I’m looking to start keeping hardware for prints that need additional parts to complete them. A Pi case that I printed needed screws that I don’t have on hand and needed to go searching for some.

It got me thinking to keep a container of stuff ready that would get used often, but I don’t really know what to keep on hand. What do you have readily available?

  • @joemansmoke@lemmy.worldEnglish
    12•1 year ago

    I have a pack of M2-M5 screws + nuts + washers thats come in handy. Also, heat press inserts (if you have a soldering iron) can really help clean up designs. Again, I just have a M2-M5 pack with various lengths, and I think it even came with the soldering iron tips for each insert size.

    I’ve had trouble finding Metric fasteners in my local hardware store, so I just buy variety packs online. Also, most 3D prints Ive run into use Metric sizes, with the occasional 6-32 screw here and there.

    Zip ties are nice if you mess around with your printer or work on electronics (cable management).

    • FuglyDuckEnglish
      3•1 year ago

      M2, m3 and m5 bolts of various lengths,

      The inserts and a tap. For weak connections, instead of the insets, I just tap out the hole.

      Other hardware I keep on hand are wiring and soldering, resistors and other vitamins, smooth rods (for making pins, etc).

      Mostly I buy what I need as i need it but things like electronics components, they tend to be more less bulk buys.

    • KroninJOPEnglish
      1•1 year ago

      I wasn’t sure about what type of screws to get. I haven’t printed off enough that need them to know quite yet, but not having any also has held me back from printing those things.

      I was thinking about springs, but it seems like there’s just too much variety to really keep much on hand.

        • KroninJOPEnglish
          1•1 year ago

          I just picked up a set a few weeks ago. Game changer for sure.

      • Mom Nom MomEnglish
        2•1 year ago

        With springs, you might be able to substitute a print-in-place option.

        Or keep the springs from retractable pens. If you end up with a project that needs one, you might have the right size…

        I have also seen some designs that use a rubberband to do something similar.

        Just a couple of ideas, that might be useful.

        • KroninJOPEnglish
          2•1 year ago

          Thanks for the idea! Will have to pick up an assortment of rubber bands.

          I’ve saved some springs from dead lighters, but I don’t know if they will get much use.