Tested by Morgan Blake
10 Beginner 3D Prints That Actually Work (2025 Edition)
Updated October 2025
Just got your first 3D printer? First take a look at our guide on Getting Started with 3D Printing. Skip the failed dragons and start with these 10 beginner-friendly models that teach calibration, support removal, and material handling—while producing something you’ll actually use. Every project is printable with PLA or PETG and includes suggested settings and skill focus.
Why these prints matter
Choosing the right first projects keeps you learning—not frustrated. These ten models are all easy to slice, need little to no supports, and fit on standard 220×220 mm beds. Each teaches one calibration or skill so you gradually master your printer without wasting filament.
For a bigger gear overview before you start, see our Best 3D Printers.
Quick compare: skills & materials at a glance
| Project | Primary skill | Suggested material | Layer height | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calibration cube | Dimensional accuracy | PLA | 0.20 mm | Reprint after tweaks |
| Benchy | Cooling & overhangs | PLA | 0.20 mm | Inspect bridges & stringing |
| Cable clip | Small-part adhesion | PETG/PLA | 0.16 mm | Use brim |
| Filament guide | Simple strength | PLA | 0.20 mm | 4 walls, 40% infill |
| SD card holder | Tolerances | PLA | 0.15 mm | Label in slicer |
| Phone stand | Large angled prints | PLA/PETG | 0.20 mm | Brim for stability |
| Hex bit rack | Infill strength | PETG | 0.28 mm | Gyroid infill |
| Keychain tag | Text emboss / color swap | PLA | 0.16 mm | Pause at layer |
| Drawer knob | Thread fit & strength | PETG/TPU | 0.20 mm | 4 walls, 100% infill |
| Flexible cable chain | Print-in-place joints | PLA/PETG | 0.20 mm | ~0.15 mm clearance |
Top 10 beginner 3D prints (with lessons & settings)
1. Calibration Cube (20×20×20 mm)
Skill: Dimension accuracy & extrusion calibration.
Settings: 0.2 mm layer height, 100% infill, no supports. Print one in PLA after each major tweak.
2. Benchy (the calibration boat)
Skill: Cooling, bridging, and overhangs. A rite of passage for every maker.
Settings: PLA, 0.2 mm layer height, 2 walls, 20% infill, cooling 100%. Inspect stringing and layer lines.
3. Cable Clip / Wire Holder
Skill: Functional tolerances & bed adhesion for small parts.
Settings: PETG or PLA, 0.16 mm layer height, brim adhesion. Try PETG filament for flexibility.
4. Filament Guide / Spool Clip
Skill: Simple mechanical strength.
Settings: PLA, 0.2 mm, 4 walls, 40% infill. Mount near extruder to improve feed path. See our printer upgrades guide for feeder & path tips.
5. SD Card Holder
Skill: Dimensional precision & tolerances for slots.
Settings: PLA, 0.15 mm layer height, infill 15%, no supports. Add text labels in slicer.
6. Phone Stand
Skill: Large, angled prints & bed adhesion.
Settings: PLA or PETG, 0.2 mm, 15% infill. Use brim for stability. Optionally polish with 220-grit sandpaper.
Flexible build plates make removal easy.
7. Tool Holder / Hex Bit Rack
Skill: Infill pattern and durability testing.
Settings: PETG, 0.28 mm layer, 50% infill (gyroid). Try varied infill to see strength difference.
When you’re ready to push speed and quality, read our Klipper & input shaping guide.
8. Keychain Tag (with name)
Skill: Text embossing, color changes (optional).
Settings: PLA, 0.16 mm, pause at layer to swap color. Great first multi-color project.
9. Drawer Handle or Knob
Skill: Strength and dimensional tolerance for threaded parts.
Settings: PETG or TPU if flexibility desired, 4 walls, 100% infill.
10. Flexible Cable Chain (print-in-place)
Skill: Clearance & print-in-place joints.
Settings: PLA or PETG, 0.2 mm, ~0.15 mm tolerance gap. Demonstrates print accuracy and slicer clearance.
All files are available free on community sites like Printables.com or Thingiverse. Always credit creators when sharing.
Next step: Turn your skills into real projects. Try these:
Common 3D Printing Mistakes (and fixes) • 3D Printing Business Ideas
Printing & finishing tips
- Use PLA first—it’s forgiving, cheap, and shows detail clearly.
- Keep your filament dry in a sealed container with silica gel.
- Print test objects near the center of the bed first to confirm leveling before edge prints.
- Post-process gently—start sanding with 220 grit and move up for smooth finish.
FAQ
What filament should I use for these prints?
PLA for all except flexible or high-strength parts. For durability, switch to PETG once you’ve dialed in temps and bed adhesion.
Why are my first layers still rough?
Recheck Z offset and bed leveling. Refer to our calibration guide.
How long will these take?
Most prints complete within 30 minutes to 3 hours—ideal weekend projects.
