Drawn to life: The Magic of 3D Pens

Have you heard of a 3D Pen? 3D Pens are perfect for expanding horizons and breaking the barriers of traditional 2-dimensional creativity! Let's explore how these remarkable devices are revolutionising the classroom and how they can also be used in your own home!

What is a 3D Pen?  

A 3D Pen looks somewhat like a bulkier version of your typical writing pen but is infused with a technology that allows it to extrude heated plastic. As the melted plastic comes out, it rapidly cools and solidifies, allowing the user to draw in three dimensions!  

Educational Benefits of 3D Pens 

In the classroom, 3D pens can serve as a fantastic tool for encouraging creativity and innovative thinking. Students can create various geometric shapes to better understand concepts like volume and surface area more thoroughly.  

Students can also build models ranging from molecules to solar systems to help students visualise and understand complex structures. 

For older students and those with a knack for technology, 3D pens can be used for advanced projects, including architectural and intricate art installations. Teachers can really challenge students to think critically about how to structure their designs to be both aesthetic and functional.  

3D Pens in your home

Not only are 3D Pens useful in the classroom, but they are also incredibly fun, making them perfect for home activities! They encourage creativity and help your child learn patience has their artwork comes to life one layer at a time! 
 
For younger children, simple projects like creating shapes and figures can help get a feel for the medium. But as they grow more comfortable, they can move on to more complex structures, like buildings or their favourite cartoon characters.  

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Uses of 3D Pens For older students who aren't as interested in drawing their favorite cartoon characters, 3D Pens can be used for more advanced projects, including architectural models and intricate art installations. Teachers can really challenge students to think critically about how to structure their designs to be both aesthetically pleasing while also being functional.  

Related: Making Imagination Real - 3D Printing Pen Technology

Choosing the Right 3D Pen

When deciding which 3D pen to purchase, there are several factors that are important to consider. These include ease of use, safety features, material compatibility, and cost. Here are a few examples of 3D Pens that you can use today in your home, as well as their best features! 

3Doodler Start+ Essentials Pack

• User-Friendly: One-button control, suitable for beginners. 

• Versatile: Works with PLA, ABS, and FLEXY plastics.  

• Safe: Features a safe-to-touch nozzle and auto-sleep function. 

myFirst 3D Pen Make 

• Kid-Friendly Design: Ergonomic for small hands. 

• Safe Material: Uses low-temperature PCL filament. 

• Affordable: Great value for budget-conscious families. 

myFirst 3D Pen Artist

• Durable Anti-Clog Nozzle: Less likely to experience clogs

• Speed Control: Multiple speed controls to draw at your desired speed

• Higher precision: Great for intricate designs

3Doodler Flow Pen 

• Advanced Control: Precise flow settings for detailed projects. 

• High Performance: Ideal for frequent use in schools and by hobbyists. 

• Enhanced Safety: Non-clogging, safe-to-touch nozzle. 

The 3Doodler Essentials Pack, myFirst 3D Pen Make, myFirst 3D Pen Artist, and 3Doodler Flow Pen may cater to different needs, from beginner to advanced users but each model promotes creativity and learning through 3D drawing, making them invaluable in educational and home environments.

So now that you know the wonderful things these tools can do, go out and explore the potential of 3D pens with our top picks for educators and parents. Whether you're fostering young talent or enhancing classroom activities, these pens are designed to inspire and educate for years to come.