3D printing is a fascinating and innovative technology that allows users to transform digital designs into physical objects. This technology has a wide range of applications, from hobby projects to professional production. If you're looking for gift ideas for 3D printing enthusiasts, here are seven great gift ideas:
1. high quality filament
Filament is the essential material used in 3D printers to transform digital designs into physical objects. The quality of the filament plays a crucial role in the final quality of the prints. A gift of high-quality filament in different colors and materials is an excellent choice for 3D printing enthusiasts. Here are two main aspects that make this gift particularly valuable:
- Improving print quality:
- Higher level of detail: High-quality filament enables a finer and more accurate representation of details in the print. It flows more evenly and reduces problems such as clogging or uneven layers.
- Better end results: Good filaments provide a smoother surface and stronger structures, resulting in more impressive and durable objects.
- Expansion of creative possibilities:
- Variety of colors and materials: With a selection of different colors and filament types such as PLA, ABS, PETG or even more specialized options such as wood or metal filaments, the 3D printing enthusiast can experiment and realize a variety of projects.
- Adaptation to different projects: Different filaments have different properties and applications. A gift set with a variety of filaments allows the user to choose the right material for a specific project, be it for decorative purposes, functional parts or even flexible creations.
Overall, a selection of high-quality filaments is not only a practical gift, but also one that encourages creativity and experimentation. It's a gift that keeps on giving as it allows the 3D printing enthusiast to further develop their skills and explore a wide range of projects.
Example in the picture (Digitec): https://www.digitec.ch/de/s1/product/creality-filament-pla-pla-175-mm-1000-g-mehrfarbig-3d-filament-23762134
2. 3D printer tool set
A high-quality tool set is an ideal gift for 3D printing enthusiasts. It plays a central role in the post-processing and maintenance of 3D prints. Here are two main reasons why such a set is particularly valuable:
- Versatility in post-processing:
- Precision tools: Tools such as files, sandpaper and cutting tools are essential to remove excess material and achieve a smooth surface. They help to emphasize the fine details of the printed object.
- Variety of tools: A good kit contains a wide range of tools, including tweezers and scrapers, which are useful for precise work on small or hard-to-reach areas of the print.
- Maintenance and improvement of the printing process:
- Maintenance of the 3D printer: Tools are not only important for post-processing the prints, but also for maintaining the printer itself. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and efficiency of the printer.
- Increasing print quality: Regular maintenance and adjustments carried out with the right tools can improve the quality of prints while reducing the likelihood of printing errors.
Such a tool set is not only a practical gift, but also a token of appreciation for the passion and dedication of the 3D printing enthusiast. It allows them to expand their skills, refine their creations and get the most out of the 3D printer.
Example in the picture (Digitec): https://www.digitec.ch/de/s1/product/creality-werkzeugbox-fuer-3d-drucker-maintanance-kit-3d-drucker-zubehoer-25359555
3. print bed adhesive
Print bed adhesive plays a crucial role in the 3D printing process by ensuring that the object stably adheres to the print bed throughout the printing process. A high-quality print bed adhesive as a gift can be of great benefit to a 3D printing enthusiast. Here are two main aspects that make this gift particularly valuable:
- Improvement in pressure reliability:
- Strong adhesion: Good print bed adhesive ensures that the first layer of the print adheres firmly to the print bed. This is crucial, as an object that moves or warps during printing can have a negative impact on the end result.
- Prevention of printing errors: The improved adhesion reduces common printing problems such as warping (distortion) or detachment of the object from the print bed, resulting in a higher print success rate.
- Support for a wide range of materials:
- Compatibility with different filaments: Some filaments, especially those that tend to warp, such as ABS, benefit significantly from a good print bed adhesive. Choosing the right adhesive can therefore expand the choice of materials and the versatility of printing projects.
- Easy application and removal: High-quality print bed adhesive is easy to apply and the printed object can be removed after cooling without damage. This facilitates the entire printing process and maintains the quality of the print bed.
A gift of high-quality print bed adhesive shows that you understand the needs and challenges of a 3D printing enthusiast. It's a practical and thoughtful gift that will help improve their printing projects and make their creative process easier.
Example in the picture (Brack): https://www.brack.ch/3dlac-spruehkleber-3dlac-leimspray-dose-400-ml-1612057?
4. 3D modeling software
Gifting a license for professional 3D modeling software such as Autodesk Fusion 360 or Blender is an excellent idea for 3D printing enthusiasts. Such software tools are crucial for creating your own 3D models and offer a wealth of features that fully utilize the potential of 3D printing. Here are two main reasons why such software is a valuable gift:
- Expansion of design capabilities:
- Professional tools: These software packages offer advanced tools and features that go far beyond basic modeling capabilities. They enable detailed designs, complex geometries and precise control over every element of the model.
- Creativity and personalization: With software like this, the recipient can realize their own ideas from scratch. This not only encourages creativity, but also makes it possible to design and print personalized and unique objects.
- Improving 3D printing expertise:
- From idea to printed object: The ability to design your own models adds a new dimension to the 3D printing process. It enables the seamless transition from an idea to a physical object.
- Integration with 3D printing technology: Both Autodesk Fusion 360 and Blender offer features specifically optimized for 3D printing, such as checking the printability of a model and adapting to the specifications of the 3D printer used.
By gifting a license for such professional 3D modeling software tools, you enable the 3D printing enthusiast to hone their skills and take their creative projects to a professional level. It's a gift that not only brings joy, but also provides long-term value and skills.
Link to Fusion360: https://www.autodesk.ch/de/products/fusion-360/overview?term=1-YEAR&tab=subscription
5. books about 3D printing
Books are a great way to expand the knowledge and skills of a 3D printing enthusiast. There are a variety of books on 3D printing that deal with different aspects of this technology. From beginner's guides to advanced techniques, gift your 3D printing enthusiast a book or two that will inspire and inform them.
6. 3D printing pen
A 3D printing pen is indeed a fun and creative gift for any 3D printing enthusiast. It offers a unique way to create three-dimensional objects freehand. Here are two main reasons why a 3D printing pen makes an excellent gift:
- Encouraging creativity and experimentation:
- Freehand drawing in 3D: In contrast to traditional 3D printing, which relies on digital models, the 3D printing pen enables the spontaneous and intuitive creation of 3D objects. Users can draw directly in the air, opening up a new level of artistic freedom.
- Creating unique works of art: A 3D printing pen can be used to create individual, sculptural works of art. It is ideal for making decorative objects, art projects or even practical items.
- Simple operation and versatility:
- Ease of use: 3D printing pens are generally easy to use, which makes them attractive to both beginners and experienced 3D printing enthusiasts. They offer a great way to learn the basics of 3D printing in a fun way.
- Versatile application possibilities: In addition to creating new objects, 3D printing pens can also be used to repair or modify existing 3D printed objects. They offer an extra dimension to the 3D printing hobby.
A high-quality 3D printing pen as a gift can open the door to a whole new world of 3D printing and artistic design. It is an exciting tool that is not only fun to use, but also encourages the recipient's creative streak and craftsmanship.
Fusion 3D printing pen (Digitec): https://www.digitec.ch/de/s1/product/fusion-3d-druck-stift-stift-3d-drucker-zubehoer-21106214
7. 3D printing service voucher
A voucher for a 3D printing service like Swiss3D is an excellent gift for 3D printing enthusiasts. Swiss3D offers access to over 50 different processes and materials and uses industrial printers to create high-quality prints at very fair prices. This voucher allows the recipient to have their own 3D models printed by professionals, which is particularly useful if they:
- Want to print complex designs: Some designs are too complex for conventional home 3D printers. A professional service can print such models with higher accuracy and quality.
- Seeking access to special materials: Swiss3D offers a wide range of materials that go beyond what normal 3D printers can use.
- Want to realize large objects: Printing larger objects often requires industrial printers, which Swiss3D provides.
- Find a cost-effective solution: Instead of investing in expensive equipment, the voucher gives you access to professional printing services at fair prices.
Such a voucher is not only a practical gift, but also allows the recipient to expand their 3D printing skills and capabilities, making it a particularly valuable gift for any 3D printing enthusiast.
Link to the Swiss3D voucher: https://swiss3d.ch/gutschein
Conclusion
With these 7 gift ideas, you can be sure you'll make a 3D printing enthusiast happy. Whether it's a high-quality filament, tool set or 3D printing pen, these gifts will boost their creativity and enhance their 3D printing experience. Choose the perfect gift and make a 3D printing enthusiast's eyes light up.