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10 unconventional but useful things to 3D print

3D printing technology is set to become an invaluable manufacturing tool, with trend reports indicating that the 3D printing market is doubling in size every three years.

But while technology is still evolving, those of you who have invested in a 3D printer may not yet be sure of its full potential.

Looking for things to 3D print? Keep reading to find out!

  1. Children's drawing figurine

One ​​of the main advantages of 3D printing is how flexible the technology is, allowing you to adjust your design for ultimate customization. For example, it is even possible to transform a drawing by your child into a figurine. Of all the things to 3D print, we admit it's not the most useful, but your child's face is sure to light up when they see one of their IRL artwork!

  1. Hexagon ratchet

This sturdy 1/4 inch ratchet will take you less than an hour to print, and it doesn't need glue or fasteners. Clip it to your key ring to make adjustments on the go.

  1. Recycled cardboard mould

When you think of things to do with a 3D printer, recycling doesn't usually come to mind. But, thanks to 3D printing these molds to make desk accessories in paper pulp, that's exactly what you do!

  1. Giroid Vase

Looking for things to 3D print and sell or give as gifts? This giroid vase with an eye-catching design is sure to capture that summer spirit, although you'll need to activate vase mode in your slicer to do so.

  1. Precision tweezers

If you can't find your tweezers when you need them, why not make your own? Once you're done printing these precision tweezers, all you have to do is bend the hinges and you're ready to pick up the tricky parts with ease.

  1. Cable Savers

Laptop wires, phone chargers, and other cables tend to fray. Unless, of course, you protect them first by 3D printing these cable savers to protect them.

  1. Bra Strap Converter

Useful things to 3D print don't get much more useful than this bra strap converter. At least half of the population may have no idea what this device is. But those who do will be grateful for its ingenious ability to turn ordinary bra straps into racerback straps in a second.

  1. Pasta bag clip and measuring device

Spaghetti may be delicious, but it's hard to store and even harder to portion. Solve both problems in one by 3D printing this spaghetti bag clamp complete with measuring tool for portions ranging from 80 to 120 grams.

  1. Smart Phone Amplifier

Forget those Bluetooth speakers that drain the battery, one of the best things to do with a 3D printer is a handy smartphone amplifier. In addition to making your smartphone volume loud enough to fill a room, this device also doubles as a smartphone stand.

  1. PSU mounting bracket

Power supplies are huge, heavy, and often get in the way. Luckily, you can 3D print this Mounting bracket to make sure the brick doesn't get in the way under your desk. And, if you know CAD, you can even tailor the design to your specific PSU dimensions.

Useful things to 3D print

If you're looking for useful things to 3D print, this list is full of unconventional yet ingenious gadgets to entertain, excite, and make your life easier. And the best part is that you can find many of these designs for free on Thingiverse!

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