10 Creative Ways to Repurpose Your Old 3D Printed Models
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3D printing has become an increasingly popular technology, allowing individuals to bring their digital designs to life. Over time, however, you may find yourself accumulating a collection of old 3D printed models that are no longer being used or have lost their novelty. Instead of letting them gather dust on a shelf, consider repurposing them in creative and innovative ways. In this article, we will explore ten exciting ways to give your old 3D printed models new life.
1. Customized Keychains
Transform your old 3D printed models into unique and personalized keychains. Simply attach a keyring or chain to your model, and voila! You have a one-of-a-kind accessory for your keys. You can paint your model, add embellishments, or even incorporate functional elements such as bottle openers or USB drives. It's a practical and stylish way to repurpose your old models.
2. Planters or Vases
Repurposing your 3D printed models as planters or vases adds a touch of creativity to your indoor or outdoor space. Depending on the size of your model, you can place small succulents, herbs, or flowers inside. Consider painting your model with vibrant colors or adding intricate patterns to make it a statement piece in your home or garden.
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3. Decorative Bookends
Old 3D printed models can be transformed into decorative bookends to organize and display your books in style. Attach your models to heavy bases or bookend brackets to create sturdy supports. You can paint or modify the models to match your decor theme or opt for a contrasting look to make a bold statement.
4. Jewelry and Accessories
Repurposing your old 3D printed models into jewelry and accessories allows you to express your creativity and showcase your unique style. Use your models as pendants for necklaces, charms for bracelets, or even earrings. Apply different finishing techniques such as painting, polishing, or adding gemstones to create eye-catching pieces that reflect your personal taste.
5. Wall Art
Turn your old 3D printed models into captivating wall art to adorn your living spaces. Arrange a collection of smaller models in a visually pleasing pattern and mount them on a backing board or frame. Alternatively, you can upscale a larger model as a striking centerpiece for a gallery wall. Experiment with different paint finishes or incorporate LED lighting to enhance the visual impact.
6. Desk Organizers
Transform your old 3D printed models into functional desk organizers to declutter your workspace. Depending on the design of your model, you can use it to hold pens, paper clips, USB drives, or any other small office supplies. You can also combine multiple models to create a multi-tiered organizer for efficient storage.
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7. Mobile Phone Stands
Repurpose your 3D printed models as stylish mobile phone stands to keep your device upright while charging or watching videos. Customize the design to accommodate different phone sizes and add features like cable management. You can even make adjustable stands with movable parts to suit your preferred viewing angle.
8. Drawer Knobs
Give your furniture a unique and personalized touch by replacing standard drawer knobs with your old 3D printed models. Whether it's a whimsical creature, a geometric shape, or an intricate design, these customized knobs will add character and charm to your cabinets, dressers, or desks. Consider painting or finishing the models to match your decor.
9. Wall Hooks
Reimagine your old 3D printed models as decorative wall hooks to hang coats, hats, scarves, or keys. Attach the models securely to a wall or wooden board, ensuring they can support the weight of the items. You can arrange them in a pattern or create a themed display that complements your space.
10. Game Pieces or Puzzle Components
If you have a collection of old 3D printed models, consider repurposing them as game pieces or puzzle components. Whether it's chess pieces, board game characters, or even unique puzzles, your models can add a personal touch to your gaming experience. Paint or customize them to match the theme of the game or puzzle for added immersion.
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Don't let your old 3D printed models go to waste. With a little creativity and some DIY spirit, you can repurpose them into functional, decorative, or artistic items that bring joy and uniqueness to your everyday life. Explore these ten creative ideas or let them inspire you to come up with your own innovative ways to give your old 3D printed models a new purpose. Happy repurposing!
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