3D printing has led to exciting innovations in many different areas, and 3D printed jewelry has become especially prevalent. With 3D printing, artists are afforded greater flexibility both in design and manufacturing, while less intricate but still elegant designs can be affordably created in the home.
Unlike professionally printed jewelry, all of the below models can be printed on desktop 3D printers, so there’s less of a hassle, and they’ll still look great. For an extra wow factor, post-processing will take your new earrings to the next level, as we’ll see a bit further below.
If you see something you like but aren’t able to print yourself, check out Craftcloud. Thanks to our many partners around the world, you’ll have a vast array of materials, colors, and finishes available to you.
Before we dive in and discover some fun and dazzling earring designs, let’s take a look at a few more things you need to know before you start downloading models – and we’ll take a closer look at what Craftcloud has to offer.
Material Considerations
As with many models that will be 3D printed, one of the main things you’ll have to decide beforehand is what technology and material you’ll opt for. Of course, they each have their pros and cons.
FDM Printing (Fused Deposition Modeling)
- Pros: FDM printers are more affordable, making them suitable for home use. They offer a wide range of filament options, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and more. FDM printing allows for printing in multiple colors and experimenting with special filaments such as metal-infused, dual-color, or glow-in-the-dark options.
- Cons: FDM prints may have visible layer lines, which could require additional post-processing for a smoother finish. Intricate designs might be challenging due to limitations in resolution, especially if the piece is very small and delicate.
Resin Printing
- Pros: Resin 3D printing produces high-resolution prints with smooth surfaces, making it ideal for intricate jewelry designs. Resin prints typically require minimal post-processing for a polished look. Specialty materials, such as transparent resins, offer (predictably) translucent finishes, allowing for the creation of ethereal and captivating models.
- Cons: Resin printers are generally more expensive and laborious to clean and operate for home use compared to FDM printers. Additionally, the materials can be more toxic and require careful handling.
By considering these material options and implementing effective post-processing techniques, you can create stunning and personalized 3D printed earrings to complement any style or occasion. For those seeking professional-grade prints or materials not readily available for home use, services like Craftcloud provide a seamless solution.
Ordering through Craftcloud
Producing earrings with your 3D printer can be relatively simple, but when the goal is to create something truly stunning and to elevate a model to a refined piece of jewelry, a 3D printing service can be just the solution you’re looking for.
With a marketplace that allows the easy comparison of vetted 3D printing services, you can rely on Craftcloud to assist you in getting your earrings – even in solid 14k and 18k gold in three different tones (gold, rose, and white)!
With 127 high-tech materials available, Craftcloud can replicate your design exactly as you imagined it, from color-changing PLA to colored transparent resins, along with other materials used in the production of real gold jewelry, such as castable wax and a variety of metals.
In just a few simple steps, you can turn your idea into reality instead of dreaming about it:
- Upload your 3D models in STL, OBJ, STEP, 3MF, or ZIP file formats.
- Select the location, currency, and unit of measurement.
- Choose the material, finish, and color based on a variety of technologies.
- Select the offer that best addresses your needs and sit back, relax, and think about what outfit you’ll be matching those earrings with.
Soon, you’ll be receiving the highest quality available on the market right at your doorstep!
If, however, you’d like a more hands-on experience and want to embark on the adventure of crafting your art at home, check out the following tips.
Post-Processing Tips & Tricks
Once the perfect material or filament is selected, attention turns to the post-processing stage to refine and enhance the earrings. Let’s delve into some essential tips and tricks to elevate your 3D printed earrings to the next level.
- Supports: When printing intricate designs, supports may be necessary to prevent sagging or collapsing. Opt for easily removable supports and consider their placement to minimize damage to delicate earrings.
- Removing supports: Carefully remove supports using appropriate tools such as flush cutters or hobby knives. Take your time to avoid damaging the printed earrings.
- Smoothing techniques: Depending on the material used, various smoothing techniques can be employed, such as sanding, polishing, or using chemical smoothing agents (keep in mind that the process will differ depending on whether you’re using PLA, PETG, or ABS, for example). Experiment with different methods to achieve the desired finish.
- Painting: Enhance the appearance of your earrings by painting them with acrylic paints or specialized coatings. Use fine brushes for intricate designs and allow sufficient drying time between layers. The specific materials and process will also depend on whether you’ve opted for FDM or resin-based printing.
- Sealing: Seal the surface of your earrings with a clear coat or varnish to protect the paint and provide a glossy finish. Ensure the sealant is compatible with the material used for printing (and painting, if relevant).
- Adding embellishments: Get creative by adding embellishments such as rhinestones, beads, or charms to your earrings. Use adhesive suitable for the chosen material to ensure secure attachment.
Now that we’ve gone over the most important things to keep in mind, let’s get to our list! Drumroll, please…
Geometric
First up, we have some minimalist designs that will add a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Some of these are customizable models for even more personalization!
Crisscrossed Layers
This will add a little something special to your holidays, or just an average Thursday!
These crisscross cutout layered earrings in various forms were initially intended to be a greeting card design, but they eventually turned into earrings that can be themed around different color combinations. You could print Christmas trees in different shades of green, or some spooky stars in orange and black for Halloween!
The models are designed in layers, and the print is paused at specific heights to change filaments. While it’s a fiddly process to repeatedly manually switch filaments, the results speak for themselves!
- Who designed it? Penolopy Bulnick
- How printable/popular is it? This design has over 7,000 views and 23 likes on Instructables.
- Where to find it? Instructables
One Line
“One Line” style earrings offer a unique and modern interpretation of accessory art, incorporating elegant and minimalist designs into subtle and delicate forms. With precise dimensions and a thickness of just 1 mm, these earrings are lightweight and comfortable to wear while still capturing attention with their fluid and distinctive lines. Available in a variety of designs, including butterflies, owls, hummingbirds, and flowers, these earrings offer a range of options to add a touch of artistic style to any ensemble.
To replicate the minimalist designs, the designer recommends having a nozzle with a diameter to 0.4 mm and having a layer height set to 0.1 mm. They also suggest PLA for easy, lightweight, and durable printing, and among the makes you can see how, in spite of the simple design, multicolor filament can also look great.
Among the files available, you can download all the models together or individually, and you can find different sizes as well as a design that already includes the mounting hole.
- Who designed it? Repoholy
- How printable/popular is it? 4,200 downloads, 42 makes, and 1,100 likes show that simplicity has its charm.
- Where to find it? Printables
Triangles
These earrings feature a unique triangular pyramid shape that looks fashionably minimalist. You could try printing this design in different sizes or colors to add some variety to your collection.
The pictured model was printed on an FDM printer with supports, but the designer mentioned in a comment that it might be fine to print without.
- Who designed it? g.attila
- How printable/popular is it? This project has over 5,100 downloads and 28,300 views.
- Where to find it? MyMiniFactory
Galaxies
These geometrical earrings are designed to look like galaxies of stars. The pictured earrings were printed in sandstone through a 3D printing service, but they’d look just as great printed on your own machine.
The maker has shared a video about how they were designed in SelfCAD. You won’t be able to resist upgrading everyday occasions with such uniquely crafted earrings.
- Who designed it? Csandra
- How printable/popular is it? This design has over 1,100 downloads and more than 160 likes on MyMiniFactory.
- Where to find it? MyMiniFactory
Infill
Quite a few of the earring designs in this list are 2D shapes. Earrings like this can make a bold statement when printed solid, but if you want to get creative, why not experiment with different infill patterns?
As you can see from the photo above, printing a simple shape in a fun color with a funky infill can really level up your jewelry game.
There are detailed steps to follow with several downloadable designs to get you started. But really, the possibilities with this one are infinite!
- Who designed it? Penolopy Bulnick
- How printable/popular is it? Three other makers have shared their successfully customized designs, in addition to the rainbow of prints by the creator.
- Where to find it? Instructables
Spiral
Spiral earrings are a unique expression of elegance and sophistication. Inspired by the beauty of geometric elements, these earrings capture the essence of fluid movement and look stunning with special filaments. With their intricate and detailed design, these earrings are perfect for adding a touch of style to any occasion, whether it’s a special night out or a casual day.
The author provides 7 ready-to-print models in the 3MF file format; should you need to work on the files (to add the mounting holes, for example), you can always convert the 3MF files to STLs.
That said, it’s also possible to create your own fully customized style. To do this, you need to access the OpenSCAD file “spirals.scad” available in both Printables and GitHub. This script allows you to generate the seven different models of spiral earrings, and their dimensions can be adjusted as desired. Additionally, you’ll need to download the author’s OpenSCAD libraries, which are available in the same repository.
Once the script and libraries are available, you can generate the earring models by selecting the desired option in the script, rendering the result, and exporting it to an STL file. To create a pair of earrings, simply select the desired version (left or right) in the slicer and use the mirroring function to create the second one.
- Who designed it? gabr42
- How printable/popular is it? The 2,000 downloads and 16 makes are evidence that exclusivity never goes out of style and you too can make one.
- Where to find it? Printables
Nature
Next up are some nature-inspired models, with everything from classic cats to cheerful cherries!
Shamrock
In an atmosphere of celebration and luck, shamrock earrings are a delightful addition to the world of fashion and personal expression. Designed by altair3d, these charming earrings feature a unique design with intricate clusters of shamrocks, symbolizing, of course, good luck. With their lightweight and durability, these earrings offer unparalleled comfort, while their elegant and balanced aesthetics make them perfect for any occasion, from everyday wear to special events like – you guessed it – St. Patrick’s.
With many praises and helpful tips, comments on the shamrock earrings offer valuable insights for those looking to replicate this model. It is recommended to print these with a 0.2 mm layer, 3 walls, and 25% infill, ensuring an ideal combination of detail and strength. Some users even suggest adding additional infill layers in certain areas to optimize the quality and durability of the final product.
Additionally, the tip to enable ironing to achieve a smooth top surface is an excellent idea, providing a flawless finish to the earrings. For assembly, it’s recommended to use specific hooks mentioned by the designer, ensuring a perfect and secure fit.
- Who designed it? altair3d
- How printable/popular is it? MakerWorld reports over 365 downloads, around 300 prints, and 170 likes, showing that you won’t need luck to make yours.
- Where to find it? MakerWorld
Cats
These earrings are shaped like sleek and stylish cats – the perfect gift for the cat lover in your life. You could even paint them to look like your favorite feline friends!
The maker has also shared other cat earring designs if you want to expand your collection, including these politely sitting beauties.
- Who designed it? kendel3d
- How printable/popular is it? Five people have shared makes of this adorable model.
- Where to find it? Thingiverse
Owls
Owl earrings present a charming fusion of fashion and elegance, capturing nature’s essence in a delicate piece. With precise dimensions of 20 mm in height, 16 mm in width, and 2 mm in thickness, these earrings offer a subtle presence that complements a variety of styles and occasions. Furthermore, their versatility is enhanced by the option of color choice, allowing for personalized combinations that stand out and add a touch of unique charm to any ensemble.
Many praise the detailed and expressive modeling, highlighting the design’s ability to capture the essence of the owl in such a small piece. Useful tips shared by printers include recommendations for a layer height of 0.1 mm and the use of PLA for best results.
Additionally, the designer suggests adding a modifier in the slicer to create small holes (based on your infill of choice) in the bodies of the owls, adding a touch of realism and extra charm to the design. These tips, along with the model’s accessibility to a wide range of 3D printers, solidify owl earrings as a popular and practical choice for fashion and 3D printing enthusiasts.
- Who designed it? phigl
- How printable/popular is it? With 34 makes, 1,200 downloads, and 420 likes, it’s definitely a wise choice!
- Where to find it? Printables
Wings
This design is made to appear like dragon wings, but we think it also looks a bit like bat wings, in case Halloween is more your vibe. It’s an unusual model because the hooks are included, which if you’re printing in PLA, could be great for those with metal allergies.
This model is quite small but pretty complex – 3D printing beginners may want to start with something a little simpler. The earrings are designed to be printed in metal, so be careful if you want to use other materials. Some makers have successfully printed them in PLA, while others had trouble without supports.
- Who designed it? improbablecog
- How printable/popular is it? This design has 4 recorded makes and over 14,000 downloads!
- Where to find it? Thingiverse
Peacock Feathers
This design is shaped to look like stunning symmetrical peacock feathers. Going the extra mile and adding color to the pendants could really make these pieces pop.
The maker listed the print with a medium complexity level, and there’s one file to use for both ears. It can be printed in PLA with standard print settings.
- Who designed it? LordTailor
- How printable/popular is it? This design has almost 650 downloads and 6,800 views.
- Where to find it? Cults
Snowflakes
Snowflake earrings are a delightful representation of the unique beauty of ice crystals. Each snowflake is meticulously crafted to reflect the intricate symmetry and unique patterns found in nature, resulting in a piece that is both dazzling and subtle, especially when made translucent. With their delicate and elegant aesthetic, these earrings are ideal for adding a touch of sparkle and sophistication to any ensemble and will be a hit for any season or occasion.
To replicate the snowflake earring model, two 3D printed earrings, two earring hooks, and two rings are needed. The earrings are designed to be easily printed without the need for supports, making it a simple and straightforward process.
Once printed, the earrings can be easily assembled by adding the hooks and rings to complete the piece. Made of PLA, these earrings are lightweight and comfortable to wear, while their unique shape and design ensure they stand out as a stylish addition to any jewelry collection – and you can always add glitter for an even more dazzling effect.
- Who designed it? MichalFanta
- How printable/popular is it? With 10 makes, almost 150 likes, and 575 downloads it’s easy to understand why these are popular.
- Where to find it? Printables
Cherries
This design is shaped like a pair of cherries and has a fun retro vibe. The cherries print at around 2 cm each, so they’re definitely a bold look! Post-processing (e.g. painting them) could really level up these earrings.
The download of this design contains one file for both sides. The designer recommends printing at a 0.2-mm layer height with 100% infill.
- Who designed it? LethalTeaspoon
- How printable/popular is it? This earring design has over 1,000 downloads, 1 make, and 150 likes.
- Where to find it? Thingiverse
Feathers
This artwork is like a gentle whisper of nature captured in a fashion accessory. With their intricate details and delicate form, they evoke the lightness of feathers dancing in the wind. Each pair is a miniature masterpiece, and you can explore many other interesting colors; it’s a tribute to natural beauty that adds a touch of elegance and mystery to any ensemble.
To successfully replicate the intricate earrings, some guidelines are recommended. Use a 3D printer capable of precise printing, with a nozzle diameter of 0.4 mm. Many makers who replicated them mentioned opting for a layer height of 0.16 mm, which will help ensure sharp details and a smooth surface. When it comes to materials, opting for PLA will afford both an easy printing experience and durable, high-quality earrings.
- Who designed it? MichalFanta
- How printable/popular is it? This lightweight accessory shows its popularity with 21 makes, 1,900 downloads, and 466 likes.
- Where to find it? Printables
Pop Culture
Last but definitely not least, we have some everyday objects and pop culture references that will add a pop of personality to your wardrobe!
Space Invaders
These cute little aliens are based on the classic arcade game Space Invaders. Print them in the brightest colors you can find for a fun 80s throwback.
The designer suggests printing with a 20% infill and a 0.1-mm layer height. Measuring just 3 cm across, these only take about 10 minutes (each) to print, so you can print a whole alien invasion!
TARDIS
Definitely “smaller on the outside”, these earrings are a miniature replica of Doctor Who’s space-and-time machine, the TARDIS. Print a pair in blue and just add a splash of paint for the windows!
This design comes in a single file, and would also work as a necklace or keychain. One maker posted a good PLA print (pictured above) using an UltiMaker with no rafts, no supports, a 0.1-mm layer height, and 30% infill.
- Who designed it? Narg
- How printable/popular is it? This design has 6 recorded makes as well as over 3,000 downloads.
- Where to find it? Thingiverse
Sign of the Horns
Reveal your inner metalhead with these earrings, which are shaped like the sign of the horns. For this particular design, you have to make a hole in the print yourself to attach the earring hook, but this means you also get to choose the placement.
The scaled-down earring model was based on a design by dietz1. The maker printed the earrings on a MakerBot Replicator with a 5% infill and a 0.15-mm layer height, and they print to about 3 cm from base to fingertip.
- Who designed it? Bror
- How printable/popular is it? This design has 9 recorded makes, 2 remixes, and over 6,000 downloads.
- Where to find it? Thingiverse
Witch's Hats
Another pair to print for Halloween! These witch’s hat earrings look great hanging from a short chain rather than being attached directly to the hook.
This model was printed using a 10% infill and a 0.1-mm layer height, though according to the designer, 0.2 mm would also work. The designer has also shared an interesting video of how they created these spooky dangles.
- Who designed it? Desktop_Makes
- How printable/popular is it? This design has 15,100 views and nearly 1,200 downloads.
- Where to find it? Cults
Pi
Show your inner nerd with pride in these simple pi earrings. This designer indicates that the earrings’ dimensions are about 2.5 cm wide and 5 cm long when worn, but the design would be easy to scale if you wanted them to be smaller (or larger!).
No other printing advice was listed, but one maker listed their print settings: 0.25-mm layer height, no supports, no rafts, and a 15% infill.
- Who designed it? 3DCentralVA
- How printable/popular is it? This design has 18 recorded makes and over 7,000 downloads.
- Where to find it? Thingiverse
Twisted Bricks
Here’s a fun twist to a certain Danish building brick! The rotational design is what makes this model exceptional.
These brick earrings look great printed in bright colors to match their inspiration. Each earring ring takes approximately 45 minutes to print, which isn’t as quick as some others on this list, but the attention to detail is worth it. Makers have had success with both resin and FDM printers.
- Who designed it? blincoln
- How printable/popular is it? This twist on an old favorite has over 3,000 likes and 34 makes.
- Where to find it? Thingiverse
License: The text of "3D Printed Earrings: The Best Models to 3D Print" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.