Just bought your first 3D printer? 🎉
Now you’re probably wondering — “What should I print first?”
Here are 5 easy, useful, and fun projects every 3D printing beginner should try. These will help you learn slicing, printer calibration, and design basics — without wasting filament.
🖨️ 1. Bed Leveling Test (XYZ Calibration Cube)
📌 Why it’s useful:
- Helps check dimensional accuracy
- Reveals bed leveling or layer shift issues
- Easy to print (20–30 minutes)
🔗 Download STL: Thingiverse XYZ Cube
💡 Print it once after bed leveling and again after a few prints to compare quality.
🖨️ 2. Nameplate or Keychain with Text
📌 Why it’s useful:
- Teaches basic design using Tinkercad
- First step toward custom gifts
- Helps you learn about fonts, extrusion, and supports
🛠️ Tip: Use Tinkercad to create a flat base, add text, export STL, and slice in Cura.
🖨️ 3. Cable Organizer or Earphone Winder
📌 Why it’s useful:
- Practical use in daily life
- Introduces functional part design
- Strength test: try PLA vs PETG
🔗 Download STL: Printables – Cable Clip
🧩 You’ll learn how to size objects properly to fit real items.
🖨️ 4. Phone Stand (Foldable or Basic)
📌 Why it’s useful:
- Teaches balance and print stability
- Multiple options: fixed, foldable, adjustable
- Looks great and useful on your desk
📦 Material used: Around 20–30g of PLA
🕒 Print Time: 1.5–2 hours
🖨️ 5. Mini Tool Holder or SD Card Organizer
📌 Why it’s useful:
- Keeps your 3D tools or SD cards organized
- Involves overhangs and bridges
- Introduces slot fit and tolerance
🔗 Great beginner designs:
🧠 Bonus Tip: Track Your Learning
Create a simple notebook or digital sheet to track:
- Print name
- Slicer settings
- Time taken
- Issues faced (e.g. warping, stringing)
- Final result (✅ / ❌)
🎯 Trinity Layers Advice:
“Start with small, meaningful prints. When it’s useful, you’ll stay motivated to fix what goes wrong.”