8 Best Unique Ideas for 3D Printed Gifts

With the multitude of gift options available today, the opportunities for gift-giving are seemingly endless. However, nothing beats a gift with a personalized touch! If you're looking for the most inspired gifts to give this holiday season, perhaps consider printing one yourself with a 3D printer! While a 3D printer might be a large investment, you will find it could end up paying for itself with the multitude of items you’ll be able to make for yourself and others. Below you will find some exciting ideas for customizable presents for your loved ones that can all be made with a 3D printer:

1. Fidget Spinners/Desk Toys

Fidget “toys” are all the rage this year, and they come in many different shapes and sizes. Many of us might be infamous for “fidgeting” throughout the day. That’s why it makes sense to have one of these on hand since these tools can be helpful in channeling one’s energy into a simple physical task. Their small and relatively simple shape make them a perfect 3D printing project for the “fidgeter” in your life!

2. Laser-Embossed Wooden Wallet

A minimalist, slim multi-pocket wallet could be the perfect gift for any special occasion. Whether it's a wedding or Father's Day or an anniversary, a custom-made wallet will certainly delight your recipient. Maybe try a sleek look to impress those with refined, modern taste.Plus, the fact that its 3D printed with an engraved name or specialized image would be an extra plus.

3. Jewelry

Handmade 3D printed jewelry is an exciting, highly customizable option with millions of potential embellishments just waiting to be printed into existence!From necklaces to bracelets to earrings, one-of-a-kind designs can easily be pressed specially for your family, friends, and loved ones. All you need to do is find a short module online to learn the basics, and you're now ready to print as many jewelry pieces as you like.

4. Customized Keychains

Who can’t use some keyring bling? Many people carry their car, house, and other keys around on keychains each day and some like to throw in some extra decorative ones for fun! You could 3D print your recipient’s name in a special font or their favorite symbol or image; the possibilities are endless! Cute, unique keychains are an attention grabber that your loved one will be sure to treasure.

5. Home Decorations

With the holidays right around the corner, ornaments are a great option for a tailor-made gift that can be crafted to fit the receiver’s individual tastes and personality. There’s no reason not to creatively experiment in 3D-printed decorative products! You could engrave your gift recipient's nameto make sure that your gift is as unique as the person you’re giving it to. Obviously, ornaments aren’t your only option. Paper weights, tiny cactus or succulent planters, or simple accents can all be manufactured in your own home.

6. Phone/Device Stands

Smart phone and tablet stands are a cost-effective idea for your 3D printing project. Because they can be fairly simple in design, you can make many without burning through all of your filament. To assist the effort, there's a limitless number of fonts, designs, and decals that you can add to your stand to make sure that each one stands out. No pun intended.

7. Chess Set

A chess set might be an ambitious item to attempt with a 3D printer, but you can do it with the right guide. It may take a bit more time, but it is a definite way to show your loved one how much you care for them, especially if they are a chess lover! Just make sure to watch a video module on how this is done to avoid mistakes.

8. Vase

Who doesn’t love a good vase? A vase is a relatively simplistic item that can be modified in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. A vase can be filled with real or fake flowers, string lights, marbles, or any number of decorative items, making it a perfect gift for a loved one, and a fun and fairly simple project for your 3D printer. Store-bought vases can cost a great deal, so printing one yourself may end up being the more economical choice for your holiday budget. Because it's cheaper, it may also mean that you can give away even more gifts!

Obviously, the advent and rising popularity of 3D printing has created a surplus of ideas for many industries and aspects of life, gift-giving included. Don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild with ideas for what you can print. The high degree of customization available in printing your own products or gifts promises to give you something sure to make your loved ones smile, whatever the occasion!

Olivia Warfield is a contributing writer and media relations specialist for American Paper Optics. She writes for a variety of technology and digital development blogs and is especially interested in the rising prominence of 3D technology for both business and recreation.