This time of year can be crazy if you plan on running around shopping for Christmas gifts, but what if there was a way to add a personal touch while avoiding the tortuous holiday lines? 3D printing is a beneficial tool because it allows you to create nearly anything you wish, making it ideal for giving friends and loved ones some outstanding gifts.
The top 10 free designs
Beer Ring – Some of you may have that friend or family member that opens bottled refreshments with a wedding band or ring of choice, but now you can give them a purpose built tool that is sure to impress.
Cookie Cutter – Making delicious cookies is a holiday staple and what better way to celebrate both the holidays and baking than with a custom cookie cutter. You can design any shape you want from a heart to a gingerbread man.
iPhone Case – What better way to say you love someone than to make them a case for their iPhone. The design below is for the iPhone 5s, but intrepid makers can 3D scan and create cases for the current 6 and 6s models. You may also find several more designs available for purchase and download here.
Toothpaste Squeezer – While this may not be the best looking gift you could give, it certainly is useful and gets the most out of a tube of toothpaste; plus kids may think it’s fun!
Star Wars Lightsaber Candle Holder – Give the Star Wars fan in your life the coolest candle holders this side of a galaxy has seen. Just be sure not to use them for an impromptu battle while the candles are lit.
Apple TV Remote Case – If you know of someone fortunate enough to have the new Apple TV, then this gift is going to be perfect. It will cocoon the aluminum and glass in a protective bit of plastic and for a fraction of the standard $80 cost!
Pixel Tree Topper/Menorah – Everyone who has a Christmas tree needs a topper and the star from Mario Bros is as good as any. For those who celebrate Hanukkah, there are also a few modern Menorah designs.
Thumb War Ring – Do you remember those epic yet unsanctioned battles of thumb war you had when you were young? I’m sure you do; they may have even ended in a stalemate. With this device, you can now have them in a proper ring just as they were meant to be.
Snowball Maker – The 3D printed snowball maker is perfect for engaging in a snowball fight. The problem with creating snowballs is that long rounds can often cause cold and numb hands, but with this new tool, your problem is solved – you’ll have the perfect snowball every time.
Raspberry Pi Case – This one is for the maker in your household and is an ideal device to give your Raspberry Pi some actual protection with a touch of style.
Aside from the ideas listed above, more creative 3D printed gadgets can be found at makerbot.com and grabcad.com.
By Aaron LaBarbera
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