3D printing and Makedo - where do I start?Updated 3 months ago

The Makedo cardboard construction system is deliberately open-ended. This enables our global community of makers to draw on their own DIY skills as they come up with different ways to Makedo.

From the very beginning, our design team use 3D printers to develop new ideas and prototypes for the Makedo product range.

We also love to share these ideas, to see how all those clever makers respond. Featured below are a few of our favourite 3D printed additions to the Makedo system.

These designs are all free to download from Makedo on Thingiverse.

These designs include:

• Free-Swinging Hinge: A printable hinge with a 0 to 270-degree range of motion, ideal for adding moving doors, windows, and drawbridges. It connects to cardboard using 2–3 Makedo Scrus.

• Scru-Bit: An attachment bit designed for cordless electric screwdrivers (set to low torque) that allows for fast, easy insertion and removal of Scrus, making large-scale assembly and disassembly quicker and easier for all skill levels.

• Fab-Grab: A fabric connector bracket that securely attaches materials like cloth, curtains, or sails to cardboard using a single Scru without damaging the fabric.

• Step-Bracket: A versatile spacer and connector attached with two Scrus (from either side) that allows you to layer cardboard or build channels for projects like ball runs.

• Lego Adapter: A connector attached via one Scru that allows standard Lego parts to snap on and rotate, blending Lego elements directly into cardboard builds.

• Terminal Mount for micro:bit: An adapter designed that securely attaches a micro:bit terminal and power supply to cardboard, allowing creators to integrate electronics like lights, sensors, and servo motors.