Your workspace as a 3D printer hobbyist is likely to be cluttered. Too many cables, an assortment of tools, and never enough desk space. It’s a familiar struggle that we’ve all been through. Optimizing your workspace is crucial for establishing a workflow that makes your 3D printing process as effective and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re a beginner to the hobby or a professional, 3D printed pegboard accessories are the easiest solution to the organizational problems we all struggle with.
Below, we’re sharing the features to look for when designing pegboard accessories, which materials to use, and how to design your own custom 3D printed pegboard accessories.
Why You Should 3D Print Your Workspace Tools
Everyone works a little differently, and your workspace reflects that. 3D printing allows you to create fully customizable storage, maximizing every inch of space. You can create a workspace that is designed around the specific tools that you use, and these designs can easily be modified or reprinted over time. Once you have a 3D printer and filament, it’s typically more affordable to create your own 3D printed pegboard accessories than to buy the generic, mass-produced alternatives.
There are dozens of 3d printed pegboard accessories that can be purpose-built for your workspace, including storage for filament tools, calipers, headphones, and gaming accessories. These custom-fit accessories are one of the best ways to save space with your pegboards and streamline your workspace set-up.
What Makes a Good 3D Printed Pegboard Accessory?
Not all 3D printed pegboard accessories are made equally – or fit for purpose. If you have a smaller workspace for your 3D printer, it’s important that every pegboard accessory is functional and fit-for-purpose. There are 3 main factors to consider when 3D printing pegboard accessories:
1. Strong Mounting Design
Choosing a strong mounting design is crucial, and many beginners make the mistake of focusing too much on the holder itself, rather than the peg system. The peg design is typically the most complicated part of creating reliable pegboard accessories. You’ll want to consider the weight distribution and proper peg spacing, as well as determining the best way to securely insert the peg into the board.
2. Print Orientation Matters
Print orientation is important when creating pegboard accessories, as layer lines can weaken the hooks. Choosing the wrong print orientation can increase the risk of the peg breaking and damaging your workspace or 3D printer. It’s best to print the hooks on their side when possible and use stronger wall counts.
3. Choosing the Right Material
PLA is one of the most popular choices for 3D printed pegboard accessories. It’s easy to print and ideal for light-duty accessories. If you need a more durable alternative, PETG is another great option that will make your pegboard accessories more impact-resistant. More advanced 3D printer hobbyists and professionals may prefer to opt for ABS or ASA especially if their workplace is in a higher-temperature environment.
Essential 3D Printed Pegboard Accessories for Every Workspace
Some 3D printed pegboard accessories are more practical than others, usually by being multi-purpose. The best pegboard accessories to start with are the ones that will immediately reduce your workspace clutter and help you become more organized. Here are 5 pegboard accessories to start with:
1. Tool Holders
You can instantly free up drawer space by adding tool holders to a pegboard. It’ll give you faster access to tools while working and make it easier to see what tools you have to work with. Most 3D printed tool holders are the right size for screwdrivers, pliers, hex keys, and wrenches.
2. Cable Management Clips
Cable management clips are a great addition to a pegboard as they’re simple to print and highly customizable. You can use them for USB cables, charging cords, and printer cables to reduce clutter and prevent cables from tangling.
3. Headphone Mounts
If your desk is also used as a gaming setup or as part of a home office, a headphone mount can keep your workspace tidy. Relatively easy to print, these headphone mounts can be designed as a single holder or dual headset rack with the option for an integrated cable hook.
4. Shelf Attachments
Adding shelf attachments is the easier way to maximize the surface space that you have to work with. These additional shelves can be used for everyday items like battery packs and small electronics. There are several design variations that you can choose from, including reinforced shelves for heavier items and angled shelves for pegboard corners.
5. Phone & Tablet Holders
One of the fastest ways to upgrade your desk is by adding 3D printed phone and tablet holders. You can keep your device charging while using it and even convert your tablet into a mini TV. This 3D printed pegboard accessory is a must-have for content creators, designers, and engineers.
Workshop Pegboard Accessories You Can 3D Print
If you have a workshop, rather than a conventional office, then your desk space is even more important. You can upgrade your workspace organization with add-ons like caliper holders for measuring tools and drill bit organizers for faster tool changes and better workflow. Socket holders can also make your workshop more efficient, especially when organized by size.
If you have a Creality 3D printer then filament tool storage is a must-have for your desk setup. You can create separate storage tubs for tools like nozzles, scrapers, side cutters, cleaning needles, and Allen keys.
Designing Your Own Custom Pegboard Accessories
The best way to optimize your pegboard is by creating 3D printed accessories that are customized to its size and designed to suit your wider workspace. Start by taking measurements of your pegboard, including the hole diameter, spacing, and board thickness. These measurements will reduce waste and ensure your pegboard accessories fit.
Modular designs are the perfect starting point for customizing your pegboard accessories. They make upgrades easier by supporting faster prototyping. Doing a prototype, at least of the mounting sections, before final printing will help save filament and ensure your 3D printed accessory fits your pegboard.
Best Print Settings for Pegboard Accessories
Most pegboard accessories will be best suited to a layer height of 0.22 mm with a wall count of 3-5. Infill settings will typically be 20-40% for most accessories but should be higher for tool holders.
The best material for your 3D printed pegboard accessories will depend on their intended use. PLA is suitable for most office use, while PETG is better suited for workshops, and ASA should be used in hotter environments, including garages.
Common Mistakes To Avoid When Printing Pegboard Accessories
Pegboard accessories might seem like straightforward 3D models, but it’s easy to make mistakes, even for more experienced hobbyist. Poor layer orientation and thin connection points can lead to weak hook designs.
It’s also important to remember that different pegboards use different spacing standards, so double-check your pegboard’s measurements before printing. If your pegboard accessories are intended to hold heavy tools, you’ll want to avoid using a material like PLA, which can deform over time.
Build a 3D Printer Workspace That Actually Works for You
3D printing makes it easy to upgrade your desk and workspace organization with customized pegboard accessories. With better organization and a cleaner workspace, you’ll have a faster workflow with less clutter.
Whether you’re a content creator, gamer, or someone who works from home, 3D printed pegboard accessories can be customized to your individual needs. Start building your fully customized workspace by exploring the latest Creality printers and filaments to bring your 3D projects to life.