any MIDI device or computer drum synth without spending too much on gear.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
- Four snack-sized Pringles cans
- Arduino Micro, Sparkfun Pro Micro or compatible (5V, 16MHz variant)
- 4 x Piezoelectric elements
- 1 x PNP small-signal transistor (BC558, 2N3906, or similar)
- 5-pin DIN socket
- 5 x 10K resistors
- 2 x 220 Ohm resistors
- 470 Ohm resistor
- 78L05 voltage regulator
- 1 x 22uF and 1 x 1uF electrolytic capacitor (10V or greater voltage rating)
- 100nF capacitor
- Red LED
- 1N4001 diode (or similar)
- 9V (PP3) battery and battery clip
- Prototyping board (7 x 4.5cm approx)
- Assorted 0.1″ pitch PCB headers and sockets
- Double-sided adhesive tape
- Hook-up wire, solder, etc.
Difficulty? Expert
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find more information and an instructional guide for this snack-ified homemade instrument on Instructables.
Playable Guitar
What is this homemade instrument? Looking to strum on the guitar that is easier to build than the intensive Lovecraft model? This 3D printed guitar is the perfect homemade instruments project for you. Created by the same mind that conjured up the Playable Ukulele, this guitar is also printable without supports.
While this uniquely shaped instrument looks fresh off the shelves, everything is complete printed aside from the strings and tuning pegs. The designer “Solstie” advises that you leave the instrument untuned and relieve the strings of tension each time you finish playing, just to ensure that the neck doesn’t warp. The guitar offers about 3/4 scale and is surprisingly functional, as you can see in the video below.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Easy – Intermediate
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can download the STL files and find more information on the Playable Guitar via Thingiverse.
Banjo Ukulele
What is this homemade instrument? While 3D printing technology serves as a serviceable tool for creating homemade instruments, sometimes all you need are a few musical components and tools to create an affordable alternative. This example is a banjo ukulele, comprised from a mixture of assorted parts from each instrument.
This particular DIY project was put together for under $40, and is as real as you can get to a banjo ukulele without heading to the music store. According to “Phantomn,” the most intensive part of the process was making the neck of the instrument. Most of these parts can be sourced from eBay or Amazon, here’s what you need to bring your bluegrass band to life!
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
- Neck
- Small drum
- Tuning Pegs
- Banjo Tailpiece
- Bridge
- Ukulele nut
- Small gauge fretwire
- Strings
- Excess wood and screws
- Tools: Basic woodworking tools, drill, screwdriver, saw
Difficulty? Intermediate
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find the full step-by-step guide for the Banjo Ukulele on Instructables.
Floppy Disk Percussion
What is this homemade instrument? An instrument for the old school computer geek with a surplus of floppy disks. This DIY homemade instrument is based off of the traditional Japanese instrument kokiriko. It’s usually created with rope and some cut wood, but you can make a tech version with a paracord and floppy disks.
The sound is a bit different, but the Floppy Disk Percussion ill keep you entertained throughout the day. The setup is quite simple, just drill a pair of holes in 34 disks, followed by three small washers on each. Lastly, run the paracord through these holes and voilà! You have yourself a DIY percussive instrument.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Easy
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find the full set of instructions on Instructables.
3D Printable Modular Synthesizer
What is this homemade instrument?This 3D printable modular synth is created by Tim Trzepacz, the owner of the electronic music parts company SoftEgg. By using 3D printing technology, he was able to create a modular homemade instrument that could be resized and repurposed according to the needs of the user.
The controller is set up for compatibility with 555-based or SID synthesizers. The unique part about his creation is that it’s completely modifiable. Octaves can be added to the existing keyboard, allowing you to create your own version. The front panel has a grid embossed on the back for easy drilling of holes for knobs and sliders. The bottom includes mounting holes so you can easily screw down circuit boards.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Since this project requires knowledge on synthesizers and redesigning 3D files, this homemade instrument should be reserved for experts.
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find more information on the 3D Printable Modular Synthesizer on Adafruit. The STL files can be found on Pinshape.
Printable Trumpet
What is this homemade instrument? A 3D printable trumpet that will have you ready to join the brass band. Designed by Thingiverse user “LtDan” version is an improved model from his first attempt. This functional DIY homemade instrument comes in 27 separate pieces, making this a fun but intensive project.
All of the pieces are printer-friendly, and should be compatible with most desktop machines. Aside from the printer, you will also going to need three springs for the valves. In reality, this trumpet doesn’t work nearly as well as an actual brass instrument will, but it’s an awesome attempt nonetheless.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
- 3D printer
- 3 Compression springs with a spring rate of about .7 lb/in
Difficulty? Intermediate
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find the STL files and more information on the Printable Trump through Thingiverse.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dah3trT5Tkk
Kazoo
What is this homemade instrument? One of the easiest of the homemade instruments included on our list, this 3D printable kazoo is a convenient and functional way to use your desktop machine. You can either print the Kazoo in three pieces without support or in entirely with external supports.
After printing, you assemble the valve into the main body. Cut out a small piece of wax paper and put it on the valve. For the best sound possible, the designer recommends humming into the large end of the device.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Easy
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find the STL files and more information on the Kazoo from Thingiverse. It was designed by the user “wes”.
Electric Violin
What is this homemade instrument? This electric violin is an amazing example of what can be done with your 3D printer. You will still need a number of components to make this homemade instrument functional. The body of this DIY violin can be printed in PLA, and the designer recommends a fill density of 20-30%.
This electric violin is inspired by the F-F-Fiddle project, which we included in this list as well. The size of this instrument is comparable to a classic violin, meaning that traditional strings, a bridge, shoulder rest, and other components should work with this print.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
- 3D printer
- 1 Bridge
- 1 Sound pickup
- 1 Electronic preamp
- 4 Guitar pegs
- 1 Metal rod (M8 x 370)
- Screws: 9 – m4x25, 1 – m4x50, 1- m4x40, 4-m3x8 (for tuning pegs), 4- m2x10 (for preamp)
Difficulty? Expert
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find the original version of the electric violin by Stepan Ignatovich on Thingiverse.
Mini UNTZtrument: 3D Printed MIDI Controller
What is this homemade instrument? The UNTZtrument is an open source MIDI controller made with a 3D printed case and the Adafruit Trellis button platform. This DIY homemade instrument is for the electronic music enthusiast, coming with four programmable knobs and 16 pads.
This instrument is a prime example of how 3D printing and electronic circuitry are a match made in heaven. The project, created by Adafruit, offers every part you need and an in-depth guide to make the best UNTZtrument possible.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
- 3D printer
- Adafruit Trellis PCB
- Adafruit 4×4 elastomer keypad
- 1 4×4 Adafruit Trellis Monochrome Driver
- 1 Arduino Leonardo
- 4 10k Potentiometers
- Tools: Soldering iron, 16 x 3mm LEDs, Flush diagonal cutters, Male jumper wires, 14 #6-32 1/2′ Flat Phillip Screws
Difficulty? Expert
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find more details about the Mini UNTZtrument MIDI Controller on Adafruit.
F-F-Fiddle
What is this homemade instrument? As one of the most unique 3D printable homemade instruments, the F-F-Fiddle is yet another testament for the potential of desktop 3D printing. Designed by the Portland-based OpenFabPDX, this DIY fiddle is an open-source project. You will also need strings, a truss rod, machine heads, a bout, a bridge, and a neck, all of these parts will cost around $350.
Although this homemade instrument has a high price tag, it plays just like a store-bought electronic fiddle. The current version has been revised eight different times, ensuring that it’s a high quality investment. OpenFabPDX also encourages you to remix or modify the current model, creating a small maker community through this unique project.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
- 3D printer
- Gotoh Stealth machine head tuners
- Set of violin strings
- K&K Twin Spot pickup
- Female mono plug for 1/4″ cable
- 2x SHCS 8-32×1.5″
- 2x SHCS 8.32×1″
- 4x 8-32 Nut
Difficulty? Expert.
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? You can find more information and a step-by-step guide on Thingiverse. Even more details can be found on the OpenFabPDX website, where you can also purchase all of the components or a fully assembled version.
Slit Drum Keyboard
What is this homemade instrument? Proclaimed as the world’s first Slit Drum Keyboard, this 3D printable contraption has the style of a tiny piano and the sound of a xylophone-like instrument.
When you press each key, a hammer strikes a tongue that vibrates and sends sound out through the front holes. These tongues come untuned, allowing you to customize the key of the instrument to your liking. This homemade instrument is fully 3D printable.
What do I need to build this homemade instrument?
Difficulty? Intermediate
Where can I find more about this homemade instrument? The STL files can be found on Thingiverse, while photos and further instructions can be found on Imgur.
https://youtu.be/mi5ttQ40bmo
License: The text of "15 Groovy Ideas for Homemade Musical Instruments to DIY" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.