What
A lightweight, modular clay 3D printing head designed to be fabricated entirely from PLA plastic. Intended for use with delta-style 3D printers, it features an easily replaceable cake-decorating nozzle and uses standard stepper motors. The goal was to create a fully self-manufacturable tool: one that can be printed, repaired, or reproduced using the very machines it is designed to work with.
A lightweight, modular clay 3D printing head designed to be fabricated entirely from PLA plastic. Intended for use with delta-style 3D printers, it features an easily replaceable cake-decorating nozzle and uses standard stepper motors. The goal was to create a fully self-manufacturable tool: one that can be printed, repaired, or reproduced using the very machines it is designed to work with.
Why
This project functions as an act of 'Robin Hood Engineering'. Offering a tool to the open-source community that would otherwise remain specialized and costly. Rather than viewing the extruder as a commodity, it is framed as an enabler: the real value lies in how it is used, particularly in the g-code generation and the experience of the clay printer. The extruder itself is not intended for mass adoption, but as a meaningful resource for those already exploring the nuances of digital clay fabrication.
This project functions as an act of 'Robin Hood Engineering'. Offering a tool to the open-source community that would otherwise remain specialized and costly. Rather than viewing the extruder as a commodity, it is framed as an enabler: the real value lies in how it is used, particularly in the g-code generation and the experience of the clay printer. The extruder itself is not intended for mass adoption, but as a meaningful resource for those already exploring the nuances of digital clay fabrication.
How
Inspired by the WASP3d extruder, this version strips the design down to its essential components while eliminating nearly all metal parts. A delta plate is integrated directly into the body to simplify attachment. The PLA-printed motor mount is engineered to dissipate heat effectively, keeping temperatures below PLA’s softening point. Threads are cut directly into PLA, balancing functionality with reparability. This makes the design not only low-cost and accessible, but also highly modifiable — ideal for iterative development by users familiar with the demands of clay 3D printing.
Inspired by the WASP3d extruder, this version strips the design down to its essential components while eliminating nearly all metal parts. A delta plate is integrated directly into the body to simplify attachment. The PLA-printed motor mount is engineered to dissipate heat effectively, keeping temperatures below PLA’s softening point. Threads are cut directly into PLA, balancing functionality with reparability. This makes the design not only low-cost and accessible, but also highly modifiable — ideal for iterative development by users familiar with the demands of clay 3D printing.
currently under development: a 3 colour extruder
