A 3D pen is not just a toy, but a full-fledged creative tool that allows you to create volumetric objects literally before our eyes. Many beginners are confused by the question: "Where to start?" - and in vain! Even without experience, you can make stylish jewelry, useful accessories or original gifts. The main thing is to choose simple projects, which do not require complex drawing or modeling skills.
In this article we have collected 10 proven ideasthat everyone can do. You will learn which plastic is best to use for different tasks, how to avoid common mistakes (for example, nozzle overheating or sticking), and get step-by-step instructions with photos. And also secret life hacks on how to make crafts stronger and neater, even if the hand shakes.
It doesn't matter if you bought 3Doodler Start for a child or professional MYNT3D Pro for yourself - these ideas are universal. Let's start with the simplest and gradually move on to more interesting projects!
1. Simple three-dimensional figures: animals and plants
Start with flat contours is the basis for any 3D objects. For example, draw the silhouette of a cat or flower on paper, and then outline it with plastic, lifting the pen up to create volume. This is how you get a cute pendant or magnet for the refrigerator.
For animals use PLA plastic — it hardens quickly and does not deform. Melting point: 180–200°C (check the instructions for your pen model). If the plastic stretches like chewing gum, the temperature is too high.
- 🐱 Cat or dog: Start with the ears, then the body, paws and tail. Glue the parts together with hot plastic.
- 🌸 Flower in a pot: Make the petals separate and the stem a solid line. The pot can be “printed” in a spiral.
- 🦋 Butterfly: Draw the wings on a flat surface, then carefully bend them upward.
⚠️ Attention: Do not press too hard on the pen when drawing thin details (for example, a cat's antennae) - the plastic may tear. Keep your speed moderate: not too fast, but also don’t stay in one place.
To prevent the figure from sticking to the paper, use cling film or parchment as a backing. Once cooled, the plastic will come off easily!
2. Jewelry: bracelets, earrings and pendants
3D pen jewelry looks no worse than store bought, but they cost pennies. For decorations it is better to take flexible plastic (TPU) or Metallic PLA - it looks like real metal. Temperature range for TPU: 210–220°C (but check compatibility with your pen!).
The secret of neat bracelets is cardboard template. Cut a strip of the desired width, outline it with plastic in 2-3 layers, and then add patterns. For the earrings, make a loop base, to which you then attach decor (flowers, geometric shapes).
- 💍 Ring: Wrap plastic around a cylindrical object (like a felt-tip pen), then decorate with dots or waves.
- 🔗 Key chain: Alternate links of different colors. For strength, connect them with hot plastic.
- 🌟 Star pendant: Draw a star on paper, outline with plastic, then add volume around the edges.
| Decoration type | Recommended plastic | Temperature, °C | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| bracelet | TPU or PLA | 180–220 | ⭐ |
| Earrings | PLA (metallic) | 190–200 | ⭐⭐ |
| Ring | ABS (durable) | 220–230 | ⭐⭐ |
| Chain | PLA (flexible) | 180–190 | ⭐ |
3. Useful little things for the home: stands and hooks
You can do it with a 3D pen functional things, which will simplify life. For example, phone stand or key hook. The main rule: use ABS plastic - it is stronger than PLA and can withstand loads. Temperature: 220–240°C.
For a phone stand, draw a contour on paper with an angle of 45° (so that the smartphone does not fall), then outline it with plastic in 3-4 layers. Make the hook for the keys in the form of a spiral or the letter “S” - this way it will be stronger.
- 📱 Phone stand: Add stiffeners at the back to prevent the structure from bending.
- 🔑 Key hook: Attach to the wall with double-sided tape or screw.
- 🖥️ Cable organizer: Draw a box with holes for the wires.
⚠️ Attention: If the stand or hook will hold heavy objects (such as a power bank), strengthen it internal frame made of wire. Simply wrap the wire with plastic when drawing.
Tilt angle 45–60°|Wall thickness at least 3 mm|Use ABS plastic|Add stiffeners-->
4. Toys and educational games for children
3D pen is a great way develop spatial thinking in a child. Start with simple puzzles or a constructor: draw squares, triangles and circles on paper, then transfer them into volume. Choose plastic non-toxic (for example, Corn based PLA) and bright colors.
Suitable for older children moving toys: a snake on a spring, a spinner or even a mini-catapult. The secret is to do flexible joints — for this, use thin layers of plastic or special TPU hinges.
- 🧩 3D puzzle: Create different shaped parts that connect to each other.
- 🎠 Top: Draw a cone with a sharp end, then spin!
- 🐍 Snake: Alternate segments with flexible plastic “joints”.
How to make toys safe for children?
1. Use only certified PLA (no harmful additives).
2. Check for sharp edges - if there are, melt them with a lighter (carefully!).
3. For children under 5 years old, avoid small parts (risk of swallowing).
4. After playing, wash toys with warm water - PLA is not afraid of moisture.
5. Repair and upgrade of household items
3D pen can replace glue, soldering iron or bolts on the farm. With its help, you can easily fix a broken cabinet handle, fix a fallen chair leg, or make individual case for the remote control. For repairs, take ABS or PETG - they are stronger and more resistant to mechanical stress.
Example: if you The headphone plug is broken, wrap the tear area with plastic, forming a new body. For strength, add a piece of heat shrink tubing inside. And if plastic bucket handle broke off, “print” a new one right on the spot!
- 🔧 Cabinet handle repair: Wrap plastic around the broken area to form a new handle.
- 🎮 Gamepad stand: Make a holder for the joystick to prevent it from falling off the table.
- 🔌 Wire insulation: Instead of electrical tape, wrap the exposed contacts with ABS plastic.
⚠️ Attention: If you are repairing electrical appliances, unplug them first! The plastic from the 3D pen is non-conductive, but it's better to be on the safe side.
6. Decor and art: from postcards to wall panels
With a 3D pen you can create unique art projects. For example, voluminous postcards for the holiday: draw the outline of a heart or Christmas tree on cardboard, then add plastic elements. For panels use stencils - this way the drawing will be more accurate.
The secret of realistic details - layering. For example, for sakura flower first make the branches, then the petals (in a thin layer), and finally the stamens. Take plastic transparent or glitter for a glass effect.
- 🎨 Three-dimensional picture: Combine different colored plastics to create textures.
- 🖼️ Photo frame: Make the base out of cardboard and the decorations out of plastic.
- 🌅 Landscape with mountain peaks: Use the layering technique.
For complex art projects, practice on a rough draft first! Draw a sketch with a pencil, and then transfer it to 3D in parts.
7. Car accessories: stands and organizers
Drivers will appreciate it practical little things from a 3D pen: smartphone holder for dashboard, a hook for bags or even a mini organizer for small items in the glove compartment. Use ABS or PETG - they do not melt in the sun (unlike PLA).
For the phone holder, draw a base with grooves to fit the size of the gadget, and then add “legs” for fixation. Attach with double-sided tape or Velcro. If you want to do glass coaster, reinforce it with a metal plate inside.
- 📱 Phone holder: Add rubber pads (made of TPU) to avoid scratching the screen.
- 🔑 Key hook behind the steering wheel: Attach to the panel near the steering wheel.
- 🚗 Charging cable organizer: Make a spiral holder.
Before installing an accessory into your car, check that it does not interfere with airbags or control levers!
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about working with a 3D pen
🔹 Which plastic is better for beginners?
PLA - An ideal choice for beginners: it is non-toxic, odorless and hardens quickly. Melting point: 180–200°C. For flexible products (bracelets, toys), take TPU, but note that it requires a higher temperature (210–220°C) and does not fit all handle models.
🔹 Why doesn’t plastic stick to the surface?
The reasons may be:
- Temperature too low - increase heat by
10–15°C. - Dirty or greasy base - wipe it with alcohol.
- Feed plastic too fast - draw slower.
If the problem persists, try using glue stick as a substrate.
🔹 How to connect two parts together?
There are three ways:
- “Welding” with hot plastic: warm up the handle and move it along the joint.
- Use superglue (suitable for PLA).
- Make grooves in the parts (like in a LEGO set) and connect them mechanically.
🔹 Is it possible to paint finished products?
Yes! ABS holds acrylic paint well, and PLA can be coated with nail polish or a special varnish for 3D printing. Before painting, sand the surface with fine sandpaper (400–600 grit) for better grip.
🔹 How long does plastic last in a handle?
Shelf life of plastic - 2–3 years if stored properly (in a dry place, away from the sun). If the filament becomes brittle or changes color, it is best not to use it. Store the opened coil in a vacuum bag with silica gel.