Like us, you’re tremendously excited by the possibilities of 3D printing in 2025. Unfortunately, first, you must navigate a landscape cluttered with 3D printed objects that nobody wants or needs. We’re in danger of drowning in trinkets, doodads, and ornaments.
Fight the tide of mediocrity! Let’s make stuff that’s useful and cool! Here’s a list of great things to 3D print, right now, today. Prove to your nearest and dearest that there’s an everyday and practical application of this wonderful technology.
Updated monthly under the guise of our very own printocracy, we remove the five least clicked models each month and replace them with five new printables we’ve scoured the web to find. As the year trudges on, something will always be new, while the uninteresting items drift away. Simple!
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Phone Lantern
Your phone is an excellent, efficient light source, and it makes a decent flashlight. Unfortunately, the cell phone flash can be pretty hard on the eyes, but with this little diffuser gadget, you can turn your phone into a cozy light source. Print the parts, glue them together, and put them over your phone’s flash. It’s a fun thing to have if you go summer camping or spend a night on the balcony with friends.
Who made it? Supervince
Where to download: Printables
Headphones
Stylish over-ear headphones aren’t something that immediately comes to mind when you think of 3D printing. But here are free design files that let you 3D print most mechanical parts in the colors you like. When it comes to non-printables (speakers, headbands, and earpads), you can either buy a kit from the designer Headamame or order parts from AliExpress and other vendors. 3D printing and assembly are well-documented in writing and video, so even a 3D printing newcomer shouldn’t encounter problems.
Who made it? Headamame
Where to download: Cults
Vase
If you want to bring minimalistic elegance to your room, window sill, or sideboard, vases are a nice addition. Use them as sculptural objects or add some dried florals. If you’re looking for more interesting geometric vase designs, Decorartor got you covered with more designs. There’s a caveat, though: Due to the limitations of FDM printing, we wouldn’t recommend filling your vase with water without making it waterproof.
Who made it? Decorartor
Where to download: Cults
Slippers
If you are looking for a pair of shoes you can change into without thinking, here they are. The design is inspired by the classic Adilette. You can scale the slippers to your size, and thankfully, MakerVerse Designs provides you with a table for converting international sizes to the right 3D printing scaling factor. If you print them with TPU 70A material instead of the typical TPU 95A and a 0.6 nozzle, they should be quite comfortable. Use a bright color to make a fashion statement.
Who made it? MakerVerse Designs
Where to download: MakerWorld
Cable Management Box
There are plenty of clever 3D printed solutions for keeping your cables in check, but when it comes to power strips, the options become quite thin. This box, designed by prolific designer Flowalistik, can hold a regular small power strip (280 x 140 x 150mm), fits most print beds, and is very easy to print. So, print this to create a distraction- and cable-free zone while maintaining a clean, modern look.
Who made it? Flowalistik
Where to download: Cults
Minimalist Clock
Is it just us, or do 3D designs get better and better with each year? Anyway, this clock looks like something you’d pick up at IKEA without hesitation – it’s a lovely, understated, minimalist design. Printing and assembly is very easy. You’ll need the Bambu Clockwork Hardware Kit for the clock components, but of course, you can 3D print the rest with any printer you like.
Who made it? ZHK
Where to download: Makerworld
Coffee Filter Holder
It doesn’t matter if you’re reminded of Aspen or the Alps, this print turns mundane coffee filters into a kitchen eye-catcher. There are six variants that can hold just a few or plenty of most standardized coffee filters.
Who made it? Simon 3D
Where to download: Printables
Ukulele
The ukulele is a fun to play, relatively easy to learn instrument. There are some good free 3D printable designs around, but these new ones look so much better than the rest. In our humble opinion, the classic Aloha or wood patterns really shine.
You’ll need a multicolor printer, of course. Printing the body will take you roughly 10 hours with an infill of 45 percent. Once printed and assembled, you get a Soprano Uke that looks great and will hold the tuning for some songs. Of course, you’ll need ukulele strings, a strong glue for the multicolor neck, and tuning pegs.
Who made it? Brian M801
Where to download: MakerWorld
Spool Lamp
While looking at a Bambu Lab reusable spools, designer Hugo had a lightbulb moment – literally. Why not turn potential waste into a stylish 3D printed lampshade? And he didn’t stop at looks. The LED light dims with a simple twist of the spool’s center knob, and you can swap between two different shade patterns. With clear step-by-step instructions, wiring up the electronics is a breeze.
Who made it? Hugo
Where to download: MakerWorld
Travel Capsule
Everyone needs different travel accessories, which is why a smart, modular system for your essentials can make all the difference. Need a spot for your toiletries, cables, chargers, or keys? Just 3D print the compartments you need – they screw together to form a tidy, secure stack that keeps everything in its place. Want extra security? Add a 3D-printed 4-digit lock and turn it into your own mini capsule vault. On the move? Then add a strap to hang the ensemble on your backpack. Each capsule has a standard 65 mm inner diameter, so everything fits together seamlessly.
Who made it? MMM
Where to download: MakerWorld
Headphone Stand
Printables user H3li0 is a skilled 3D designer with multiple contest wins on Printables and over 100,000 downloads of his designs.
His latest creation, a headphone stand, keeps your over-ear headphones both showcased and easily accessible on your desk. The model is made up of just three parts: the base, the stand, and a screw. We printed one in about half a day, and it looks awesome. A nice touch: the base even includes four indentations for rubber feet.
Who made it? H3li0
Where to download: Printables
Finger Chopsticks for Gamers
Statistically, the dirtiest item in your home is likely your kitchen sink sponge. But if you’re someone who snacks while gaming, your controller or mouse might be a close second. Fortunately, there’s a solution!
These finger chopsticks let you enjoy your snacks without ever touching your controller, keeping it clean while you game. A clever fix for dedicated gamers.
And whatever you do – never clean your controller with that kitchen sponge!
Who made it? Vajcnerd
Where to download: MakerWorld
Folding Tripod
If you’re into filming or recording audio, a sturdy tripod is essential. Most gear fits easily thanks to the standard mounting system – but a quality tripod usually costs at least $30 to $40. Luckily, you can save a good chunk of change by 3D printing one yourself.
This design comes in two sizes (70 mm and 110 mm) and can support up to 1 kilogram. Assembly isn’t the simplest, so be sure to check out the excellent video instructions to see if it’s within your skill level.
Who made it? Linus3D
Where to download: MakerWorld
Foldable Pocket Comb
If your hair, beard, or even your dog’s fur is looking a bit unruly, a 3D-printed pocket comb is all you need to tidy things up.
Compact and easy to carry, this comb features sturdy, rounded teeth – each shaped like a smooth cylinder – to prevent scalp irritation. Simply snap the two parts together, and you’re ready to groom on the go!
Who made it? Jakobdam
Where to download: MakerWorld
Water Lily Lamp Shade
There are plenty of cool lamp shades in the 3D printing file repositories, but this one is a real highlight. It looks quite delicate, is modeled to give the impression of a water lily, and uses very little material – some parts are just three layers thick.
The printing can be challenging, so calibrate your machine. Fortunately, none of the parts need support structures. An E27 lamp socket will hold this print in place.
Who made it? Modular Mapping
Where to download: Makerworld
Desktop Arcade Basketball
Occasionally, we come across a design we are amazed by but isn’t all that useful. As an excuse, we say this fully 3D-printed desktop game can make coffee breaks with your colleagues much more entertaining. It’s a print that will take some time, but there are detailed assembly instructions. Make sure to use TPU for the basketballs to add authenticity.
Who made it? Daniel
Where to download: Printables
AI Assistant
Neo, a friendly little robot, can wave its hands and blink its LED eyes. Alone, those are kind of boring, but it also serves as AI desktop assistant, which elevates its appeal. The system interfaces with Google’s Gemini large language model and is driven by an Arduino Nano. Thanks to an included microphone and a speaker, you can ask a question and have Neo answer them.
Who made it? Eighteen18
Where to download: Instructables
Band-Aid Case
You don’t have to work in child care to understand that band-aids are the bond between the hurt and the caring. But carrying band-aids in a massive clinical pack is simply not practical, and if you just put one in your pocket, it’ll be hopelessly crumpled when called upon. So, this band-aid case comes in handy. There’s even a high-capacity case that holds up to 25 band-aids – if you work in a kindergarten, you’ll need this print.
Who made it? TCCinTheHouse
Where to download: Printables
Desktop Clock
Abstractia Design offers several interesting and useful prints using a similar design, ranging from desktop clocks to Apple Watch and iPhone stands. Inspired by retro design (it looks like a flea market find from the 80s, doesn’t it?), the Arc Clock has smooth curves and a lovely ripple effect. It uses the Bambu clock kit, so plan an extra $10 for the clock’s budget.
Who made it? Abstractia Design
Where to download: Makerworld
Table Side Data Cable Clamp
Finally get organized in 2025!
CatMaster likes to design things that’ll keep you organized, as their profile on MakerWorld suggests. We especially like this model that not only brings cables within your reach so you don’t have to dive under the desk to get that pesky USB-C cable, it also fits nearly all desks due to its clamping mechanism. Definitely a helpful print, plus it looks nice, too.
Who made it? CatMaster
Where to download: MakerWorld
Waste Bag Holder
If you’re 3D printing a lot, you know the mess your machine can produce: purge lines, skirts, and the occasional failed print can quickly pile up. That’s where a waste bag proves invaluable.
Printables member bequ3 developed a clever design for a holder that can be attached to a wall or any vertical surface. Lofted ribs connect the inner ring and outer walls for maximum stability while making bag changes a breeze. Plus, the design is fully scalable to fit your needs.
Who made it? bequ3
Where to download: Printables
Bag Clip
There’s no shortage of 3D models designed to keep opened packages securely closed. This bag clip is quick and easy to 3D print in just a few minutes, making it perfect for keeping your M&Ms in the bag instead of scattered in your backpack. Additionally, ktbr has created a remix with toothed jaws for improved grip.
Who made it? Harpreet Singh
Where to download: Printables
Pallet Coaster
Add a touch of industrial style to your coffee table with a printable pallet coaster. This eyecatcher mimics the look of a real wooden pallet. Personalize it by adjusting the size or color during printing for a custom finish.
Who made it? AtCreations
Where to download: Cults
Minecraft Mini Lantern
If you grew up playing Minecraft, this is a thing that you’ll want to print. If you didn’t, it’s still a great-looking, stylish lamp. Just print the housing with black and dark brown filament plus four yellow panes for the sides. The lantern is illuminated by a small electric tea candle you can get for cheap everywhere. Maybe pick one of the flickering models – it just looks cooler.
Who made it? Enno Grensemann
Where to download: Thingiverse
Lithopane Light Box
Maybe you already have the proper knowledge about how to print a lithophanes, but what do you do once you have it? How can you present it optimally? Here’s a practical lightbox with LEDs that’ll make your favorite motif shine. Of course, the box can be scaled to your liking. If you are not sure how to turn your photo into a lithophane, here is a free service to get your STL file.
Who made it? Syeelong
Where to download: Thingiverse
Coin Sorting Vault
If you search for Rocco’s Stuff on Printables, you’ll see more vaults than you’ll encounter in a Fallout game. The models are exquisitely designed, contain many pieces, and are something that you’ll be proud of once you manage to build one.
This model, which won the gold medal at the Piggy Banks contest on Printables, has a special trick up its sleeve: You feed it some coins, which automatically get sorted in the proper boxes inside the safe. And yes, there are two versions, one for American and another one for European coins.
Who made it? Rocco’s Stuff
Where to download: Printables
Airless Basketball
3D printed basketballs aren’t a novelty, but MakeItLab spent a lot of time and research to 3D print a basketball that actually bounces like the real thing, they say. On his Cults page, you can find plenty of filament choices and links to some videos showing the different results. So, if you are looking for an airless basketball that is actually fun to play with, check it out.
Who made it? MakeItLab
Where to download: Cults
Twist & Lock Containers
Where would humanity be without containers? Living in a cluttered world, that’s for sure. So, if you want to keep your gold dust, diamonds, or precious marbles from your childhood safe and dust-free, you should print these containers. They come in 8 sizes, sport a rectangle texture, and a cap that neatly snaps into place. They are also designed to be stackable and fit perfectly in your home, office, or workshop. We recommend printing them in PETG, as its rigidity is perfect for the snapping mechanism.
There’s also a version with an inner twist and lock mechanism.
Who made it? OP Design
Where to download? MakerWorld
Articulated Dummy
Dummy 13 is a 3D printable action figure. These articulated models have many uses in art, movies, or even fashion; and they are a joy to look at. The free version 1.0 is designed for super expressive articulation and allows for multiple customization. It comes with an inner frame and an outer layer of armor. Be aware that the prints are quite challenging, but the result looks stunning.
Who made it: Soozafone
Where to download: Printables
Phone Dock
Simplicity can be so elegant. Like Scott Yu-Jan’s iPhone dock, which looks like it came straight from the workshop of legendary designer Dieter Rams. The dock charges your phone using a Qi charger, and it can even fill up your earbuds at the same time. Need your phone back? Just press a sleek bar, reminiscent of a snooze button, and you are ready to go.
Do not despair, Android users, as this design is too good not to be adapted to your phone models.
Who made it? Scott Yu-Jan
Where to download: MakerWorld
Kart Race Mario Style
If you’re into Mario Kart, you’ll love this. You can now experience the thrill of the fun racer in the real world, with 3D printed go-karts and a Mario-themed racing track set. Customize the layout of the track, complete with obstacles, and race your favorite character against your friends.
The project will keep you and your printer busy for days, planning, printing, and, of course, racing.
Who made it? Chiz_m
Where to download: MakerWorld
Scoop
SabreDesign has some beautiful free STL files, and this scoop looks like it’s coming right out of a design magazine. It can be printed in one go without support structures. It’s great for pet food, granulate, grain, or other material. The curve ensures that the material doesn’t fall out when you’re pulling the scoop out of the container.
Who made it? SabreDesign
Where to download: MakerWorld
Phone Pillow
We adore this “phone pillow” design: Crafted to resemble a cozy cushion, the plush-like design provides a comfortable resting place for your device, seamlessly blending functionality with style.
It’s comfortably sized for bigger phones (like the Samsung Galaxy S24 or iPhone 15 Pro Max). If your phone is smaller, scale the model to reduce your print time. There’s an additional version with a slot for the charging cable.
Who made it? HpInvent
Where to download: Makerworld
Collapsible Scratcher
There are places on our backs that even well-trained yogis can’t reach. Apparently, mosquitoes have a natural talent for biting in exactly these places. And when the bites start to itch, you must do an undignified wall dance to scratch the spot.
With this pull-out print-in-place design, you always have a “helping hand” at your service. Simply extend the rod, put it in place, start scratching, and… aaah, that’s better.
Who made it? Veritas
Where to download: Printables
Adjustable Height Support
This simple mechanism provides a column-like support. It offers dynamic height and can easily be adjusted in place. Just put the print under the part you want to elevate or fixate, grab a screwdriver, put it in one of the holes, and start to turn the screw until everything sits tight.
Designer Happymaker reports he has been testing the mechanism with 75 kg, but he’s sure it can support even more. You can level your furniture or even hold a window in an open position, but please don’t try it out with Grandma’s Ming vase. The support’s height varies from 32 mm to 102 mm.
Who made it? Happymaker
Where to download: Printables
Stencils for Post-Its
Thingiverse user SasquatchSocks thought it would be cool “to have a modular case for Post-It notes which can sit on a desk.” To that end, they designed a privacy-centric case that can be viewed only from a 20 to 40-degree angle.
That’s nice, but the ingenious part, in our humble opinion, is the option to 3D print stencils for a weekly calendar, a task list, a graphing grid, and last but not least, a stencil giving folding instructions for a P-03 Rival paper plane. Everything can be clipped together and prints in a matter of minutes.
Who made it? SasquatchSocks
Where to download: Thingiverse
Hollow Clock V
No, there’s no hidden mechanical mechanism or pure magic keeping the hands of this clock floating in mid-air. It’s actually a clever use of magnets that makes the hands move, with only the minute hand attached to the ring’s mechanism.
The smart design by designer Shinsaku Hiura is now in its fifth iteration (hence the name.) The whole clock mechanism is 3D printed. All you need to complete the project are magnets, a USB-power inlet, an RP2040-based microcontroller, and a stepper motor to get your timekeeper in motion.
Who made it? Shinsaku Hiura
Where to download: Thingiverse
Brick Stackable Desk Boxes
Existing in a space somewhere between playfulness and cleanliness, these stackable desk boxes can be attached and detached easily. They are five times the size of a certain iconic brick brand, and bring a bit of childhood nostalgia into your office. Currently, there are two versions available (2×2 and 2×4 size).
Who made it? Sakul
Where to download: MakerWorld
3D QR Code Generator
There are plenty of cases where it’s way more useful to 3D print a QR code instead of printing it on paper – displaying it outdoors, for example. A browser-based website will turn your input into a QR code and allow you to download the generated code as an STL. All you need to do is fire up your slicer. Minutes later, your 3D printed QR code is ready for display.
Who made it? pedRamezani
Where to download: Printables
Desktop Trash Can
For some of us, keeping your desktop tidy can become quite a feat. So, with this three-part print (can, top, and lid), you will have a place for all those old stickies, chocolate bar wraps, and pencil sharpener waste. Trust us, this helps.
Who made it? AlexMu
Where to download: Printables
Miniature Nerf Blaster
This toy gun design has a fascinating back story, and you should watch the video explaining it. After having built the world’s largest Nerf gun, YouTuber and engineer Marc Rober wanted to go for the opposite: The smallest working Nerf gun in the world. He and a team of scientists managed to shrink a working Nerf blaster to the size of a hair and even go beyond that. Unless your 3D printer can print with carbon nanotubes, you won’t make it that far, but it’s definitely worth exploring the wonderful one-piece compliant mechanism.
Who made it? BYUCMR
Where to download: Cults
Toilet Paper Roll Holder
It’s always smart to have some spares around … that’s especially true for toilet paper rolls. This Shawn-the-Sheep-themed model holds one roll, is easy to print and assemble and looks as fluffy as a sheep itself. Cute!
Who made it? Enno Grensemann
Where to download: Thingiverse
PET Filament Maker
The soft drink industry gladly takes our money and leaves us not only a sugary aftertaste but also a whopping 1.3 billion plastic bottles used per day.
One way of recycling them is the 3D printable PETamentor2. It turns waste plastic bottles into 3D printing filament. A cutter slices the bottle into small strands, which then get compacted in a heated nozzle. The result is a strand of filament you can use for future projects. Most parts of the PETamentor2 are 3D printed. Building, handling, and operating the machine isn’t overly complicated. Our verdict? It’s so much better than just throwing stuff away.
Who made it? Tofna1
Where to download: PETamentor2
Flat Pocket Whistle
This whistle is small, looks great, fits snugly on a keyring, and emits a clear, high dual-tone sound. Despite its size and height (only 3mm), it’s actually quite loud! Don’t use support structures when printing it, and make sure the first layer is just right.
Who made it? Jonas Daehnert
Where to download: Printables
Customizable Keychain
How about a personalized keyring with your name, which you can use as a fidget toy? Pick the letters, then choose a base for up to 15 characters. The free download contains the alphabet in a standard font with non-rotating letters. Or with rotating letters if you like to keep your fingers busy.
Who made it? Layermodels
Where to download: Thingiverse
Hexx Case Tool Roll
Looking at old Dutch Rolykit Toolboxes, maker Davie came up with this ingenious design to store your tools. These individual compartments can be rolled into a compact hexagonal toolbox, and still, everything stays in its place.
If you like the idea, you’ll find more clever tool storage designs on his Thingiverse profile.
Who made it? Davie CC
Where to download: Thingiverse
Squeeze Fan
Is it getting hot outside? Are you in desperate need of cooling? Well, this 3D printed fan, once assembled, can actually be used to cool you down. It is powered by a squeezing mechanism that doesn’t require additional batteries and, according to its maker, it’s more than just a toy.
Who made it? George Zhu
Where to download: Printables
Slim Credit Card Wallet
Press the button on the back of this wallet and up to five cards will slide out. The print consists of just three parts, with the assembly instructions found on the Thingiverse page.
Who made it? Aljaz Titoric
Where to download: Thingiverse
Self-Watering Planter
Houseplants dying from neglect? NEVER AGAIN. Print off this automatic plant waterer, and your conscience will remain clean. Particularly useful for kitchen herbs, where you can make them last up to a week longer by re-potting in this natty device.
Who made it: Parallel Goods
Where to download it: Cults
Card Deck Shuffler
Those prone to mid-shuffle fumbles, your Poker face-saving prayers are answered! MyMiniFactory user LarsRb has concocted this colorful creation with the sole purpose to successfully shuffle decks of cards up to official poker card size.
Who made it: LarsRb
Where to download: MyMiniFactory
50 hand-selected prints aren’t enough? Here you can find all of our Thing of the Week articles – be sure to check them out.
Image credits: All images copyright their respective owners
Lead image source: Image: Supervince
License: The text of "50 Cool Things to 3D Print for May 2025" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.