Why 3D Print a Clamp?
While 3D printed clamps may not be as durable as store-bought ones, their strength may surprise you. There’s also a large variety, making finding the perfect clamp very simple.
With a bit of modeling experience, they allow for customization of shape and size as well, so you can guarantee it will fit where you need it to.
Whether you need a very specific size clamp or you just need something for general use, read on!
G-Clamp
What is it? The classic G-shaped clamp, which is perfect for basic applications. This model is a simple yet effective build. It’s only three pieces, making it a very easy and quick print.
Who designed it? johann517
Who printed it? This model has been printed over 500 times, which speaks volumes to its popularity and effectiveness.
Where to find it? Thingiverse
Hand-Screw Clamp
What is it? If you want the strongest purely-3D-printed clamp, look no further. The designer made everything as strong as he could, and he even provided instructions on which orientations provide the strongest results. However, this does mean it won’t be the simplest build.
Who designed it? jakejake
Who printed it? This clamp has been printed almost 250 times in a plethora of materials, sizes, and colors!
Where to find it? Thingiverse
Quick Grip Trigger Clamp
What is it? This clamp is a very complex model, but it’s built for functionality. It can grip much harder than the other models and is very easy to use, but it does require springs and some assembly.
Who designed it? ARRON_MOLLET22
Who printed it? This clamp has been built by four other users (on Thingiverse), which isn’t surprising considering its complexity. Still, all five makes appear convincingly tough.
Where to find it? Cults
Quick Clamp
What is it? While this model may not be the strongest clamp, it is very easy to use. After minimal assembly and no extra parts, it quickly slides to the desired size and locks in. No screwing or unscrewing required.
Who designed it? LoboCNC
Who printed it? This model has been made by 30 other makers, all of whom appear to be enjoying a little more stability in their workshops.
Where to find it? Thingiverse
Twistlock Clamp
What is it? This model is a good middle ground, as it combines ease of use, strength, and relatively minimal assembly. The knob makes it easier to get a strong grip, and its thick design makes it very durable.
Who designed it? JakeJake
Who printed it? This model has been downloaded over 200 times, and was successfully printed many times by the creator.
Where to find it? Cults
Screw Clamp
What is it? This is another all-around good clamp, both strong and easy to assemble. In addition, it’s shaped differently from all the others, so it may be able to fit into places that others cannot.
Who designed it? Jacks-Filament
Who printed it? This model has been downloaded over 7000 times and made 14 times, indicating a warm community reception.
Where to find it? Thingiverse
Vise Clamp
What is it? Unique from the other models, this design produces a vise clamp. You can mount it to a table in your workshop for a strong and convenient way to hold things while you work. It’ll require some assembly, but it’ll be worth it.
Who designed it? Rogerio Chaves Gattis
Who printed it? Although nobody has shared their creation, this model has been downloaded almost 400 times. Why not change that?
Where to find it? MyMiniFactory
Customizable G-Clamp
What is it? This model is very similar to other G-clamps but is completely customizable. You can change its thickness, length, and width to get the perfect fit for your application.
Who designed it? 247generator
Who printed it? ABU_JAYDEN successfully printed his customized version of this model.
Where to find it? Thingiverse
Double Clamp
What is it? This model has two clamping mechanisms attached at a 90-degree angle. This allows you to hold two things together, or mount something to a table.
Who designed it? JULIEN_DACOSTA
Who printed it? This model has bee downloaded almost 400 times.
Where to find it? Cults
Desk Clamp
What is it? This model is meant to hang different objects off your desk. It works best with headphones, but it is easily customizable and can work with phones as well.
Who designed it? Inventorsquare
Who printed it? This clamp has been downloaded 88 times, saving 88 desks from holding an additional headphone-sized object.
Where to find it? MyMiniFactory
(Lead image source: jakejake via Thingiverse)