15 Fun and Functional 3D Prints for Beginners

Are you new to 3D printing and wondering what to print first? Building experience with simple yet engaging projects can pave the way for more complex creations down the line. Whether you're starting out or a seasoned printer looking for a refresher, this list of 3D prints is curated to offer a mix of fun, functionality, and skill-building opportunities.

Why Start with Simple Prints?

Before diving into intricate designs like clockwork dragons, mastering basic prints can help you hone your skills and build confidence with your 3D printer. From testing tolerances to exploring new techniques, these beginner-friendly projects provide valuable experience for both novices and veterans in the world of 3D printing.

Multi-Purpose Container

Designed by Zeus and his Beard, this versatile container serves as an excellent introductory print.
Ideal for testing bridging and tolerances, it offers a quick and functional project to kickstart your 3D printing journey.

Tabletop Condition Indicators

Create these handy markers by The Luke C to track conditions like concentration during tabletop games.
Perfect for experimenting with full build plate printing and assessing bed adhesion, these indicators offer a practical and straightforward print.

Orc Minis from "Print Minis"

Discover supportless minis from "Print Minis," such as the three orcs, tailored for FDM printers.
These prints strike a balance between printability and detail, making them an excellent choice for beginners venturing into miniature printing.

Bugbear Miniature by Artisan Guild

Test your FDM printer's stringing detail with this supportless bugbear mini by Artisan Guild, available for free.
Ideal for refining your printing settings and exploring intricate designs, this mini is a valuable addition to your test print collection.

Life Counter for Tabletop Games

Print this countdown life counter by Scotamus to add an immersive element to your gaming sessions.
While assembling this counter might pose a challenge, the project offers an opportunity to refine your tolerance for intricate prints with mechanical components.

Intriguing Dice Towers

Dive into the world of dice rolling with unique dice tower designs, such as the “Fates and Fortunes Dice Tower” by Kim Bolt.
Challenge yourself to print longer projects like dice towers to expand your printing skills and overcome the fear of complex, time-intensive prints.

Barrel Can Holder

Toast to your printing accomplishments with a barrel can holder by Ours Maureen D, a practical and visually appealing addition to your game night.
This easy-to-print project emphasizes durability and aesthetics, providing a functional piece for your tabletop setup.

Enhancing Immersion with Free Prints

For an immersive tabletop experience, incorporating free 3D prints into your gaming arsenal can elevate the ambiance and storytelling at your table. From terrain elements to thematic props, these prints offer a gateway to creative exploration.

Versatile Tree Designs

Access free tree models like the one from Lost Adventures to enhance your tabletop scenery effortlessly.
Opt for intricate or minimalist tree designs based on your aesthetic preferences, and witness how these prints transform your gaming environment.

Rocks and Ruins for Terrain

Explore texture-rich rock and ruin models from Makers Anvil, perfect for adding a touch of rugged terrain to your tabletop setting.
These free, beginner-friendly prints serve as building blocks for crafting immersive scenes and settings for your tabletop adventures.

Dungeon-themed Prints

Delve into dungeon-themed prints like the Click-Lock Dungeon Tiles by Dandruff, offering a quick and charming alternative to traditional dungeon tiles.
For a more organic feel, experiment with Dungeon Sticks for versatile room layouts and terrain elements that can adapt to various gaming scenarios.

Conclusion

Embarking on a 3D printing journey opens up a realm of creative possibilities, from functional tools to immersive game accessories. By starting with accessible prints that focus on skill development and enjoyment, you can pave the way for more ambitious projects in the future. Experiment, learn, and most importantly, have fun as you explore the endless potential of 3D printing in tabletop gaming.

Meet Tripo

Discover the capabilities of Tripo and unlock a world of possibilities:

Draft Model Generation: Instantly spark inspiration with our fastest models. Perfect for rapid prototyping and conceptualization, this feature lets you explore various designs or perspectives before diving into detailed modeling. Accepts both text and image input.
Refine Draft Models: Elevate the quality of your initial draft models into finely detailed creations. Seamlessly transition from conceptual drafts to high-resolution models, streamlining your creative workflow.
Model Animation: Bring your creations to life with automated animation. Transform static models into dynamic animations, enhancing presentations or digital experiences effortlessly.
Stylization and Conversion: Customize and convert your models with unparalleled ease. From transforming models into lego-like or voxel-based versions to supporting format conversion (USDZ or FBX), Tripo offers unique stylization options, ensuring compatibility across platforms and applications while injecting a creative twist into your projects.