Best 20 Useful 3D Prints

3D printing has revolutionized the way we approach manufacturing, prototyping, and customization. This technology enables the creation of a wide variety of functional and customizable objects, each tailored to meet specific needs with precision and efficiency. Whether you're an engineer, a hobbyist, or someone who enjoys tinkering in the workshop, 3D printing offers unparalleled flexibility in designing and producing tools, organizational aids, and other practical items. In this technical overview, we’ll delve into 20 meticulously designed 3D printed objects that can significantly enhance your workshop, streamline your organizational efforts, and boost your overall productivity.

Why 3D Printing?

The ability to design and manufacture objects in-house with a 3D printer provides several key advantages:

• Customization:You can design objects to your exact specifications, ensuring they meet your specific requirements. This level of customization is particularly valuable in the creation of tools and organizational solutions that fit perfectly in your workspace.
• Cost-Effectiveness:3D printing reduces the need for expensive, mass-produced tools and parts. By printing only what you need, you can save on material costs and reduce waste.
• Rapid Prototyping:With 3D printing, you can quickly prototype and test new designs. This iterative process allows for rapid development and refinement, leading to better end products.
• On-Demand Production:Instead of waiting for parts to be shipped, you can produce them on-demand, minimizing downtime in your projects.

Exploring 20 Practical 3D Printed Objects

In this overview, we’ll explore a selection of 20 practical 3D printed objects, each chosen for its utility, ease of customization, and potential to improve your workflow. These objects range from tool organizers and measuring devices to complex assemblies like CNC machines, all of which demonstrate the versatility and power of 3D printing technology.

 

1. Gridfinity System

Project URL: https://than.gs/m/60721

 

The Gridfinity system is a modular and customizable organizational solution that uses a grid layout to maximize workspace efficiency. Each component is designed to snap securely into place, providing flexible storage for tools and parts. The use of different materials like PLA or PETG can enhance durability, while the grid design allows for easy expansion and customization.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Infill:20-30%.
• Customizable Features:Magnetic bases, reinforced walls.

Why It’s Useful:

The Gridfinity Modular Storage System allows for a highly customizable organization of small tools, parts, and materials. Its modular nature means you can adapt and expand the system as your storage needs change, creating a perfectly tailored solution for your workspace. This flexibility is particularly useful for workshops with varying tool sizes and shapes, as you can design specific compartments for each item, ensuring everything is easily accessible and neatly organized.

2. Metric Screw Measuring Device M2-M12

 

Project URL: https://than.gs/m/1071087

This device accurately measures screws from M2 to M12, with options for M16, M20, and M24. It’s designed for precise tolerances, ensuring reliable measurement of various metric screws. It’s ideal for mechanical and engineering applications where precision is key.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:ABS for rigidity.
• Layer Height:1mm.
• Accuracy:Requires post-print calibration.

Why It’s Useful:

This measuring device is essential for anyone who regularly works with metric screws. It allows you to quickly and accurately determine the size of screws from M2 to M24, eliminating guesswork and ensuring that you select the correct screw for your project. This tool is especially beneficial in environments where precision is critical, such as in mechanical engineering or manufacturing, where the wrong screw size can lead to assembly errors or compromised structural integrity.

3. GEN2 Drawers - Standard

 

Project URL: https://than.gs/m/1042322

GEN2 Drawers offer a modular storage solution with reinforced corners and smooth-sliding mechanisms. The design can be customized to fit specific storage needs, making it ideal for organizing small parts and tools.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Infill:15-25%.
• Customization:Adjustable drawer dimensions.

Why It’s Useful:

The GEN2 Drawers provide a customizable storage solution that can be tailored to fit any workshop. Whether you need to organize small components like screws and nuts or larger tools, these drawers can be sized and arranged to meet your specific needs. The ability to stack and configure them as required makes them a versatile option for maximizing storage space and maintaining an orderly workspace.

4. Cordless Drill Caddy

Project URL: https://than.gs/m/1056169

The Cordless Drill Caddy is designed for secure storage of cordless drills and accessories. It features slots for drill bits and batteries, with a design optimized for FDM printing. Customization options include adjusting dimensions for different drill models.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PETG or ABS.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Mounting Options:Screw slots or adhesive backing.

Why It’s Useful:

This caddy is designed to keep your cordless drill and its accessories organized and easily accessible. By providing a dedicated place for your drill, batteries, and bits, the caddy reduces the time spent searching for tools, which increases efficiency during projects. It also helps protect your drill from damage by keeping it securely in place, whether mounted on a wall or sitting on your workbench.

5. Speed Square (Metric and Imperial)

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4656204

The Speed Square is a multifunctional tool for precision marking and measuring, available in both metric and imperial units. It features engraved measurements that can be printed with dual extrusion for enhanced visibility.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or nylon.
• Layer Height:1-0.15mm.
• Infill:50% or higher.

Why It’s Useful:

A Speed Square is an indispensable tool in carpentry and metalworking, used for marking, measuring, and ensuring precise angles. This 3D-printed version, which includes both metric and imperial measurements, offers versatility and accuracy in one tool. It’s especially useful for making quick, accurate cuts and ensuring that your workpieces are properly aligned, which is crucial for structural integrity in construction and DIY projects.

6. PCB Workstation Kit with Articulated Arms

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:801279

This workstation provides a stable platform for holding circuit boards during soldering or assembly. The articulated arms are adjustable for precise component placement. The design allows for customization, such as adding more arms or adjusting the base size.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:TPU for flexible arms, PLA for the base.
• Layer Height:1mm.
• Modularity:Customizable arm and base dimensions.

Why It’s Useful:

For anyone working with electronics, this PCB workstation kit is invaluable. The articulated arms securely hold your circuit boards in place, allowing for hands-free soldering, assembly, and inspection. This improves precision and safety, particularly when working with delicate components. The flexibility of the arms also means you can position the PCB at the optimal angle, reducing strain and increasing accuracy during intricate tasks.

7. Mostly Printed CNC "MPCNC" BURLY C-23.5mm OD

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:724999

The MPCNC is a robust, scalable CNC machine that combines 3D printed parts with metal rods. Designed for milling, cutting, and carving, it’s an advanced project that requires careful assembly and calibration for optimal performance.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Calibration:Precision assembly required.

Why It’s Useful:

The MPCNC is a partially 3D-printed CNC machine that offers a cost-effective solution for milling, cutting, and engraving. It’s useful for anyone who needs a CNC machine but doesn’t want to invest in a commercial unit. This machine can be customized to different sizes and can handle a variety of materials, making it a versatile tool for both professional and hobbyist makers who need to create precise, repeatable designs.

8. Sanding Tools - Hands & Machines

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4877472

These sanding tools are designed for both hand use and machine attachments, providing versatility for various sanding tasks. The tools can be printed with different infills and materials to suit specific needs, such as flexibility or rigidity.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA for rigidity, or PETG..
• Infill:20-40%.
• Customization:Adjust for specific sanding attachments.

Why It’s Useful:

These sanding tools are designed to improve the efficiency and comfort of sanding tasks, whether by hand or with a machine. By offering ergonomic grips and customizable shapes, these tools help reduce fatigue during extended sanding sessions and allow for more precise control, leading to better finishes on wood, metal, and plastic surfaces.

9. Hot Glue Gun Stand - Narrow

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5135495

This stand securely holds a hot glue gun, preventing drips and ensuring safety. The design includes a tray for collecting glue drips and can be customized to fit different glue gun models.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable dimensions for different glue guns.

Why It’s Useful:

This stand provides a stable, upright position for your hot glue gun, preventing glue from dripping onto your work surface. The built-in drip tray keeps your workspace clean, and the narrow design saves space while still providing secure support for the gun. This is particularly useful in busy workshops where space is at a premium, and efficiency is key.

10. DREMEL Drill Press (Very Strong and Precise)

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4148260

This drill press attachment is designed for precision drilling with a Dremel rotary tool. The design ensures stability and accuracy, making it suitable for detailed work on small projects. The attachment can be adjusted for different drill bit sizes.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or ABS.
• Layer Height:1-0.2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for various Dremel models.

Why It’s Useful:

This drill press attachment turns a Dremel rotary tool into a precise drilling machine, ideal for detailed work that requires accuracy and control. It’s especially useful for tasks like drilling small holes in wood, plastic, or metal, where a handheld tool might wobble or produce uneven results. The attachment ensures consistent depth and alignment, which is critical for professional-quality work.

11. Handles for M3 to M6 Bolts and Screws

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5532943

These handles are designed to fit M3 to M6 bolts and screws, providing better grip and torque. The ergonomic design can be customized for different hand sizes and preferences.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or ABS.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Customization:Adjust handle size for comfort.

Why It’s Useful:

These customizable handles allow you to create ergonomic tools for working with M3 to M6 bolts and screws. The improved grip and increased torque provided by the handles make it easier to tighten or loosen fasteners, reducing the strain on your hands and improving efficiency. This is particularly useful in assembly tasks where precision and comfort are important.

12. Customizable Ruler Stop / Speed Marker / Linealanschlag

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5179202

This ruler stop can be customized to fit various ruler sizes, offering precision marking for woodworking and other projects. The stop can be adjusted for different angles and lengths, providing versatility in measurements.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Layer Height:1-0.2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for different ruler sizes.

Why It’s Useful:

This ruler stop is designed to enhance accuracy in repetitive marking tasks. By securing the ruler in place, it ensures consistent measurements and straight lines, which are essential in tasks like cutting, drilling, or layout work. The customization options allow it to fit different rulers, making it a versatile tool for various applications.

13. Dremel Router Attachment for Rotary Tool

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:435732

This attachment converts a Dremel rotary tool into a router, suitable for detailed carving and engraving. The design is optimized for stability and can be customized for different bit sizes.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or ABS.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for different router bit sizes.

Why It’s Useful:

This router attachment transforms a Dremel rotary tool into a versatile router, capable of engraving, cutting, and shaping a wide range of materials. It’s useful for detailed woodworking, model making, and other tasks where precision is paramount. The attachment provides stability and control, allowing for intricate designs and clean edges.

14. Centre Finder for Drill

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3366257

This tool helps accurately find the center of a workpiece before drilling. It’s designed to fit various drill bit sizes and can be printed with high precision for reliable results.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Layer Height:1mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for different workpiece sizes.

Why It’s Useful:

A center finder is essential for ensuring that drill holes are perfectly aligned with the center of a workpiece. This tool is particularly useful in tasks that require high precision, such as creating dowel joints or aligning components in mechanical assemblies. Accurate centering reduces errors and improves the overall quality of the final product.

15. Pump Hand Drill

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:731086

The Pump Hand Drill is a manually operated drill, suitable for small and precise drilling tasks. The design is simple yet effective, with a pump action that provides consistent drilling power.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or ABS.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for different drill bit sizes.

Why It’s Useful:

The pump hand drill is a manually operated tool that’s ideal for situations where power tools are unavailable or impractical. Its simple mechanism provides controlled, steady drilling, making it useful for delicate tasks or in environments without electricity. It’s also a great tool for teaching the basics of drilling to beginners, as it offers a tactile understanding of the process.

16. Modular Drawers 2.0

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2539830

These modular drawers offer customizable storage options, ideal for organizing small parts and tools. The drawers can be stacked and arranged in various configurations, with options for different sizes and divider inserts.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Infill:20-30%.
• Customization:Adjustable drawer dimensions and divider options.

Why It’s Useful:

These modular drawers offer a scalable and customizable storage solution for organizing tools, parts, and materials. Their flexibility allows you to create a storage system that grows with your needs, ensuring that everything has a place and is easy to find. This level of organization improves workflow and reduces the time spent searching for items.

17. STANDARD SIZED - Universal Spool Holder

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:943563

This spool holder is designed to accommodate standard-sized filament spools, providing a stable and smooth feeding system for 3D printers. The design can be customized for different spool diameters and widths.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for various spool sizes.

Why It’s Useful:

This spool holder is designed to accommodate a variety of filament spool sizes, making it a versatile addition to any 3D printing setup. It ensures smooth filament feeding, reducing tangles and ensuring consistent prints. This is especially useful in workshops that use multiple types of filament, as it prevents interruptions and maintains print quality.

18. Ender 3 Tool Holder

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3877505

This tool holder is specifically designed for the Ender 3 3D printer, providing convenient storage for essential tools like scrapers, pliers, and nozzles. The design attaches directly to the printer frame, keeping tools within easy reach.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for different tools and printer models.

Why It’s Useful:

The Ender 3 tool holder is a practical addition to the Ender 3 3D printer, providing a convenient place to store essential tools like scrapers, tweezers, and pliers. By keeping tools within easy reach, it improves efficiency and helps maintain a clean, organized workspace, which is crucial for achieving high-quality prints.

19. Serious Centre Finder

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1213459

The Serious Centre Finder is a robust tool for accurately locating the center of a workpiece before drilling. It’s designed for heavy-duty use, the larger the round object the more precise the lines will be.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or ABS.
• Layer Height:1-0.2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for various workpiece sizes

Why It’s Useful:

This heavy-duty center finder is designed for tasks that require exact alignment, such as drilling or milling operations. Its robust design ensures durability and precision, making it an essential tool for professionals who need to align components accurately, especially when working with larger materials or thicker workpieces.

20. Tape Dispenser Vers. TD3 - 3, 4 & 6 Inch Wide

Project URL: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4927980

This tape dispenser is designed for industrial use, accommodating tape rolls 3, 4, and 6 inches wide. The dispenser features a sharp cutting edge and a sturdy frame, with options to adjust for different roll diameters.

Technical Highlights:

• Material:PLA or PETG.
• Layer Height:2mm.
• Customization:Adjustable for different tape widths and diameters.

Why It’s Useful:

This industrial-grade tape dispenser is designed for heavy-duty use, accommodating wide rolls of tape and featuring a sharp cutting edge for clean cuts. It’s particularly useful in packaging, construction, and other environments where high volumes of tape are used, as it improves efficiency and reduces waste.

FAQs: Expanded Technical Insights

1. What are some common uses of 3D printing?

Tool and Part Manufacturing:

• Custom Tools:3D printing allows the creation of specialized tools tailored to specific tasks. For example, creating a wrench or screwdriver that fits a non-standard size, or making a jig that holds a workpiece in place for machining. Engineers and DIY enthusiasts can quickly prototype and refine these tools to meet exact specifications.
• Replacement Parts:When a part of a machine or device breaks, finding a replacement can be time-consuming and costly, especially for older or discontinued models. 3D printing enables the rapid production of these parts, often with improved durability by optimizing the material and design.
• Jigs and Fixtures:In manufacturing, jigs and fixtures are crucial for ensuring consistency and precision. 3D printing allows for the quick production of these components, which can be customized for specific production runs or individual projects.

Prototyping:

• Rapid Development:3D printing accelerates the design process by enabling the creation of physical prototypes in a matter of hours or days rather than weeks. This rapid iteration allows designers and engineers to test form, fit, and function before committing to mass production.
• Design Iteration:Prototyping with 3D printing makes it easier to refine designs based on feedback or testing. Changes can be made to digital models, reprinted, and retested, allowing for continuous improvement until the optimal design is achieved.

Customization:

• Tailored Solutions:Whether it's a medical device designed to fit a specific patient or a custom phone case with a personalized design, 3D printing excels at creating one-of-a-kind objects. Customization can extend to size, shape, material, and even color, offering unparalleled flexibility in design.
• On-Demand Production:3D printing eliminates the need for large inventories by allowing products to be made on-demand. This is particularly useful in industries where each product may need to be different, such as in orthotics, jewelry, or custom automotive parts.

2. What are the most useful things to 3D print?

One of the most useful 3D printed items is custom prosthetics. They are affordable, tailored to individual needs, and significantly improve quality of life for those who need them. Other useful things to print are as follow:

Functional Tools:

• Screwdrivers and Wrenches:These are often printed for specific jobs that require non-standard tool sizes or for use in tight spaces where conventional tools don’t fit. The ability to design ergonomic handles or add specific features like magnetized tips adds to their utility.
• Holders and Clamps:From tool holders mounted on workbenches to clamps used in woodworking or metalworking, these items are frequently printed to keep tools organized and secure. Customized clamps can be designed to fit unusual shapes or specific materials.

Organizational Items:

• Bins and Drawers:3D printed bins and modular drawers help organize workspaces, from desks to entire workshops. They can be designed to fit specific tools, components, or materials, ensuring that everything has its place.
• Cable Management Solutions:Cable organizers, clips, and holders are popular 3D prints that help manage and tidy up the often chaotic mess of cables in home offices, entertainment centers, or server rooms. These can be customized to fit different cable diameters and mounting surfaces.

Gadgets and Accessories:

• Phone Stands and Holders:These are among the most common 3D printed items due to their simplicity and utility. Designs can range from simple stands to more complex holders that integrate charging docks or speakers.
• Gaming Accessories:From controller holders to custom keycaps and stands for gaming consoles, the gaming community frequently uses 3D printing to enhance their setups. These accessories are often customized with specific themes or ergonomic features.
• Kitchen Tools:Items like measuring spoons, egg separators, or even custom cookie cutters are popular 3D prints. These tools often incorporate innovative designs that improve usability or provide solutions to niche cooking challenges.