Like us, you’re tremendously excited by the possibilities of 3D printing. Unfortunately, the landscape is cluttered with trinkets, doodads, and ornaments. We’re in danger of drowning in 3D printed objects that nobody wants or needs.
Fight the tide of mediocrity! Let’s make stuff that’s useful! Here’s a list of cool things to 3D print, right now, today. Prove to your nearest and dearest that there’s an everyday and practical application of this wonderful technology.
Updated monthly under the guise of our very own printocracy, we remove the five least clicked models each month and replace them with five new printables. As the year trudges on, something will always be new, while the uninteresting items drift away. Simple!
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Picture Frames
So you have all these lovely photos on your phone but haven’t found a nice way of presenting them? Just have them 2D printed and fire up your 3D printer to gain an extra dimension. Maker Sdaendi designed 15 different frames, each with two versions (one with a slot for customizable plates and one without). The frames are designed for 52 x 86 mm photographs, but you can scale the frames to your liking.
Who made it? Sdaendi
Where to download: Printables
Clothespin
This minimalistic, medium-sized clothespin is easy to 3D print in one go without the need for support structures. We recommend printing it with PETG filament, as it’s sturdy, weather-resistant, and flexible.
The design doesn’t use a metal spring like many store-bought clothespins, and it features “snakebite” style teeth to firmly grip the material. Use it for your washing line, for sewing, to close your chip bags, or as a cable management tool.
Who made it? LEN polygon
Where to download: Printables
Fruit Bowl
Ever so often, we stumble across a 3D printable design that looks like it should carry a hefty price. While this fruit bowl is one such design, designer Sabre Dynamics offers it completely free (thanks, Sabre Dynamics!). The fruit bowl is quite big, so you might need to scale it down to fit the size of your build plate.
Just one tip: Even though most filaments are food-safe, FDM prints aren’t ideal for long-term food storage, as bacteria can grow in the layer gaps. All is fine once you seal the surface with waterproofing spray, a clear coat, or even water-resistant paint.
Who made it? Sabre Dynamics
Where to download: Printables
Soap Holder
Soap dishes can look filthy after use. It’s a fact. After a while, the mixture of water and soap dries into an ugly smear, and this item that’s supposed to help keep you clean ends up looking dirty. Fortunately, 3D printing comes to the (optical) rescue! This particular soap holder has a wide opening for the runoff to pour into the sink. Lastly, you can choose between two different grate designs to rest your favorite bar of soap on.
The self-draining holder stands on four tiny feet, which should be printed in TPU for a better grip on the surface. PETG will do fine for the rest.
Who made it? Muskoka Research
Where to download: Thingiverse
Stackable Crates
Here’s a modular set of 56 crates, inlays, and signs for small things. BMdesign developed some models that can hold batteries of all kinds, from the smallest AAAA to 9-volt blocks and CR-type batteries. There are also dedicated prints for storing SD and microSD cards, CFexpress memory cards, plus USB and USB-C flash drives.
Who made it? BMdesign
Where to download: Thingiverse
Mini Speaker
Okay, Google, your Home Mini and Nest speakers are nicely designed, but there’s always room for improvement – right? This free design turns the speaker into a fashionable retro-modern-looking design object, and once you add a power bank, you have a portable boombox. There’s no soldering required, and you can even exchange the face plates easily.
Who made it? Jordan Proctor Designs
Where to download: Printables
Welby Mantle Clock
German 50s and 60s design is making its revival, with prices soaring up. For a mid-century Welby mantle clock, for example, you might pay to 1,000 to 2,500 bucks. So why not print it? All you need is a battery-driven clockwork, your printer, and some filament in the right colors.
Who made it? Mark Richardso
Where to download: Printables
Sextant
As Wikipedia says, “A sextant is a doubly reflecting navigation instrument that measures the angular distance between two visible objects.” This allows for precise navigation at sea, and sextants brought millions of sailors home safely. Its design hasn’t significantly changed over centuries. This 3D printed, fully functional sextant with vernier scale precision of 6 geographical minutes can be printed and assembled over a weekend.
Who made it? Bodek152
Where to download: Thingiverse
Soft Tape Measure Spool
A cloth measuring tape is something most people have in a drawer somewhere. Normally the tape starts to unwind and is all over the place, but with this simple, print-in-place design, you tame it. A small winder lets you pull it back once you’ve measured. You can also customize the design to your liking with the provided OpenSCAD file.
Who made it? Aprotim Sanyal
Where to download: Thingiverse
D&D Tracker Book
Any decent D&D and tabletop roleplaying gamer is confronted with a lot of “bookkeeping” during a gaming session. How many hitpoints does my character have left? Did I memorize my Elemental Weapon spell properly? And where have those darn dice gone? This “book” will help you to keep track of your stats. If you’re just looking for a cool way to store your dice, there’s also a smaller version of the D&D tracker box.
Who made it? Digitale Lehrerin
Where to download: Printables
Brick Stackable Desk Boxes
Existing in a space somewhere between playfulness and cleanliness, these stackable desk boxes can be attached and detached easily. They are five times the size of a certain iconic brick brand, and bring a bit of childhood nostalgia into your office. Currently, there are two versions available (2×2 and 2×4 size).
Who made it? Sakul
Where to download: MakerWorld
Hanging Lamp
There are people making decent money with 3D printed lamp shades, but Plaground has generously decided to give away their model for free. The lamp comes in just two parts that can be slipped over the power cable.
The highly diffused light shines evenly through a thin layer in the middle. We don’t need to remind you that you only should use LED bulbs due to heat reasons.
Who made it? Plaground
Where to download: Cults
3D QR Code Generator
There are plenty of cases where it’s way more useful to 3D print a QR code instead of printing it on paper – displaying it outdoors, for example. A browser-based website will turn your input into a QR code and allow you to download the generated code as an STL. All you need to do is fire up your slicer. Minutes later, your 3D printed QR code is ready for display.
Who made it? pedRamezani
Where to download: Printables
Birdfeeder
There’s no shortage of cool birdfeeders designed by the 3D printing community, but we found this model to look particularly stunning. Although the design might look difficult to print, it can be printed standing up without support structures. All you need is a large brim for better adhesion of the print.
Who made it? Printednest
Where to download: MakerWorld
Monolith Cryptic Calendar
Sometimes, things make only sense when put into the right frame. In this case, some cryptic lettering on the columns turns into days and months once you move the overlay frame. This particular model won a designer contest award at the file repository Printables.
Who made it? Sevro
Where to download: Printables
Hand Crank Generator
Magnets and kinetic energy is a versatile and, fortunately for this project, scalable combo to generate electricity. All you need for this mini, crankable generator are some basic parts (bearings, copper wire, diodes, capacitors, and high-grade magnets), a free weekend, and a good look at the detailed video instructions. Once the build is finished, turn the crank to charge the capacitors or a separate power bank. Though we wonder how long it’ll take until someone hooks it up to a hamster wheel…
Who made it? Tom Stanton
Where to download: Printables
Low Poly Tray
Sometimes, a simple design is just the right thing. This low polygon design is perfect as is and can’t be improved if you ask us. If you’re looking for a simple, stylish tray to hold your stuff and look good doing it, this is the free model to go for.
Who made it? Markus
Where to download: Printables
Desktop Trash Can
For some of us, keeping your desktop tidy can become quite a feat. So, with this three-part print (can, top, and lid), you will have a place for all those old stickies, chocolate bar wraps, and pencil sharpener waste. Trust us, this helps.
Who made it? RestoreDoctor
Where to download: Printables
Zen Garden
This little Zen garden won’t take the hardship and trouble out of your daily life. But once you’ve raked the sand, put the parts in the proper places, and watered your plant, you should feel a bit more in touch with yourself. Most parts can be 3D printed; just add some sand, small rocks, and a plant.
Who made it? Jacob Cardwell
Where to download: Printables
Triaxial Numechron Clock
This clock has some tricks up its sleeve. First, it uses just one stepper motor to run the whole mechanism. Second, it uses two cylinders and a disc to display the proper time. Third, it is easy to read from most angles. It may be a bit demanding to build for a beginner, but if you have some experience with DIY projects, this is a rewarding build.
Who made it? Shinsaku Hiura
Where to download: Thingiverse
Cable Repair
Our phone’s charging cables see daily use, and most of us aren’t too particular about unplugging them carefully. So, these cables have a tendency to break. If your Samsung USB-C or iPhone Lightning cables show signs of wear and tear, print this small two-part thingie and attach it to the cable to keep it from breaking or, god forbid, from shorting your precious phone.
Who made it? Jan
Where to download: Printables
Miniature Nerf Blaster
This toy gun design has a fascinating back story, and you should watch the video explaining it. After having built the world’s largest Nerf gun, YouTuber and engineer Marc Rober wanted to go for the opposite: The smallest working Nerf gun in the world. He and a team of scientists managed to shrink a working Nerf blaster to the size of a hair and even go beyond that. Unless your 3D printer can print with carbon nanotubes, you won’t make it that far, but it’s definitely worth exploring the wonderful one-piece compliant mechanism.
Who made it? BYUCMR
Where to download: Cults
Chair
Here is an excellent example of convincing friends and family why a 3D printer is indispensable to your maker’s arsenal. This chair, designed by industrial designer Niels van Valburg for filament maker Colorfabb, is easy to make. You print the brackets with durable filament (Colorfabb suggests their nGen Flex), buy the plywood at any hardware store, and then plug the parts together. For those with CAD skills, files are available to adapt and customize a comfy version for you.
Who made it? Colorfabb
Where to download: Cults
Headphone Hanger
Our desks tend to clutter in mysterious ways. Paper piles appear out of nowhere, as do assortments of mugs, glasses, pens, and coins. Most likely, there’s so much stuff that you can’t find your keys. Well, at least you can get those bulky headphones out of the way. The headphone holder fits any tabletop up to 25 mm thick and can handle a headband width of 45 mm wide. It’s also great for hanging a backpack or handbag out of the way.
Who made it? BeLittleMaker
Where to download: Thingiverse
Toilet Paper Roll Holder
It’s always smart to have some spares around … that’s especially true for toilet paper rolls. This Shawn-the-Sheep-themed model holds one roll, is easy to print and assemble and looks as fluffy as a sheep itself. Cute!
Who made it? Enno Grensemann
Where to download: Thingiverse
Simple Card Box
This print is done in no time; you won’t need support structures and it will keep your precious card decks intact and complete. There’s an alternate version for a “poker” card deck” with slightly different dimensions.
Who made it? Clockspring
Where to download: Printables
PET Filament Maker
The soft drink industry gladly takes our money and leaves us not only a sugary aftertaste but also a whopping 1.3 billion plastic bottles used per day.
One way of recycling them is the 3D printable PETamentor2. It turns waste plastic bottles into 3D printing filament. A cutter slices the bottle into small strands, which then get compacted in a heated nozzle. The result is a strand of filament you can use for future projects. Most parts of the PETamentor2 are 3D printed. Building, handling, and operating the machine isn’t overly complicated. Our verdict? It’s so much better than just throwing stuff away.
Who made it? Tofna1
Where to download: PETamentor2
Bottle Cap Boy
If you’re looking for a way to find a use for waste plastic bottle caps, this is a fun project. This 1-hour print will hold your nozzles, small coins, seeds, teeth, magnets, or whatever you want to store. It’s compatible with most 500 ml bottles, but there are versions for US bottle caps.
Who made it? RoughlyModule
Where to download: Thingiverse
Paper Alphabet Embosser
Initially created for an adventure race, these 3D printed stamp-like embosser tools can make your belongings more interesting. Use them to emboss thin, smooth, and flat surfaces, like paper, cardstock, paper, vellum, textile fabric, parchment, or leather.
Who made it? Andor_Yok
Where to download: Printables
Flat Pocket Whistle
This whistle is small, looks great, fits snugly on a keyring, and emits a clear, high dual-tone sound. Despite its size and height (only 3mm), it’s actually quite loud! Don’t use support structures when printing it, and make sure the first layer is just right.
Who made it? Jonas Daehnert
Where to download: Printables
RC Plane
Are you into flying things? Here comes a lightweight plane that’s easy to assemble and offers excellent flight characteristics. According to the designers, the Piper J-3 Cub model airplane makes an ideal beginner’s project for RC pilots. In case of an accident, parts can be quickly reprinted with just the filament cost.
You’ll need a little patience, though, as you’ll have to print 126 parts. Best use a material like PolyLight LW-PLA, as your standard PLA is too heavy for that bird.
Who made it? 3D Lab Print
Where to download: Printables
Customizable Keychain
How about a personalized keyring with your name, which you can use as a fidget toy? Pick the letters, then choose a base for up to 15 characters. The free download contains the alphabet in a standard font with non-rotating letters. Or with rotating letters if you like to keep your fingers busy.
Who made it? Layermodels
Where to download: Thingiverse
Wi-Fi QR Code Sign
If you work at a front desk or another public space, you’ll love this: Here’s a 3D printed stand to share your Wi-Fi hotspot SSID and passcode with your guests.
Most smartphones can interpret QR codes and perform the actions encoded within, such as automatically connecting to a Wi-Fi network – no input required. Just follow Radiojack’s instructions (link below), generate the QR code in Tinkercad, and print. There’s a fridge version with magnets, too.
Who made it? Radiojack
Where to download: Printables
Mini Hanging Storage Container
This two-part mini container safely stores small items. For example, you can use it for medication or to store geocaching items in it. You can also attach it to a keyring, wear it with a leather band around your neck, or attach it to your rucksack. To make it more watertight, add a rubber O-ring. You can also download a version with a flat lid.
Who made it? Sytan
Where to download: Printables
Shoe Organizer
While the average American male owns at least six pairs of sneakers, women have 19 pairs of shoes on average. Since we all know how much space shoes can take up, master the mess with this 3D printed rack which helps you to store your shoes in a practical and space-saving way.
Who made it? Jordi_id7
Where to download: Thingiverse
Minichess
Nowadays, chess has become super-standardized. With the rise of chess software, opening databases, and grandmasters galore, much of the raw grit and brutal fun has been taken out of the game.
This changes with Minichess. It’s played on a 5×5 board with fewer pieces. As it’s extremely condensed, the war is on from the first move.
Printing the board and pieces should be straightforward, and you can make the set satisfyingly snappy with small magnets to hold the storage tray in place. We wish you all the best in crushing your opponents.
Who made it? Daniel Beaver
Where to download: Cults
Gravity Broom-Holder
If you’re tired of playing real-life Mikado with broomsticks in your cabinet, it’s time to print this ingenious little helper. It uses a rolling gear and the broom’s weight to clamp the stick securely. To remove it, slightly lift the handle towards and outward the direction of the gear. Let it settle back down to lock in place. Why didn’t we have this decades ago?
Who made it? LoboCNC
Where to download: Printables
3-Digits Combination Safe Box
This safe uses a 3-digit combination to prevent anyone from snatching your valuables. Of course, it’s not as secure as its steel cousin (you can melt or crush plastic, right?), but it’s a fun project anyway.
Though the instructions are exemplary, DIY beginners might be a little overwhelmed with the assembly. However, anyone who has already managed more complex projects should build this safe – it’ll teach you a lot about how a combination safe works.
Who made it? Hugo
Where to download: Printables
Tally Counter
Sometimes you want to keep track of things. If you want to count people, things, cars, or even cats, this practical tool lets you do that with a press of a thumb without having to think about the actual number. It counts up to 99, and you can also subtract numbers.
The mechanical tally counter isn’t too complicated to print and build, and makes for a lovely weekend project.
Who made it? FredrikHamrebjorkDesigns
Where to download: Printables
Hexx Case Tool Roll
Looking at an old Dutch Rolykit Toolbox, maker Davie came up with this ingenious design to store your tools. These individual compartments can be rolled into a compact hexagonal toolbox, and still, everything stays in its place.
If you like the idea, you’ll find more clever tool storage designs on his Thingiverse profile.
Who made it? Davie CC
Where to download: Thingiverse
Oreo Box
Every 3D printing enthusiast worth their salt has plenty of black and white filament around. Now you can use it to print this handy Oreo Cookie Box! The 3D printable design has been around for a while, but this particular model has been completely revamped. Two versions are available (90mm and 180mm diameter). Yummy!
Who made it? Robert Wiley
Where to download: Cults
Battery Dispenser
Batteries tend to be live their life in drawers (and the last one has the tendency to get lost in the last corner of the drawer). If you want to present them more prominently, print just this dispenser. It holds 20 AA and 35 AAA batteries.
Who made it? Fabien Fa
Where to download: Thingiverse
Squeeze Fan
Is it getting hot outside? Are you in desperate need of cooling? Well, this 3D printed fan, once assembled, can actually be used to cool you down. It is powered by a squeezing mechanism that doesn’t require additional batteries and, according to its maker, it’s more than just a toy.
Who made it? George Zhu
Where to download: Printables
LED Hexagonal Panels
Is it a lamp? Is it art? Is it both? That’s for you to decide, but if you decide to download the files, you should note that printing one of these panels takes 2.5 hours, and a lid 1.5 hours. Most parts snap together, so you’ll only need an LED strip, and a tiny bit of superglue.
Who made it? Bigjim36
Where to download: Thingiverse
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 just three parts, with the assembly instructions found on the Thingiverse page.
Who made it? Aljaz Titoric
Where to download: Thingiverse
Quick Grab/Release Phone Stand
This phone stand not only allows multiple viewing angles, but also offers a quick grab/release mechanism, locking the phone tightly in the stand and releasing it when you pick it up. The design works nicely with larger smartphones and is entirely printable, with the exception of a small extension spring that needs to be installed when putting the stand together.
Who made it? Arron Mollet
Where to download? Thingiverse
Groovi Monster Sound Amplifier
Self-Watering Planter
Houseplants dying from neglect? NEVER AGAIN. Print off this automatic plant waterer, and your conscience will remain clean. Particularly useful for kitchen herbs, where you can make them last up to a week longer by re-potting in this natty device.
Who made it: Parallel Goods
Where to download it: Cults
Card Deck Shuffler
Those prone to mid-shuffle fumbles, your Poker face-saving prayers are answered! MyMiniFactory user LarsRb has concocted this colorful creation with the sole purpose to successfully shuffle decks of cards up to official poker card size.
Who made it: LarsRb
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
Digital Sundial
Your eyes do not deceive you. This insanely cool thing to 3D print is a digital sundial. And it really does work. The shape of the sundial has been engineered to only let through the right rays at the right time and angle, so it can display the actual time at 20 minute intervals. Operational only during daylight hours, naturally, between 10:00 and 16:00.
Who made it: Mojoptix
Where to download it: Thingiverse
So you made it to the bottom of this list and still are looking for cool models to 3D print? Here are 50 models that you can print in under one hour:
Image credits: All images copyright their respective owners
License: The text of "50 Cool Things to 3D Print for April 2024" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.