4 Justifications For Woodworkers To Buy A 3D Printer
Almost all Makers love new tools, but some tools like 3D printers don't seem to initially mesh with disciplines like woodworking.
Woodworks span across the technology spectrum from hand tools only to full robotics with CNCs. Neither side is better than the other and everyone across the line is a Maker. I tend to be slightly more on the technology side while still staying grounded with some hand tools.
While 3D printing doesn't seem like it would mesh with woodworking, I've found 4 justifications for getting a printer anyway.
Justification 1: Organization
Workshops are (or at least should be) constantly evolving and we need more and better organization.
Aside from the obvious gridfinity options for drawers, 3D printing can solve most organizational needs in any shop space. From workbench tool rests to tool wall holders to any sized parts bin, the additional options are endless.
Justification 2: Jigs & Templates
One of my earliest Maker "level unlocks" was finding out for myself how much better my build results were with jigs and templates than free handing.
Many woodworks first print round over templates of several sizes that clamp to corners for router pattern bits to reference. Even custom wooden jigs can benefit by printing knobs the exact side (and color) you want.
Justification 3: Scale Model References
Some of my favorite projects have been power carved and I still use my power carved Deadpool head.
However, I also recognize that the head is far from perfect and some of the dimensions are off. If I had a 3D printer for that project, I would have printed a reference head to compare to the wood (which I am currently doing with another carving project that is Star Wars themed).
Justification 4: Custom Hardware
Finally we get a little out of the workshop itself into integrating 3D prints into the projects themselves.
Drawer handles and knobs are a great place to start since they all seem to look similar, are not complicated designs, and a little extra searching can reveal the exact piece that works for you. For woodworkers who theme projects (maybe fellow Star Wars nerds), printing greeblies and accents for sci-fi projects is almost essential and can even cost less than purchasing dozens of models to kitbash from.
