Since getting a 3D printer, I've been obsessed with printing all of the cool things I stumble across on MakerWorld. I've printed model bridges, cars, server racks (more on that in a separate article 👀), video game mementos, and more. Naturally, I've also printed several desk upgrades to make my life a little bit easier.
This article won't mention Gridfinity, but I've used it extensively in my setup. It's wonderful, and I love it. I just think it's somewhat "expected" at this point.
Some of the designs featured in this article are either A) designed by me or B) require a paid membership/purchase to access. Regardless, each model will be clearly marked as such. Also, none of the Amazon links are affilate links.
1) Underware Cable Management
Forgive me if I've mentioned this before, but this has, without question, been the biggest life changer in my setup since getting my 3D printer. I've opted for the openGrid variation, and once I screwed the frames into the bottom of my desk, I went nuts with the modules/covers. It's oddly satisfying to print the parts, not just assemble the grid!
Once you get the grid and modules printed, the next bit of fun comes when running cables and designing the raceways. It's ridiculously fun. A piece of advice, though: avoid using the openGrid Lite frames, if possible. I've found the modules don't hold as well as when they're connected to the standard frame.
Underware and openGrid can be found on MakerWorld.
2) Desk Shelf Legs (mine)
One of my first designs, these replacement desk shelf legs help raise my desk shelf, the Aothia Dual Monitor Stand, from its standard height to a level that accommodates my Mac Studio and SSD enclosure/USB-C hub. The design has two versions, one with a divider and one without, both of which just slide into place.
Designing the legs was a bit of a maddening experience, but it was a valuable lesson in revisions and, as corny as it is, not giving up.
Desk Shelf Legs for Mac Studio can be found on MakerWorld.
3) HDMI Switch Holder (mine)
One of my more recent, simpler designs, this holder is designed for my compact HDMI switcher. It features a basic housing with simple cutouts for each of the ports, as well as an openGrid connector for mounting to an openGrid...grid. After some initial issues with screen flickering, it's been smooth sailing since. The design works perfectly for what I need, which is just a simple HDMI switch holder (hence the name 😉).
Simple HDMI Switch Holder can be found on MakerWorld.
4) Magnetic Cable Chain
This is one of the more "obsessive" prints on the list, but I hate cables. I'm not unique in my dislike, but I've taken great measures to hide cables as much as possible. Since getting a sit/stand desk, I've looked for ways to avoid having ugly cables dangling from my desk. The obvious solution was some kind of cable chain, but they're hilariously overpriced for what they are. So the next best thing was to print one!
This print took ages, and setting it up took even longer. In fact, it still isn't perfect, but it houses the main cables coming from my desk and goes to the wall. The rest of the area...well...needs some work, but the cable chain has done its job surprisingly well.
Several cable chain models can be found on MakerWorld.
5) File Cabinet Feet (mine)
My most recent design, these are meant to replace the casters on my old desk drawer unit.
After a few good years, I noticed the one caster had completely snapped. Since my office is carpet, I decided to search for feet rather than replacement casters. Then, for some reason, I decided to try to design and print them instead. This was one of the designs where my first attempt worked perfectly. It's a little snug, but they fit with a little wiggle, and do the job exactly as they're supposed to. I designed two versions, a squared version and a rounded version, so there's a style for anyone.
File Cabinet Feet can be found on MakerWorld.
6) Large Desk Lamp (paid)
A model from YouTuber/designer Scott Yu-Jan, this lamp came to be after several weekend searches across my entire county. Rather than pay for something overpriced on Amazon, I decided to search for a 3D printable option. I remembered watching Scott's videos and being enamored with his designs, so I decided to purchase his membership and print one of his designs, the Large Lamp. It's fantastic, and it's exactly the design I was looking for to tie in the new setup.
To make the lamp, I purchased a light socket from my local Home Depot, as well as a smart bulb. I then printed the lamp and assembled it. The design is quite intuitive and I managed to get it working without any instructions. From there, I set up the light on my IoT network, and that project was complete.
The Large Lamp variant can be printed by becoming a member of Scott Yu-Jan's Patreon or YouTube channel.
Bonus: A New Drawer Unit
I briefly mentioned it above, but since my old drawer unit was beginning to show its age, and because I wanted a bit more room for activities, I decided to pick up a new drawer unit. It provides a decent improvement in surface area, and also includes two outlets and two USB ports for easy charging/power. In fact, that's where the lamp from Scott Yu-Jan is currently residing!
To Conclude...
Having a 3D printer has truly opened up a world of desk upgrades and improvements that I never knew were possible. It may have created a smidge of an obsession, but I can't get enough. In fact, the entire reason this article exists is because I've been on a 3D printing binge lately. And I hope it continues long, long into the future.
Until next time, Nick out.
Header image sourced from Unsplash.com