90 Best 3D Printing Ideas to Try in 2025

1. Dragsters Powered by Balloons

Get your students engaged in science by hosting a balloon-powered dragster competition that teaches the principles of force, motion, and Newton’s third law. This lesson encourages design thinking as students figure out the best size, shape, and weight for their car and wheels to travel the farthest in a straight line.

Learn more: Create a Balloon-Powered Car

2. Fraction Blocks

Say goodbye to the struggles of teaching fractions! These printable math manipulatives are a game-changer for helping students grasp and visualize fractions with ease. By using your own 3D printer, you can conveniently print out as many manipulatives as you need for the classroom.

Learn more: Fraction Blocks, Teachable Classroom Math Manipulative Model!

3. Mini Catapult

If you’re looking for fun 3D printing ideas to tackle boredom when it strikes, consider creating a mini catapult. Once fully finished, give it a try and see what kind of mischief you can cause!

Learn more: Micro Catapult by Luke Tansell

4. Infinite Fidget Cube

Fidget toys have gained popularity for providing comfort and aiding concentration for kids with sensory needs in the classroom. These 3D-printed fidget toys are a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and effective solution to help students focus.

Learn more: Easy Infinite Cube Fidget

5. T-Rex Tape Dispenser

Why settle for an ordinary tape dispenser when you can make your own T-rex skull tape dispenser? We love 3D printing ideas that include fun and creative ways to incorporate dinosaurs into your lessons.

Learn more: T-Rex Tape Dispenser

6. Ocarina

Attention music and band teachers! If you’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to expensive musical instruments, look no further than this 3D-printed ocarina. Rest assured that it’s not only affordable but also musically accurate—perfect for your classroom needs.

Learn more: 12 Hole Ocarina by RobSoundtrack

7. No-Mess Frog Dissection

Impress your students with this innovative 3D-printed frog dissection kit. Say goodbye to the mess and unpleasantness that comes with traditional dissection methods.

Learn more: The Frog Dissection Kit by MakerBot

8. Poseable Snowman Fidget

Why settle for a standard fidget spinner when you can have a poseable seasonal snowman fidget toy? This creative alternative is sure to entertain and calm your students.

Learn more: Articulated Snowman Fidget by 3D Printy

10. Retro Alarm Clock Stand

To add a vintage touch to your contemporary timepiece, simply gather some 3D-printed pieces, a Google Home Mini, and a few other components to assemble this stand.

Learn more: Retro Alarm Clock Stand by Yelt

11. Braille Models

Introduce students to the written language of braille and 3D modeling concepts through 3D printing ideas. Use this technology to create custom braille models, from basic blocks to braille signage for different areas of your school.

Learn more: Creating Braille Blocks

12. Spinning Tops

Get students involved in both toy design and concepts of force and motion by guiding them in creating spinning tops. After 3D-printing their designs, students can compete to see whose spinning top can spin the longest and then analyze the results to make improvements to their designs.

Learn more: Design and Print a Spinning Top

13. Book Holder

Make reading and holding a book with one hand a breeze with this nifty tool. Bookworms who enjoy reading for long periods will especially appreciate the convenience it provides.

Learn more: Reading Aid

14. Assistive Bottle Openers

Students use Tinkercad to create assistive devices like bottle openers for individuals with arthritis or a weak grip. Through the design process, they’ll also learn about simple machines and the principles of levers. This project is a practical way to apply engineering principles while addressing a real-world problem.

Learn more: Assistive Bottle Openers

15. Historical Monuments

Students in a classroom selected influential historical figures without memorials and designed monuments using 3D software and printers. This project allowed them to learn and teach about their chosen figure’s accomplishments in a unique way.

Learn more: 3D Printing in History Class

16. Reading Bar

This uncomplicated 3D-printed tool is a lifesaver for classroom settings with struggling readers or students with ADHD. The text isolator aids in helping students concentrate on one line of text at a time while reading, making it an effective tool for improving reading comprehension.

Learn more: Reading Bar (Flat) by Makers Making Change

17. Hyperboloid Pencil Holder

This pencil holder design might surprise you with its ability to liven up an otherwise mundane object. The creator of this model promises that it’s as easy as “print, clip in pencils, admire …”!

Learn more: Hyperboloid Pencil Holder by MakeALot

18. Marble Maze

Looking for an engaging activity to keep students of all ages entertained for hours? Check out this 3D-printed marble maze! It’s not only a fantastic gift idea from teachers but also a fun present for students to give to others in their lives.

Learn more: Snap-Together Marble Maze by Ericman314

19. Dice

Instead of printing a standard cube, try printing dice. This simple shape is easy to print, and all students need to do is add the dots. Not only can they use it when playing board games, but they’ll also have the satisfaction of telling everyone they made it themselves. Pretty cool, right?

Learn more: Setting Up Your 3D Printed Dice Files for Printing

21. Paint Palette

Check out these amazing 3D-printed palettes that fit snugly on your thumb! They’re perfect for wiping down your brush and mixing small amounts of color. Your students are bound to adore them!

Learn more: Petite Paint Palette by MerganMcFergan

22. Cali Cat

The Cali Cat is a popular 3D print option because of its fun and cute nature, often used for calibration and as a benchmark model for beginners. It is also kept as a souvenir by many students as they learn 3D printing ideas.

Learn more: Cali Cat – The Calibration Cat by Dezign

23. Checklist Stencil

Let’s tackle planning your day with ease. This printable planner stencil will simplify your to-do list and help you stay on track. With a quick glance, you can confirm which tasks haven’t been checked off yet and tackle them before they pile up.

Learn more: List Stencil by Kai Nightmode

24. Whistles

Before designing a whistle, teach students about sound waves, frequency, and amplitude. This project involves an iterative process where students can analyze and evaluate their creations to improve on their designs.

Learn more: Make a Whistle With Tinkercad by Neotekna 

25. Key Holder

Say no to the hassle of carrying around keys! Your students will appreciate the opportunity to create a personalized key holder to keep their house keys, car keys, and any other keys organized and easily accessible.

Learn more: Proteus Key Holder by ProteanMan

26. Doorstop

3D-printed doorstops are typically triangular in shape, but they serve an essential function in preventing doors from slamming due to drafts. For a more intricate design, you can experiment with engraving a word onto the stopper using 3D printing software. The possibilities are endless!

Learn more: Cheeze Door-Stop by Terenceang

27. Whiteboard Marker Holder

Say goodbye to a cluttered whiteboard area with this convenient marker holder. Capable of holding four Expo markers along with a brush and spray, this organizer is the perfect addition to your classroom setup.

Learn more: Expo Dry-Erase Marker Set Holder by Pdogman

28. Drink Coaster

Crafting your own drink coaster is a simple process that even students can accomplish. With a little practice, anyone can become a pro at designing custom drink coasters.

Learn more: The Ultimate Hexagon Coaster Set by SRunderkamp

29. Pen Cases

Teach students to create unique pen cases using intersecting shapes like pebbles in Tinkercad. In this lesson, they’ll also learn about mathematical linear sequences to determine the number of pebbles needed for a Bic Cristal biro cartridge to fit perfectly in the center.

Learn more: Design a 3D Printable Pen – Lesson Plan

30. USB Cable Holder

In today’s world, USB cables reign supreme. If you’re looking to save time and energy by avoiding the tedious task of untangling cords later, this printable organizer is just what you need to keep your space clutter-free.

Learn more: USB Cable Holder by Ajitam

31. Custom Jewelry

For students who are new to 3D printing ideas, a low poly ring is an excellent starting point. These rings are small and require minimal material, making them quick to print. Despite their simplicity, the design is still attractive and eye-catching.

Learn more: Low-Poly Ring by Levenement71

32. Human Organs to Scale

My students were deeply affected by this activity—the experience of holding a heart or skull in their own hands really made them contemplate and reflect.

Learn more: Human Skull by MakerBot

33. Customizable Bubble Wands

Bring some extra fun to your kindergarten or primary grade class with this delightful custom bubble wand project. Bubbles are always a hit among kids, and this personalized wand will make for an excellent souvenir that children can take home and enjoy over and over again.

Learn more: Bubble Wand With Nametag by Preealpha

34. Paintable Earth Model

Get your hands on a file for a paintable 3D-printed model of the Earth’s cutaway. This model displays the crust, mantle, outer core, and inner core in intricate detail.

Learn more: Cutaway Earth Model by Kseluga

35. Hanging Planter

Add a touch of beauty to your classroom with this lovely hanging planter. It’s perfect for students to take home and enjoy or even to customize as a thoughtful Mother’s Day gift.

Learn more: Hanging Vase by ZSAviation

36. Egyptian Cartouche

Have students design their own cartouches as a fun way to learn about Egyptian hieroglyphics and monuments. Using a hieroglyphic alphabet, they can personalize their obelisk model by adding their name.

Learn more: Tinkercad Egyptian Cartouche Project

37. Phone Holder for Your Bike

This hands-free design allows you to access GPS maps with ease and receive vocal assistance to guide you along the way. Let’s make learning and exploring stress-free! The design can even easily be modified to fit any type of phone you have.

Learn more: Bicycle Phone Holder by Mowi

38. Stamps

The options for 3D-printed stamps are endless, giving students the freedom to get as creative as they want. With numerous stamp forms to choose from and the ability to add letters, shapes, inspiring words, and other designs, there’s no limit to what can go on the actual stamp. Let your imagination run wild!

Learn more: Stamps by lkg218

39. Toothpick Dispenser

Your students are sure to adore this comical and charming toothpick dispenser. And it’s useful too!

Learn more: Funny Toothpick Dispenser by Shusy

40. Toothbrush Holder

Looking for a fun way to encourage better dental hygiene habits in your students? Look no further than these 3D-printed toothbrush holders! Shaped like a literal tooth, they’re sure to be a hit and make brushing just a bit more enjoyable.

Learn more: A Cup for Toothbrush and Toothpaste by ericman93

41. Classroom Fiddles

Interested in 3D printing ideas for a classroom instrument? OpenFab PDX offers several options for you to choose from, giving you the opportunity to print your very own four-string fiddle.

Learn more: Modular Fiddle Instructions

42. A Yo-Yo

To give it a personalized touch, consider adding cool engravings to the sides of this yo-yo. Once complete, all you need is a good string and it’s ready to use.

Learn more: Spiderman Yo-Yo by lolo_aguirre

43. Hurricane Satellite View

Visualize the incredible size of a hurricane with a 3D-printed satellite view model. This model showcases the eye and swirling clouds in stunning detail, helping students better understand the phenomenon. Plus, it includes outlines of land to provide a sense of scale.

Learn more: Hurricane Katrina by Conorokane

44. Gaming Controller Clips

This sleek controller holder is not only practical, it’s a smart solution for those who need to maximize space in their living area. Whether you’re setting up your PS5 or Xbox Series X, this accessory adds a stylish touch.

Learn more: PS5 / Xbox Series X Controller Hanger by sa_shadow

46. Smartphone Stand

Take a look at this adorable turtle and his animal friends, which double as a convenient smartphone stand and key chain. With this handy gadget, your students can keep their phone upright while on the go and always have their cute companion with them.

Learn more: Tortoise Key Chain/Smartphone Stand by Sonia Verdu

47. Cookie Cutters

3D printing offers the opportunity to create cookie cutters in a variety of shapes. Because they are hollow, students can learn to 3D-print with minimal filament usage.

Learn more: 3D Christmas Cookie Cutters by asbeg

48. Bridge Building

Encourage students to explore the world of bridges by designing their own or creating 3D-printed models. From suspension and beam to arch, cantilever, truss, and cable-stayed, there are many types of bridges to consider. This project can be linked to specific cities and rivers where these bridges can be found.

49. Classroom Medals

Honor your students’ accomplishments with these personalized gold medals. These medals are an ideal award for recognizing outstanding achievements throughout the school year, such as Student of the Month or various successes.

Learn more: Gold Medal Name Plate/Olympic Medal by Murdoc

50. Animal Bookmarks

Looking for a cute and functional bookmark to help your students keep track of their reading in class? These adorable panda bookmarks are the perfect addition to any novel study or reading activity.

Learn more: Panda Bookmark by Ludmi_R

52. Teaching Time

With the ubiquity of digital clocks these days, even my own students struggle to read analog clocks. Luckily, this 3D-printed analog clock model offers a solution for kids learning to tell time on analog clocks.

Learn more: Teaching Clock (Tell the Time) by phi.gl

53. Cable Organizer and Holder

Students can no longer use the excuse of uncharged technology in class, thanks to this clever desktop cable organizer. Not only does it ensure that cords remain tangle-free and organized, but it can be easily attached to desks at home or in the classroom, preventing cords from getting lost in the abyss.

Learn more: 6-Cable Organizer and Holder

54. 3D Bar Charts

Make presenting demographic information more exciting and readable with 3D bar charts. Whether it’s population, life expectancy, or other data, these charts provide a unique way to teach students to display information. Consider having students use demographic or survey information from your school to create customized 3D bar charts that showcase school-specific data.

Learn more: Tactile Graphs for Early Grades by Nicholas Builds

55. Desk-Mounted Headphone Holder

As more students incorporate technology into their classroom studies, it’s now commonplace to see headphones at every desk. Keep your classroom organized with this practical desk-mounted headphone holder, which provides a designated spot for students to store their headphones conveniently.

Learn more: Desk-Mount Headphone Holder

56. Earbud Holder

Tired of constantly misplacing or untangling your earphones? This practical 3D-printed earbud holder is a handy tool that keeps your earphones organized and tangle-free.

Learn more: Earbud Holder by Sneakypoo

57. Wall Outlet Shelf

Your students will definitely appreciate being able to create wall outlet shelves. These shelves provide a safe and stable spot for their phones to rest while charging.

Learn more: Wall Outlet Shelf by WallTosh

58. Snack Bag Clip

Bag clips are a must-have in any classroom, especially with students who are always hungry. With these convenient clips, students can easily seal their snacks and avoid spills or messes in their backpacks or on the floor.

Learn more: Bag Clip Rex by Tquacken

59. Interlocking Equation Blocks

Enhance your students’ math skills with these versatile math manipulatives that can be used to create equations. These unique blocks are perfect for honing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division skills.

Learn more: Educational Interlocking Number Blocks Toy

60. Math Fact Spinner

These 3D-printed spinners can be customized to include different mathematical operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. As students spin the spinner, they can work on solving the math problems that it lands on.

Learn more: 3D Printable Math Spinner Toy by Paulo Ricardo Blank

61. Desk or Table Bag Holder

Here’s another straightforward yet highly practical classroom design. These bag hooks are perfect for keeping student backpacks off the floor and in order. Plus, they can come in handy for hanging purses or bags at restaurants or other public places.

Learn more: Desk Bag Hook by PieSupplies

62. Sound-Amplifying Monster

Looking for a quick and easy way to amplify the sound from your smartphone? Meet this little monster! This handy gadget utilizes simple audio engineering to boost the volume of your device. Perfect for when you or your students need to turn up the volume.

Learn more: Groovi Monster by 3DShook

63. 3D Water Cycle

A 3D printer can be used to create an educational and engaging model of the water cycle, showcasing each step of the process in intricate detail. This interactive tool helps students understand the importance of sustainability and water conservation, making science education more exciting and hands-on.

Learn more: 3D Water Cycle by Mr. Martens

65. Measuring Cube

3D printing ideas that serve practical purposes are some of our favorites! Take your cooking skills to the next level with this incredible measuring cube that can measure various increments. The best part? You won’t have to wash multiple small spoons anymore.

Learn more: Measuring Cubes by Jevus

66. Find the Match

Add a creative touch to classroom learning with this engaging matching game, made possible by 3D printing ideas. By using the provided templates, you can customize matching quizzes that are both fun and educational for your students to complete.

Learn more: Find Pairs by Jobla

67. Ancient Ruins

Create your own replicas of ancient wonders like the Pyramids of Giza, Chichén Itzá, the Colosseum in Rome, the Taj Mahal, and the Statue of Liberty with 3D printing. The possibilities are endless!

Learn more: Ancient Ruins

68. Custom Classroom Passes

Stay organized with these handy 3D-printed passes for tracking restroom breaks, library visits, and trips to the hall.

Learn more: Pernille Ripp’s Classroom Passes

69. Multicolor Cell Model

Introducing a multicolor 3D model of a cell is an excellent way to make science come alive for students who are studying the different parts of a cell. Not only does it engage their curiosity and imagination, they’ll learn about 3D printing in the process.

Learn more: Multi-Color Cell Model by Mosaic Manufacturing

70. Flexible Chrome T-Rex

We all love the T-Rex game on Chrome that we can play when the Wi-Fi is out. Now, imagine having your own flexible version of this lovable character that can be used as a fidget or as a fun toy.

Learn more: Flexi Chrome T-Rex by JamesThePrinter

71. Small Parts Organizer

This pint-size organizer can help keep even the tiniest of screws and other objects in their place. It could even be used for those pesky little LEGO parts like Minifigure hands!

Learn more: Must-Have Small Parts Organizer

72. Bookends

We love books here at We Are Teachers so you can bet this is one of our favorite 3D printing ideas. Keep all those beloved books neat and tidy on your shelves with this simple but effective bookend!

Learn more: 3D Printing Optimized Bookend

73. A Sweet Key Chain

This simple project would make a great gift for anyone that loves 3D printing. You can keep it for yourself, too, since if you’re making this key chain, odds are you’re a big 3D printing fan!

Learn more: 3D Printing Key Chain by Matt_2024

74. 3D Printed Bracelet

This is another sweet idea for a gift. If you run a class or a camp on 3D printing, you could even give this out to all of the enrollees. The moon-like texture really adds an interesting detail!

Learn more: Moon Bracelet by Danowall

75. A Lampshade

Let’s shine a little light on this adorable lampshade! This project will take approximately four hours to complete, and we think the time spent is well worth it.

Learn more: 3D Printed Lampshade by Jeroen3

76. Squishy Turtle Pal

Are these not the most adorable little turtle pals? We especially love that the little legs bounce and the heads can disappear into the shell. Pick your favorite style and get creating a new desk buddy or good-luck charm.

Learn more: Squishy Turtle by jakejake

77. Spool Holder

The designer of this spool holder explains that while three different sizes are available, they aren’t necessary. There is an option for a universal spool holder that just won’t look as polished, though it will fit nearly any spool.

Learn more: Universal Spool Holder by jjpowelly

78. Shower Head

This shower head is intended to fit onto a standard 1/2-inch threaded shower pipe. We especially love 3D printing ideas that have a practical purpose, and this one does just that. The best part? You get to see your handiwork every day while getting clean!

Learn more: Shower Head MK1 by Mr_MegaTronic

79. Blossoming Lamp

This unique project uses captured joints where moving parts are printed together to eliminate the need for assembly. The 14 interlocking pieces work to open and close the flowers around the lamp, adding or reducing the light emitted. Everyone will certainly want to know where you got this lamp!

Learn more: Blossoming Lamp by emmett

81. Backpack Hanger

This is the perfect 3D printer idea to use either at home by the door or in the classroom. Bonus: If a kid prints this themselves, they might be more likely to actually hang their backpack up instead of throwing it on the floor!

Learn more: Best Backpack or Bag Hanger by Brycemar

82. Seedling Planter

Some 3D printing ideas, like this one, can also be used for other science lessons. Print this seedling planter that also contains a watering system. Start your seeds in this 3D-printed item and simply pour water into the side to nourish all of them at once!

Learn more: Quick-Pot/Seeding Planter by Bastienator

83. Measuring Tape Spool

This nifty little idea allows you to keep your measuring tape organized and also allows for easy winding. This is especially great for a person who loves to sew!

Learn more: Fabric Measuring Tape Spool by ktgl

84. Funko Pop Display

Do you have a collection of Funko Pop figures, or maybe you know someone that does? Make this hexagonal-shaped display that can hold as few or as many of your favorite Funko figures as you like. Once done, you can display your collection brilliantly!

Learn more: Pop! Funko Wall Hex Display V2 by Luluanaki

85. Sink Strainer

This is such a simple but useful 3D printed object. We love the practicality of a strainer that sits neatly on a sink but doesn’t take up too much space.

Learn more: Sink Strainer by KalinZeglarz

86. Vacuum Attachments

Have a vacuum you love, but you just can’t seem to find the right size attachment to clean those pesky hard-to-reach places? Fear no more with these oh-so-inventive hose attachments that you can print yourself!

Learn more: Various Adapters for Vacuum Hose by DemoFreak

87. Little Chickies

Want to refresh your key chain for spring? 3D printing ideas that are as adorable as they are practical? Yes, please!

Learn more: Little Chick Key Chain by UniQrint

88. Sewing Button

Did your coat lose a button, but you can’t find the right one to replace it? Then why not make your own? This is an easy introduction to 3D printing.

Learn more: Sewing Buttons by Rapolasp

89. Spiral Pyramid Fidget

Who doesn’t love a good fidget toy? There are many 3D printing ideas out there for those of us that can’t sit still, but this one is a favorite!

Learn more: Spiral Passthrough Fidget by Neilhaileydesign