While many of us are still stuck isolating at home due to the ongoing health crisis, it’s important to find ways to productively fill up all this free time. Now’s the perfect time to exercise your creativity, and trying your hand at 3D printing is a great way to do so. Indeed, 3D printers are some of the most exciting tech developments to come out in recent years, and we have written about the evolution of 3D tech extensively.
Of course, you’ll also need the right setup to supplement your work. Fortunately, today’s personal laptops and computers are powerful enough to handle the software needed to create 3D models for advanced design projects. Choosing the right option for you will allow you to focus on creating, minus the worry about computer crashes. When paired with a 3D printer, the project possibilities are truly endless!
Without further ado, here are some of the most interesting projects you can make with a 3D printer.
Quadcopters
You’re probably missing the outside world right about now, and a quadcopter may be the answer to your problems. Quadcopters and drones are an extremely popular way to utilize 3D printing, as it presents a lot of possibilities when it comes to picking the right design, testing against crash resistance, and the like. If you have your own drone, you can also use a 3D printer to supplement its frame. With a few additional nuts and bolts, you’ll have in your hands a home project that’s definitely going to keep you busy.
Smartphone stands
If you want a quirky little gift to send to your loved ones, why not make a functional smartphone stand? You can opt to make one with a full-on frame and stand, or maybe create a slim dock that your phone can easily slide in. For those who want to really be creative, you can model your smartphone stand after your favorite cartoon character or add some cool designs on the side.
Webcam covers
Webcam covers have risen in popularity over the past few months, especially with more consumers wanting to take privacy into their own hands. These little tech accessories are easy enough to come by online, but you can also opt to just make your own. Tons of users have put up templates for 3D-printed webcam covers, and all you need afterwards is some double-sided tape to stick your creation onto your laptop.
Stackable planters
Cultivating your green thumb is another great way to pass the time while at home, and you can combine two projects in one by printing your own planter. If you’re someone who has never tried taking care of plants before, you can opt to start by creating a small planter that can house an easy-to-care-for succulent. Many planter templates come in fun geometric shapes, making it the perfect desk accessory, too.
Figurines
Last but not least, you can also just opt to make a standalone figurine of a cartoon or TV show of your choice. Not every 3D printing project has to be functional; let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just cool to create a state of Pickle Rick or a DC superhero. As with the smartphone stands, this is also a great gift to surprise your loved ones — or even roommates — with.
And there you have it, five interesting projects to make with a 3D printer. There are lots of other 3D printing projects out there, but these five should be good enough to get you started.
