3D printing is a fun and rewarding hobby, but with it also comes the frustrations of trying to maintain the quality output of your printer and also tidying up the finished look of your prints. You need a host of tools to keep the process running smoothly.
Some manufacturers throw a few cheap tools in the box with a new 3D printer, but if they don't, then investing in a dedicated 3D printer toolkit will make a huge difference in caring for not only your 3D printer, but also your creations.
We've trawled through the Amazon Prime Big Deal Days sales event and used our expert knowledge to source the tools you absolutely need for your 3D printing toolkit.
Quick links
This 74-piece 3D printer tool kit from Creality is packed with everything that you need to keep your printer going. This toolkit has everything from a 34-piece screwdriver set to a magnetic project mat. Perfect for a budding 3D printer enthusiast, this is a "one and done" purchase.
Essential cutting tools
Whether you are cutting your filament, cleaning out supports, or removing cable ties, wire/flush/side cutters are an essential part of the 3D printer toolkit. Sometimes you get a pair with your printer, but if you don't, or you need a spare set, then this pair of snips is a good alternative for you.
These cheap cutters are superb for 3D printing, electronics, and some general home maintenance tasks. Model makers and electronics hobbyists can also use these cutters to trim parts of dried knots and dribbles.
Hex Keys
Hex keys are essential 3D printer tools. The majority of 3D printers are held together by machine screws that sport an Allen / hex head. If you don't get a set with your printer, it's not too much money to buy a spare set off Amazon.
When the prints don't pop off the plate
A 3D printer's print beds are designed to be super grippy, so the side effect is that sometimes you may need to use a tool to persuade the print to release from the print sheet. Scrapers are superb tools for the job, with the thin metal blades perfect for breaking the seal between the print and the build plate!
Screwdrivers
A good general-purpose precision screwdriver set is a necessity. This 49-in-1 set isn't on sale, but it has all the bits and is super cheap. For higher quality, you can step up to the HOTO driver, albeit with fewer bits, or go all in on an electric screwdriver.
Unclog or change your 3D printer nozzle
3D printers will get clogged at some point; that's a 100% guarantee. Hot plastic or the wrong type of filament being used at the wrong temps will mess up the most expensive printers. Luckily, the solution to this common problem is a very low-cost one.
Swapping out the nozzle on your 3D printer is also a fairly simple task, but that task is made far easier with the right tools.
Clean up your prints
Take your prints to the next level by giving them a professional finish. Clean up the edges of your projects and remove leftover bits of print support with this handy deburring tool.
Shine a light on it
Perfect for performing repairs in the tight spaces of an enclosed 3D printer, or for attaching to a cap to light up the project you're working on and highlight any print deformities that may need addressing. With 1800 Lumens of light, USB Type-C charging, an IP68 rating, a baseball cap clip, and a magnetic base, this is a great flashlight for working on 3D printing projects.
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