3D Printing Ideas for Beginners: Fun, Easy, and Affordable Projects

If you’re just stepping into the world of 3D printing, finding the right projects to start with can make all the difference.

Beginners need projects that are fun, low-cost, and straightforward, with minimal supports and easy post-processing. Here, we’ve rounded up some fantastic 3D printing beginner projects that are either free or budget-friendly.

Whether you’re looking for decorative items, miniatures, or functional prints, these picks will get you started on the right foot.

Let’s jump in with five beginner-friendly 3D printing projects!

1. Lattice Benchy

Price: Free, Designer: DaveMakesStuff

3D-printed Lattice Benchy boat model by DaveMakesStuff, ideal for testing 3D printing beginner projects, featuring intricate lattice design.

The Lattice Benchy is a creative spin on the classic Benchy model, featuring a unique lattice pattern that makes it visually interesting. This iconic model is perfect for beginners as it’s designed to test your printer’s capabilities, from overhangs to bridging. It’s an ideal print for those who want to see what their printer can handle without diving into complex settings.

2. Pumpkin Lamp

Price: Free Designer: arxeukx

3D-printed Halloween-themed pumpkin lamp with carved face, designed by arxeukx, a 3D printing idea for beginners and festive decoration.

For a festive touch, the Pumpkin Lamp is an easy, seasonal print that doesn’t demand too much setup. This free model will add a Halloween vibe to any room. With its simple design, it’s beginner-friendly and an excellent way to bring a touch of spooky fun to your 3D printing experience.

Explore more Halloween 3D prints with a full list of ideas to set the holiday mood.

3. Tiny Green Mall Wizard

Price: Free Designer: Arcanum Workshop

3D-printed Tiny Green Mall Wizard figure by Arcanum Workshop, a simple beginner 3D printing project for miniature wizard figurines.

If you’re looking for a fun, magical model, this Tiny Green Mall Wizard is perfect. Designed as a small-scale wizard figure (32mm), it’s a simple yet satisfying project that works well for beginners interested in miniature printing. Its compact size means it’s quick to print and uses minimal filament, making it a low-commitment project for those just starting out.

Interested in more fantasy-inspired designs? Check out some awesome cosplay 3D prints from us.

4. Goomy (ヌメラ)

Price: $1.99 Designer: PikArtChi

3D-printed Goomy Pokémon character model by PikArtChi, a 3D printing beginner project with a smooth, rounded design.

Pokémon fans, this one’s for you! Goomy is an adorable character that’s easy to print with a smooth, rounded shape, making it beginner-friendly. This low-cost model is perfect for anyone who loves Pokémon and wants to practice 3D printing something they can paint or display as a collectible.

For those interested in practical projects, take a look at useful 3D prints for your home for more ideas.

5. Cute Orange Crab Flexi

Price: $3.00 Designer: Whale 3D Studio

3D-printed Cute Orange Crab Flexi model by Whale 3D Studio, flexible and vibrant beginner 3D printing idea with movable joints.

This Cute Orange Crab Flexi model brings a touch of playfulness to your 3D printing. With flexible joints that allow movement, this print-in-place design doesn’t require assembly, making it a fun and practical project for beginners. The crab’s flexibility and adorable look make it a favorite among those just starting out in 3D printing.

6. Torture Spider, 3D-printer torture test – overhangs-cooling-retraction

Price: Free, Designer: Criticalprint3d

3D-printed Torture Spider model by Criticalprint3d, designed as a 3D printing beginner project to test printer capabilities.

The Torture Spider isn’t as scary as it sounds! This model is actually a great way to test the limits of your 3D printer’s capabilities, from overhangs to retraction settings. Perfect for beginners who want to experiment and learn about their machine, this print is fun to create and doesn’t require any cost. It’s a functional, hands-on way to understand how different settings affect your print quality.

7. Pokémon Squirtle Saxophone

Price: $3.00 Designer: Whale 3D Studio

3D-printed Squirtle with saxophone model by Whale 3D Studio, a fun 3D printing project for beginners featuring Pokémon Squirtle.

Here’s a quirky and fun project for Pokémon lovers: Squirtle with a Saxophone. This model combines nostalgia with humor, making it a memorable addition to any beginner’s collection. It’s a simple model that doesn’t require intense setup, and for a small price, it’s an easy way to get some personality in your prints. This one is especially great for practicing color painting if you’re up for adding a little flair to your prints.

8. Pangolin Bracelet

Price: $4.90 Designer: Amao Chan

3D-printed Pangolin Bracelet by Amazon Chan, a flexible and wearable 3D printing idea for beginners with pangolin scale design.

The Pangolin Bracelet is a flexible, wearable model that’s both stylish and functional. This print demonstrates how versatile 3D printing can be, and it’s perfect for beginners looking to try something wearable. With its unique design that mimics a pangolin’s scales, this model is as eye-catching as it is innovative. For under $5, it’s a practical project that combines creativity with function, helping you explore new possibilities in 3D printing.

9. Phrozen Test Rook

Price: Free; Designer: Phrozen

3D-printed Phrozen Test Rook model, a detailed chess piece for testing intricate details, ideal for 3D printing beginners.

A classic among 3D printing beginner projects, the Phrozen Test Rook is a great print for learning about fine details and print quality. This model helps you understand intricate elements like inner details and spiral structures. With zero cost, it’s a practical tool for beginners who want to learn more about their printer’s resolution and accuracy while creating a cool, chess-inspired piece.

If you’re still searching for the right equipment, this guide on choosing a good 3D printer for beginners can be a helpful resource.

10. Phrozen Ring

Price: Free Designer: Phrozen

3D-printed Phrozen Ring with textured design, a beginner-friendly 3D printing project by Phrozen for jewelry enthusiasts.

Last but not least, the Phrozen Ring is a compact, elegant project for those interested in jewelry or small detailed prints. Designed with intricate textures, this free ring model is perfect for beginners who want to practice working on smaller objects. It’s a straightforward print, and you can even try scaling it up or down depending on your needs. Great for learning about intricate designs without needing advanced skills.

And there you have it! These 3D printing ideas for beginners are an excellent way to dive into the world of 3D printing with minimal investment and maximum creativity. From playful creatures to functional items, each project is designed to be beginner-friendly, with minimal supports and easy post-processing. So, grab one (or more) of these models, fire up your printer, and start creating!

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