3D printing isn’t just about creating plastic figurines—it’s a powerful tool for problem-solving, design thinking, and bringing wild imaginative concepts to life.
This innovative technology brings out the creativity, enhances problem-solving skills, and provides a hands-on learning experience that can captivate the minds of learners at all levels.
3D printing bridges the gap between digital creativity and physical creation, offering an unprecedented opportunity to learn, experiment, and innovate right from your home or classroom.
This collection features a diverse range of projects that cater to different interests and skill levels, from simple models for beginners to intricate designs that challenge more advanced creators.
These ideas aren’t just about technical skills—they’re about sparking curiosity and demonstrating how digital design can solve real-world problems.
3D Projects to Use at School
1. T-Rex Tape Dispenser
A 3D-printed T-Rex tape dispenser is not only a fun and creative project for students but also a practical one that combines design and functionality.
Learn more: Pin Shape
2. Mess-Free Frog Dissecting
A 3D-printed Mess-Free Frog Dissecting model is an innovative way to teach students anatomy without the need for real frogs or the mess of traditional dissection.
The process involves creating or downloading a detailed 3D model of a frog’s anatomy, which includes removable organs and other parts for an interactive experience.
Learn more: Thingiverse
3. Book Holder
A 3D-printed book holder, designed as a page stopper, is a simple yet highly functional tool for students and readers.
The process involves creating or selecting a compact 3D model that slides in between the pages of a book to keep it open at a specific spot without damaging the spine
Learn more: Printables
4. Desk Bag Hook
A 3D-printed desk bag hook is a practical solution to keep bags organized and off the floor, making it a great project for students.
The process involves designing or downloading a hook model that can easily attach to the edge of a desk, sturdy enough to support the weight of a backpack or purse.
Learn more: Printables
5. Water Cycle
A 3D-printed water cycle model is a visually engaging and interactive way to teach students about Earth’s natural processes.
The project involves designing or downloading models that represent each stage of the water cycle—evaporation, condensation, precipitation, and collection.
Learn more: Tinkercad
6. Marker Set Holder
A 3D-printed marker set holder is a practical and customizable project that helps students keep their study space organized. The design process involves creating or selecting a holder with compartments that can neatly store markers or pens in an upright position, making them easy to access.
Learn more: Printables
7. Reading Bar
A 3D-printed reading bar is a simple yet effective tool designed to help students stay focused while reading. The reading bar can be designed as a thin, flat guide that rests across a page, highlighting one line at a time to improve concentration and prevent losing track of where they are in the text.
Learn more: Printables
8. Measuring Cubes
The cubes can be designed to represent standard kitchen measurements, such as ¼ cup, ½ cup, and 1 cup, with each cube precisely sized for accurate measuring of liquids or dry ingredients.
Learn more: Thingiverse
9. Hurricane Satellite View
The project involves designing or downloading a 3D model that mimics the swirling cloud formations of a hurricane as seen from space, highlighting the eye of the storm and its spiraling arms.
Learn more: Thingiverse
10. Cutaway Earth Model
A 3D-printed cutaway Earth model is an engaging way to help students visualize the layers of our planet. The model can be designed to show cross-sections of the Earth, revealing its core, mantle, and crust, along with any other significant layers like the lithosphere or inner and outer core.
Learn more: Thingiverse
11. Fraction Blocks
These blocks can be designed in varying sizes, representing common fractions such as 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, and so on, with each block proportionally sized to demonstrate how fractions relate to a whole.
Learn more: Printables
12. Mt. Everest
By creating a physical model of such an iconic natural feature, students gain a deeper appreciation for Earth’s geography and develop skills that combine science, design, and engineering.
Learn more: Thingiverse
13. Petite Paint Palette
A 3D-printed petite paint palette is a compact and customizable tool perfect for young artists or students working on small-scale painting projects.
The palette can be designed with multiple small wells for different paint colors, along with a thumb hole or handle for easy grip while painting.
Learn more: Thingiverse
14. Make a Whistle
The design involves creating a simple, compact whistle with a chamber and air passage that allows it to produce a clear, sharp sound when blown.
Learn more: Instructables
15. Historical Artifacts
Creating 3D-printed historical artifacts is a unique way to bring history to life for students and provide a hands-on learning experience. By designing or downloading models of significant artifacts, such as ancient coins, pottery, tools, or relics, students can print and examine these items in detail.
Learn more: Me 3D
16. Find The Match
One engaging 3D printing project for schools is the “Find the Match” game, where students connect animal pictures to their corresponding names using string. The process involves 3D printing animal shapes or plaques with holes at the edges for threading the string.
Learn more: Printables
17. Hyperboloid Pencil Holder
The design uses the hyperboloid shape, a structure formed by straight lines that create a curved surface, offering a visually captivating and functional desk accessory.
Learn more: Thingiverse
18. Math Spinner Toy
The spinner is designed with sections labeled with numbers or math problems, which students can spin to generate random problems to solve. This toy can be customized for various math concepts like multiplication, division, or fractions, making it adaptable to different grade levels.
Learn more: My Mini Factory
19. Teaching Clock
The clock features movable hour and minute hands, allowing students to practice setting different times. Teachers can customize the clock with clear number labels and color-coded hands to make it easier for young learners to understand the relationship between hours and minutes.
Learn more: Printables
20. Plantygon
The hexagon-shaped frames act as individual planters, which can be connected in various patterns to create a modular, vertical garden.
Students can plant small herbs, succulents, or flowers inside each hexagonal compartment, making this a great project for teaching plant biology and the importance of sustainable practices.
Learn more: Cults 3D
21. Pen and Pencil Holder
This project allows students to create customized holders with different compartments, shapes, or even personalized features, encouraging creativity alongside technical skills.
Learn more: Cults 3D
22. Cookie Cutter
Students can use design software to create custom shapes, whether based on animals, geometric patterns, or holiday themes, which are then printed using a 3D printer.
This hands-on activity teaches students the basics of 3D modeling, engineering, and design principles, while offering a fun, real-world reward: baking and enjoying the cookies they’ve created!
Learn more: Thingiverse
23. Book Owls
A 3D-printed “Book Owl” bookmark is a delightful and functional project that combines creativity with practical use.
Shaped like a cute owl, this bookmark can perch at the top of a book, with the owl’s feet holding the reader’s place between the pages.
Learn more: Youmagine
24. Bag Clip Rex
The T-Rex’s jaws act as the clip, providing both a fun dinosaur aesthetic and a useful kitchen tool.
This project teaches students about mechanical design, as they create a working clip with functional gripping tension, while also letting their creativity shine with the dinosaur theme.
Learn more: Thingiverse
25. Human Skull
A 3D-printed human skull model is an excellent educational tool for teaching anatomy and biology. This project allows students to explore the intricate details of the human skull, including bone structures and features, in a hands-on manner.
Learn more: Thingiverse
3D Projects for Your Home
26. Controller Hanger
A 3D-printed controller hanger designed to hang directly on a gaming console is an innovative and space-saving accessory.
This hanger attaches securely to the console, providing a dedicated spot to store the controller when it’s not in use. Its design ensures that the controller is easily accessible and kept safely off surfaces, reducing clutter and potential damage.
Learn more: Thingiverse
27. Sound-Amplifying Monster
Designed as a playful monster figure, this project incorporates a built-in sound amplification feature, such as a funnel or resonator, to boost the volume of a smartphone or tablet’s speakers.
Learn more: Cults 3D
28. A Cup for Toothbrush and Toothpaste
This project combines practicality with a playful design, making brushing teeth a bit more fun. The cup can be printed with compartments: one for the toothbrush and another for the toothpaste, all integrated into a tooth-shaped container.
Learn more: Thingiverse
29. Hanging Vase
Designed to be hung from a wall or ceiling, this vase can hold small plants, succulents, or air plants, adding a touch of greenery to the room while saving counter space.
Learn more: Thingiverse
30. Headphone Stand
This project involves designing a stand that securely holds headphones when they’re not in use, preventing tangles and keeping the workspace organized.
Learn more: Thingiverse
31. USB Cable Holder
This holder can be designed to accommodate various cable sizes and types, preventing tangling and damage. Students can create custom holders with compartments for different cables, incorporating features like cable clips or slots.
Learn more: Thingiverse
32. Assistive Bottle Opener
The design can feature ergonomic handles, leverage mechanisms, or unique gripping surfaces to enhance usability.
Learn more: We Are Print Lab
33. Blueberry Bowl
The bowl’s exterior can mimic the texture and color of a blueberry, while the interior provides a practical space for holding fruits, snacks, or other small items.
Learn more: Thingiverse
34. Rope Hook
The hook can be customized to different sizes and shapes depending on the intended use, whether for securing outdoor gear, organizing workshop tools, or hanging your wet laundry.
Learn more: Printables
35. Turbine Faucet Watersaver
The design incorporates a turbine-like mechanism that mixes air with the water flow, creating a more aerated stream that can reduce water consumption without sacrificing performance.
Learn more: Thingiverse
36. Toothpaste Squeezer
A 3D-printed toothpaste squeezer is a practical and handy project designed to help users get the most out of their toothpaste tubes. The squeezer works by applying pressure to the tube, pushing out every last bit of toothpaste, and can be designed to fit various tube sizes and shapes.
Learn more: Thingiverse
37. Chip Clip
The clip can be designed with a spring-like mechanism or hinge to provide a strong grip, ensuring that bags stay tightly closed. Students can customize the size, shape, and even add fun details like themed designs or labels to make the clip unique.
Learn more: Thingiverse
38. Cheeze Door-Stop
Shaped like a wedge of cheese, complete with holes or “cheese eyes,” this door-stop is both fun and practical. The angled design allows it to securely hold doors open, making it useful in homes, classrooms, or offices.
Learn more: Thingiverse
39. Chopstick Trainer
The trainer connects the chopsticks at the top, providing support and guiding the movement to make it easier to grip and control food.
Students can customize the design by adjusting the shape, size, or even adding fun elements like animal shapes or patterns to the connector for a more engaging experience.
Learn more: Thingiverse
40. Funny Toothpick Dispenser
The design allows the toothpicks to be stored inside the figure, with each toothpick being dispensed as though the character is triumphantly presenting it.
Learn more: Thingiverse
41. Adjustable Wrench
The wrench features a sliding mechanism that allows the jaw size to be adjusted, making it versatile for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts of various sizes.
Learn more: Instructables
42. Scoop
A 3D-printed scoop is a simple yet highly practical project that can be used for a variety of purposes, such as measuring ingredients in the kitchen, scooping pet food, or handling gardening materials.
Learn more: Maker World
43. Reusable Zip Tie
A 3D-printed reusable zip tie is an eco-friendly and practical project designed to help students create a versatile tool for organizing cables, bundling items, or securing objects.
Unlike traditional zip ties, this version features a simple locking mechanism that can be undone and reused, reducing waste.
Learn more: Printables
44. Trash Bag Holder
A 3D-printed unused trash bag holder is a clever and convenient project designed to store extra trash bags in an organized way, keeping them easily accessible. The holder can be mounted inside a cabinet, on the side of a trash can, or even wall-mounted.
Learn more: Printables
More Innovative and Useful 3D Projects!
45. Brick Stackable Desk Boxes
These boxes can be customized to stack securely on top of each other, just like LEGO bricks, allowing students to build their own storage system for small items such as pens, paperclips, or sticky notes.
Learn more: Thingiverse
46. Snap-Together Marble Maze
The maze is composed of individual track pieces that snap together, allowing students to design and build their own custom marble runs. These modular pieces can include straight paths, curves, ramps, and tunnels, offering endless possibilities for creating intricate mazes.
Learn more: Printables
47. Microgreens Grower
A 3D-printed microgreens grower is an innovative project that allows students to create a compact, customizable system for growing nutrient-rich microgreens indoors.
Learn more: Thingiverse
48. Cap Clip
A 3D-printed hat clip is a practical and stylish accessory designed to securely attach items to a hat, such as badges, decorations, or even small tools.
The clip can be customized to fit various types of hats, such as baseball caps or beanies, and can feature different designs or mechanisms to ensure a snug fit.
Learn more: Maker World
49. 3D QR-Code Generator
This project involves designing and printing QR codes in a three-dimensional format, where the code’s data can be encoded into a raised or recessed pattern that can be scanned by QR code readers.
Learn more: Printables
50. Silent Ping Pong Paddle
The paddle features a unique design that incorporates sound-dampening materials or structural modifications to minimize the characteristic “ping” sound of the ball hitting the paddle.
Learn more: Cults 3D
51. Ice Pack Holder for Fan
The holder attaches to a fan, allowing ice packs to be placed in front of the fan’s airflow, which helps to cool the air more effectively.
This setup can provide a simple, energy-efficient way to lower temperatures in a room.
Learn more: Thingiverse
52. Universal Stackable Crates
These crates can be customized in various sizes and shapes to fit different needs, such as organizing tools, storing toys, or managing office supplies.
The stackable design allows multiple crates to be securely stacked on top of each other, optimizing vertical space and making storage more efficient.
Learn more: Thingiverse
53. Adjustable Height Support
A 3D-printed adjustable height support is a practical and versatile project designed to provide customizable support for various applications, such as desk setups, seating arrangements, or equipment stands.
This support can be adjusted to different heights, allowing users to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences.
Learn more: Printables
54. Post-It Pro Organizer
This organizer can include compartments or slots for different sizes and colors of notes, as well as sections for pens or markers.
The design can be tailored to fit specific desk spaces, allowing users to create a setup that suits their workflow and preferences.
Learn more: Thingiverse
55. Bird Feeder
Designed to attract and nourish local birds, the feeder can feature various styles, such as hanging, mounted, or pole-mounted, and can be customized with different shapes, colors, and features like perches or feeding trays.
Learn more: Maker World
56. Paper Alphabet Embosser
The embosser features a mechanism where custom-designed letter stamps or plates are pressed into paper to create raised impressions.
Learn more: Printables
57. Moveable Snowman
The snowman can be designed with movable parts, such as a rotating head, arms that can be posed, or even a body that can be repositioned, creating a playful and engaging decoration for the winter season.
Learn more: Printables
58. Mini Desktop Trash Can
A 3D-printed mini desktop trash can is a practical and stylish addition to any workspace, designed to help keep small scraps and waste organized and contained. This compact trash can be customized to fit various desk sizes and styles, featuring a functional lid, a sturdy base, and perhaps even a removable inner liner for easy cleaning.
Learn more: Printables
59. Dice Tower Castle Stairs
This dice tower features a castle-themed design, complete with intricate staircases, battlements, and turrets.
The dice are rolled from the top of the tower, navigating down through the castle’s stairs and obstacles before landing in a tray at the bottom, which ensures a random and fair roll.
Learn more: Printables
60. Mini Catapult
This small-scale catapult can be designed to launch lightweight objects, such as small balls or beanbags, and can be customized with various features to enhance its functionality and accuracy
Learn more: Thingiverse
61. Smartphone Stand
This project involves creating a stand that securely holds a smartphone while showcasing a playful and appealing design. The stand can be designed with the animal’s body forming the base and support, with the phone resting comfortably in a slot or cradle integrated into the design.
Learn more: Pin Shape
62. Micro SD Card and Adapter Storage Box
A 3D-printed micro SD card and adapter storage box is a practical and organized solution for keeping small electronic components tidy and easily accessible.
This box can be designed with dedicated compartments to securely hold multiple micro SD cards and their adapters, preventing loss or damage.
Learn more: Thingiverse
63. Zipper Pulls
3D-printed zipper pulls designed as cacti add a fun and personalized touch to any bag, jacket, or accessory. These zipper pulls feature a cactus design that is both whimsical and functional, making it easy to grasp and use while adding a bit of charm to everyday items.
Learn more: Instructables
64. 3D-Printed Bungalow
A 3D-printed bungalow-shaped can be a mailbox is a charming and functional project that combines creative design with practical use. This project can be modeled to resemble a small, cozy bungalow, complete with features such as a roof, windows, and a door.
Learn more: Pinterest/Gizmodo
65. Name Keychain
A 3D-printed name keychain is a simple yet personalized project that allows individuals to carry their names or initials in style. Designed to be both functional and decorative, this keychain can be customized with various fonts, colors, and shapes to suit personal preferences.
Learn more: Pinterest/Digital Adventures
66. Pen Sleeves
These sleeves are designed to fit snugly around pens, offering protection from scratches and wear while adding a touch of personalization.
Students can design the sleeves to include their names or initials, using various fonts and styles to match personal preferences.
Learn more: Pinterest/Withoutacareintheworld
67. Stamps
These stamps can be designed with custom patterns, logos, or text to create unique impressions on paper, fabric, or other materials.
Learn more: Thingiverse
68. Post It Holder
This holder can be designed to fit standard Post-It note pads, with options for additional features such as compartments for pens or markers and a slot for easy note removal.
Learn more: Pinterest/3D Models
69. Happy Paper Clips
These paper clips are designed with cheerful, playful shapes or motifs, such as smiley faces, cute animals, or other happy symbols.
Learn more: Thingiverse
70. Dice
Unlike standard dice, 3D-printed dice can be designed with various shapes, sizes, and customizations, from classic six-sided dice to polyhedral dice used in role-playing games.
Learn more: My Mini Factory
71. Collapsible Scratcher
Ideal for pets or personal use, this scratcher features a collapsible design that allows it to be easily folded or retracted, making it convenient to store in small spaces.
Learn more: Printables
72. Earbud Case
A 3D-printed earbud case is a practical and stylish accessory designed to keep earbuds organized, protected, and easily accessible.
This case can be customized to fit various earbud sizes and styles, featuring a secure closure to prevent tangling and damage
Learn more: Thingiverse
73. Low Poly Ring
This 3D-printed low-poly ring is a stylish and modern accessory that features a geometric, angular design with a low-polygon aesthetic. This design approach uses simple, flat surfaces and straight lines to create a distinctive look, making the ring both unique and visually striking
Learn more: Thingiverse
74. Balloon Powered Car
A 3D-printed balloon-powered car is a fun and educational project that combines principles of physics with hands-on engineering.
This car uses the propulsion force of a balloon to move, making it an excellent demonstration of basic aerodynamic and mechanical concepts.
Learn more: Tinker Cad
75. Shark Comb
The comb features a shark-shaped handle and teeth, adding a touch of whimsy to a practical everyday tool.
Learn more: Youmagine
76. Ocarina
The ocarina is a type of wind instrument with a unique, often rounded shape, and it can be crafted with various designs and sizes to produce different musical tones.
Learn more: Thingiverse
77. Wrench
This 3D-printed wrench is a versatile and practical tool designed for gripping and turning various fasteners. This project allows students to explore mechanical design and practical applications while creating a useful item that can be customized to fit different needs.
Learn more: Free 3D
78. Bicycle Phone Holder
This 3D-printed bicycle phone holder is a practical and innovative accessory designed to securely attach a smartphone to a bicycle, allowing riders to access navigation, calls, or other apps while cycling.
Learn more: You Imagine
79. Spiderman Yoyo
Creating a 3D-printed Spider-Man yoyo is an exciting project that combines the thrill of a classic toy with the innovative potential of 3D printing.
To start, students design a yoyo that features Spider-Man-themed elements, such as web patterns, Spider-Man’s iconic mask, or other superhero motifs.
Learn more: Thingiverse
80. Spinning Top
Designing a 3D-printed spinning top is a fascinating project that merges precision engineering with playful creativity.
The process begins with creating a detailed 3D model of the spinning top, which can feature various shapes, patterns, and balance mechanisms.
Learn more: Tinker CAD
81. Egyptian Cartouche
Creating a 3D-printed Egyptian cartouche is an engaging project that blends historical art with modern technology.
The process begins with designing a cartouche a unique oval or rectangular shape with hieroglyphs, traditionally used in ancient Egypt to encircle royal names or important inscriptions.
Learn more: Create Education
82. Tape Measure Spool
Designing a 3D-printed tape measure spool is a practical project that offers students a chance to explore both mechanical design and functional engineering.
Learn more: Thingiverse