A 3D printer can be a worthwhile investment for people whose hobbies rely on replacement parts, custom tools or specialty accessories. Entry-level filament printers cost around $170, and a kilogram of filament typically costs about $20. Whether you save money depends on how often you print and what you would otherwise pay for each item. Libraries, maker spaces and online printing services can also offer a way to try the technology without buying a machine.<\/p>\n
Most home printers use fused deposition modeling (FDM), which melts plastic filament\u2014often PLA\u2014through a heated nozzle. Resin printers can produce finer details, but cost more. Here are five hobbies where printing useful items may help reduce expenses.<\/p>\n
A crash can mean replacing parts, and printing some of them may be cheaper and faster than ordering replacements. Camera mounts, antenna guards and arm protectors are possible candidates. Avoid printing flight-critical parts, such as propellers, for an expensive drone unless the material and design have been properly tested.<\/p>\n
Gardeners can print items such as plant labels, clips, planters, soil dibbers and bird feeders. In the garage, a printer can help replace hard-to-find interior trim, knobs and other small components, as well as make tool organizers and custom tools. Printing can be especially useful when a part is sold only in quantities larger than you need.<\/p>\n
Cable organizers, hub shelves, wall mounts and small replacement parts are practical prints for home automation. You can also create cases or buttons for NFC stickers, make signs that let guests connect to Wi-Fi, or build a custom frame for a home-control touchscreen. A tablet mount can be a lower-cost way to add a wall-based control panel.<\/p>\n
Lens caps, cable clamps and battery holders are among the accessories photographers may be able to print for less than branded replacements. Other options include battery plates, microphone and lighting mounts, selfie handles and compact tripods. Customizing a design can also help create a tool for a particular shot.<\/p>\n