In today’s remote-first work culture, a cluttered desk can quickly drain your productivity. But what if your solution wasn’t found in a store—but on your own 3D printer? Whether you’re new to 3D printing or a seasoned maker, designing and printing your own office organizers is not only cost-effective, it’s also a creative way to customize your workspace. PLA and ABS filament are two of the best materials to work with—and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
Why Choose PLA and ABS for Office Organizers?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) are two of the most popular thermoplastics used in 3D printing, and they each come with their own advantages. For office projects, both materials provide unique benefits depending on your needs.
PLA is biodegradable, easy to print with, and perfect for lightweight items like pen holders, small trays, or decorative pieces. It doesn’t require a heated print bed, has minimal warping, and works great on almost any desktop 3D printer.
ABS, on the other hand, is stronger and more heat-resistant. It’s the material of choice for objects that need to endure frequent handling, like phone stands or drawer organizers. Although it can be trickier to print due to higher temperatures and warping, the results are often longer-lasting.
If you’re looking for clean, aesthetic designs, go with PLA. If you need something tough and functional, ABS will be your go-to.
Must-Have Tools to Get Started
Before diving into DIY projects, make sure your setup is ready:
- 3D Printer: Any FDM printer with a heated bed will work for PLA, while ABS may require an enclosed chamber for better results.
- Nozzle Temperature: PLA usually prints between 190–220°C; ABS works best between 230–250°C.
- Bed Adhesion Tools: For ABS, use a heated bed at 90–110°C and a good adhesive like a glue stick or ABS slurry to prevent warping.
- Filament Storage: Keep both PLA and ABS dry by storing them in sealed containers with desiccant.
By fine-tuning your slicer settings and prepping your printer correctly, you can avoid common printing issues like layer separation, stringing, or bed adhesion failure.
Best DIY Office Organizers to Print
Ready to start printing? These practical and fun projects will instantly upgrade your desk:
1. Pen and Pencil Holders
A simple cylindrical or hexagonal pen holder is a perfect first print. Use PLA for vibrant color options and ease of printing. Want something ultra-sturdy or stackable? ABS is ideal for modular designs that clip together.
2. Cable Management Clips & Organizers
Messy cords are productivity killers. Print reusable clips, wall-mounted cable routes, or under-desk trays. ABS is a great choice here because of its durability, especially if the clips will undergo pressure or repeated bending.
3. Custom Drawer Dividers
Tailor your storage by printing drawer dividers that fit your exact layout. Use PLA for easy prints or ABS if you’re designing heavy-duty trays for tools or gadgets.
4. Tablet and Phone Stands
With remote meetings now a daily norm, a sturdy stand for your phone or tablet is essential. Look for ergonomic models with angled slots and cable passthroughs. ABS works well here thanks to its ability to handle weight and impact.
5. Sticky Note and Business Card Holders
Personalized holders for notes and cards are easy wins for your desk. PLA makes them light and colorful, perfect for customizations like adding your logo or initials.
Customizing Your Prints
One of the best parts of 3D printing is being able to fully customize your items. Use free modeling tools like Tinkercad or Fusion 360 to adjust dimensions or add personal touches. Want to make your organizer match your office aesthetic? Sand it, paint it, or even add vinyl decals.
You can also blend functionality with creativity—design combination organizers that hold pens, phones, and sticky notes all in one piece!
Bonus: Sustainability Tip
Got leftover filament or failed prints? Don’t toss them. PLA is biodegradable under industrial conditions, and you can often repurpose scraps for test prints. For more serious recycling, some enthusiasts use filament recyclers to create new spools from old prints—perfect for makers looking to minimize waste.
Final Thoughts
Organizing your workspace doesn’t have to involve a trip to the store. With just a 3D printer and some high-quality PLA or ABS filament, you can build custom office organizers that reflect your personality, workflow, and creativity. Whether you’re into sleek minimalism or bold and functional designs, the possibilities are endless.Ready to start your own desk makeover? Check out filalab.shop for premium PLA and ABS filaments in a variety of colors and finishes to bring your ideas to life.