Create personalized desk organizers using 3D printing. Master 3DP techniques to design and print organizers for office supplies, cables, and gadgets.
3D Print Custom Desk Organizers
A cluttered desk can make it difficult to focus and get work done. With 3D printing, you can design and print custom desk organizers that fit your specific workspace needs. Whether you need a holder for pens, cables, or gadgets, this guide will show you how to master 3DP techniques to create efficient, personalized desk organizers.
Step 1: Planning Your Desk Organizer
Before diving into design, think about the specific items you want to organize and where the organizer will sit on your desk.
A. Assess Your Workspace
Take note of the items you regularly use, such as pens, sticky notes, cables, flash drives, or charging stations. Measure these items to create custom compartments that fit perfectly.
B. Organizing Strategy
Decide whether you want a single large organizer or a series of smaller modular trays that can be rearranged as needed. Consider if the organizer should have slots for cables, holders for devices like phones, or trays for small office supplies.
Step 2: Designing the Organizer in CAD Software
Once you know what you need to organize, start designing the desk organizer in CAD software.
A. Basic Structure
Create a base tray with compartments of varying sizes for your supplies. Add walls to separate the compartments and make sure each section has enough space for the items it will hold.
B. Custom Features
Add slots for vertical items like pens or rulers, angled slots for sticky notes, and hooks for cable management. You can also design phone or tablet stands as part of the organizer.
C. Modular Design
If you want flexibility, design modular pieces that can be connected or rearranged. These pieces can snap together or sit flush against each other, allowing you to expand your organization system as needed.
Step 3: Preparing for 3D Printing
After completing your design, it’s time to prepare the file for printing.
A. Print Settings
Layer Height: A 0.2 mm layer height is ideal for desk organizers, providing enough detail for clean edges without taking too long to print.
Infill: Use 20-30% infill for most organizers. For heavy items like phones or tablets, you may want to increase the infill for sturdier holders.
Supports: If your design includes overhangs, such as phone stands or cable hooks, enable support structures to ensure a clean print.
Step 4: Choosing the Right Filament
The filament you choose will depend on the function and aesthetic of the desk organizer.
A. PLA for Basic Organizers
PLA is easy to print and comes in a wide variety of colors. It’s perfect for organizing light items like pens, sticky notes, and USB drives.
B. PETG for Durability
For heavier-duty organizers, especially those holding electronics or heavier gadgets, PETG offers extra strength and flexibility.
C. ABS for Extra Strength
If you need a very durable organizer for heavy items or want a more professional look, ABS is a great option. Just make sure your printer has a heated bed to handle ABS printing.
Step 5: Post-Processing and Assembly
After printing, some post-processing may be necessary.
A. Sanding and Smoothing
Sand down rough edges, especially around compartment dividers or small slots, to ensure a smooth finish.
B. Assembling the Organizer
If you’ve designed a modular organizer, snap the pieces together or place them side-by-side. For single-piece organizers, test-fit your items to make sure everything fits correctly.
Step 6: Customizing and Using the Organizer
Once assembled, you can customize your organizer further.
A. Adding Labels
Use labels to mark specific compartments, especially if you’re organizing small items like paperclips, staples, or pins.
B. Testing for Fit
Place all your desk items in the organizer and make sure each fits comfortably. Adjust the design if needed and reprint for the perfect fit.
3D printing allows you to design and create desk organizers that perfectly match your workspace and organizational style. By mastering 3DP techniques, you can produce custom organizers that help you stay tidy, productive, and efficient in your work environment. Whether it’s a modular system, a sleek single-piece organizer, or a multi-functional desk accessory, 3D printing offers endless possibilities for personalization.
