Build A DIY 3D Printer Under $20

Aug 14, 2025 by Lucas 33 views

I made DIY 3D printer under $20

Hey everyone, ever dreamt of having your own 3D printer but balked at the price tag? Well, buckle up, because today, we're diving deep into the world of DIY 3D printing – and not just any DIY, but a super-budget-friendly build that clocks in at under $20! I know, I know, it sounds crazy, but trust me, with a little ingenuity and some clever sourcing, you can totally make this happen. We're going to build a super cool DIY 3D printer. So, in this article, we'll break down the entire process, from gathering the necessary components to assembling and calibrating your very own budget-friendly 3D printing machine. This is not going to be your typical, high-precision printer. We're talking about a fun, educational project that's perfect for beginners and anyone curious about how 3D printing works without breaking the bank. This article provides a detailed guide, ensuring you can follow along step-by-step and experience the satisfaction of creating something tangible with your own hands. It's a chance to explore the world of additive manufacturing, learn about the different components and how they interact, and customize your printer to your specific needs. Let's get started!

The Quest for Affordable 3D Printing

So, why the obsession with a sub-$20 3D printer? The primary reason is accessibility. Traditional 3D printers can be quite expensive, putting them out of reach for many hobbyists, students, and even educators. My goal was to make 3D printing accessible to everyone, regardless of their budget. Building a 3D printer yourself is a fantastic way to understand the technology and learn about its inner workings. You'll gain hands-on experience with the different components, such as the extruder, the hot end, the heated bed, and the control board. You'll also get familiar with the software used to slice and print your models. The process of building a 3D printer can be incredibly rewarding. It's a hands-on learning experience. You'll also learn about troubleshooting and problem-solving. Moreover, building your own 3D printer allows you to customize it to your specific needs and preferences. You can choose the materials, the size, and the features that best suit your projects. It's a fun and educational project that's perfect for beginners and anyone curious about how 3D printing works without breaking the bank. In this guide, we'll show you how to build your own 3D printer for under $20. We'll go through the necessary components, the assembly process, and the software you'll need to get started. Let's begin!

Sourcing the Components: The Budget-Friendly Shopping List

Alright, guys, let's get down to the nitty-gritty: the components! Remember, the key here is to keep costs down while still getting functional parts. This is where a little bit of creativity and resourcefulness comes into play. The core of this printer will be built using materials that are readily available and, most importantly, affordable. Forget about high-end components; we're going for maximum functionality with minimal investment. Now, let's dive into what you'll need. The following list is designed to give you an overview of what you'll need. Please note that prices may vary depending on your location and the supplier. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need for our DIY 3D printer:

Hot Glue Gun: This is a MUST-HAVE. It's going to be the primary tool for assembling and securing many of the components. A basic hot glue gun is super cheap, and you can probably snag one for a few bucks at your local dollar store or online. Make sure you have plenty of glue sticks!
Pencil: This will be your primary material that will be used as the structure of the printer. Choose the right pencil for the right situation.
Stepper motors: You'll need at least two, maybe three, depending on how you design your printer. These are the motors that will control the movement of the print head. If you are reusing old printers or electronics, you might already have some lying around. If not, check online marketplaces.
Control board: This is the brain of the operation. It will take the instructions from the computer and tell the motors what to do. Consider using an Arduino with a CNC shield, which is a popular and affordable option. You can also source these from online marketplaces.
Extruder: The extruder pushes the filament through the hot end. Again, you can try to scavenge parts from old printers or electronics or order a basic one online.
Hot end: The hot end melts the filament. Sourcing this part can be a bit tricky on a super-tight budget. Check for used or repurposed options.
Power supply: Any power supply that can provide the necessary voltage and amperage will work. Be sure to check your stepper motors' specifications. Old computer power supplies are great for this. Safety first, though; be careful when working with electricity.
Various wires and connectors: for electrical connections. It's always a good idea to have a little bit of extra wiring.

Remember, shop around, compare prices, and don't be afraid to look for used or repurposed components. The goal is to find the most affordable options without sacrificing functionality. Sometimes, you might need to get creative and use alternative materials. This is where you'll unleash your innovative side. Let the hunt begin!

Assembling Your Budget 3D Printer

Alright, let's get our hands dirty and start putting this thing together! The assembly process is where the fun truly begins, and it's where your resourcefulness will shine. We're not aiming for perfection here; we're aiming for functionality. Remember, this is a DIY project, and you're expected to get your hands dirty. Here's a general overview of the assembly process, but keep in mind that your design may differ based on the components you've sourced:

Building the Frame: Your frame will support the entire structure. Pencils are used as the frame; the hot glue gun is your best friend here. Secure the pieces with hot glue. The frame's size will depend on the size of the printing area you desire. Start simple, then expand as needed. This is an excellent way to add a level of customization to the project.
Mounting the Stepper Motors: Attach the stepper motors to the frame. These motors will control the movement of the print head, so ensure they are securely mounted. Use hot glue or any other suitable method to secure the motors. Make sure the motors align with the movement axis for the best results.
Installing the Control Board: Place and secure the control board within the frame. This is the brains of the printer. Make sure you have access to the board for wiring and adjustments. A good idea is to mount the board in a location where it can be accessed, but it won't interfere with the operation of the printer.
Assembling the Extruder and Hot End: Assemble the extruder and hot end and make sure to carefully wire them. These components work together to melt and extrude the filament. Attach them to the printer frame. At this stage, you'll need to ensure that the hot end is securely in place, so it doesn't move during printing.
Wiring: This can be the most complex part. Connect all the components to the control board and power supply. Make sure the wires are correctly connected and secure. Double-check all your connections. Incorrect wiring is a common problem. Proper wiring is vital for the printer to function properly.
Testing: Before you put your printer to the ultimate test, make sure that each component is working as expected. You might consider using a multimeter for testing. Once all components are assembled, power up the printer and test the motors, the hot end, and the heated bed (if you have one). Check that the motors are moving as expected. The hot end should heat up.

Remember, the most crucial part of the assembly is making sure everything is secure, and the wiring is correct. Take your time, double-check your connections, and don't be afraid to make adjustments along the way. The satisfaction of seeing your creation come to life is well worth the effort.

Software and Calibration: Bringing Your Printer to Life

Alright, you've built your 3D printer – awesome! But the journey doesn't end there. Now comes the crucial part: getting your printer to actually print something. This involves software and calibration, the tools that translate your digital designs into physical objects. Here's a breakdown of what you'll need to do:

Slicing Software: Slicing software is the heart of the 3D printing process. It takes your 3D model (usually an STL file) and converts it into G-code, the instructions your printer understands. There are many free and open-source slicers available, such as Cura, PrusaSlicer, and Simplify3D. These tools allow you to adjust settings such as layer height, print speed, and infill density. Experiment with different settings to see how they affect your print quality. This will require some experimentation to find the ideal settings for your printer.
Firmware: Firmware is the software that runs on your printer's control board. You'll likely need to flash the firmware onto your control board to match your printer's configuration. There are plenty of tutorials online. Common firmware options include Marlin and RepRap. Make sure to select the correct firmware for your control board.
Calibration: Calibration is the process of fine-tuning your printer to ensure accurate and reliable prints. Here are some critical calibration steps:
- Bed Leveling: Ensure the print bed is level. This is crucial for the first layer to stick to the bed. Leveling can be a manual process, or you can use an auto-bed leveling sensor.
- Z-Offset: Adjust the Z-offset to set the distance between the nozzle and the print bed. This is critical for achieving good first-layer adhesion. The distance will vary depending on the filament type and your printer settings.
- Extruder Calibration: Calibrate your extruder to ensure it is extruding the correct amount of filament. Incorrect extrusion can lead to problems such as under-extrusion or over-extrusion. This is an important step for accurate printing.
- Temperature Tuning: Adjust the hot end and bed temperatures to find the ideal settings for the filament you're using. The temperature settings vary based on the type of filament you are using.
Testing and Iteration: Once you have the software and calibration steps in place, the fun begins. Print some test models to see how your printer is performing. Evaluate the prints and adjust your settings as needed. The goal is to achieve the best possible print quality. Expect to iterate and make adjustments to improve your prints. 3D printing is an iterative process; you may need to make adjustments along the way.

Software and calibration can be a bit of a learning curve, but the effort is well worth it. With patience and persistence, you'll be printing amazing creations in no time!

Troubleshooting and Refinement: Making It Print Like a Pro

Even with careful planning and assembly, you'll likely encounter a few hiccups along the way. Don't worry, it's all part of the learning process! The goal is to learn from your mistakes and make improvements. Here's a guide to common problems and how to fix them:

Poor Bed Adhesion: This is the most common issue, especially for beginners. Make sure your bed is clean and level. Try using some adhesive, like glue stick or masking tape. If the first layer does not adhere well, it will cause the entire print to fail.
Clogging: The hot end can clog due to a variety of reasons, such as incorrect temperatures, filament quality issues, or simply debris. Try using a needle or a cleaning filament to unclog the hot end. Be careful when using a needle, as you can damage the hot end.
Warping: Warping happens when the print shrinks as it cools, causing the corners to lift off the bed. Use a heated bed, or consider using an enclosure for prints.
Stringing: Stringing occurs when the extruder oozes filament while traveling between parts. Adjusting retraction settings can help. You may need to experiment with retraction settings to solve this problem.
Layer Shifting: Layer shifting occurs when the print shifts during printing. Ensure your belts are tight and your stepper motors are functioning correctly. This is usually a mechanical issue, so check all the moving parts.
Print Quality: Poor print quality may be due to a variety of reasons. Adjust the settings in your slicer software to improve print quality. Calibrating the printer correctly is also a good place to start.

Don't be discouraged by these problems; they're all part of the learning curve. The key is to remain patient and persistent. Do your research, try different solutions, and learn from your mistakes. There are tons of online resources, forums, and communities dedicated to 3D printing. Do not hesitate to seek help from these resources. As you refine your printer, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the technology. The more you practice and experiment, the better your prints will become. Remember, every mistake is a lesson.

The Final Print: Show Off Your Creation!

Congratulations, guys! You've built a DIY 3D printer for under $20! That's an awesome achievement, and you should be proud of yourself. Now comes the most exciting part: printing something! Choose a simple 3D model from a site like Thingiverse or create your own design. Keep your first prints simple, and take your time. Focus on getting the basics right before tackling more complex designs. Then, fire up your slicer software, load your model, and start the print! With each print, you'll refine your skills, learn more about the technology, and unlock new possibilities.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different materials, settings, and designs. Embrace the learning process, and never stop exploring the world of 3D printing. Share your creations with the world, and inspire others to build their own budget-friendly 3D printers. You'll be amazed at what you can achieve. If you have the chance, share your printer on social media. Post pictures or videos of your creations. Share your story and inspire others to try the same thing! Who knows, maybe you'll even become a 3D printing guru. The possibilities are endless, and the only limit is your imagination. Now go out there and start printing!