3D printing has changed how we play games. For board game lovers, customising your collection is part of the fun. One of the easiest and most practical upgrades is the board game clip 3d print. These small tools do more than hold things together, they improve how you play, store, and enjoy your games. Let’s take a deep dive into this rising trend and see why producing your own board game clips can be a game-changer.
What Are Board Game Clips?
Board game clips are small containers, pieces, or connectors. They’re designed to keep boards level, establish components, or even substitute broken parts. Most players use them to keep linked boards in place or manage cards and tiles.
Some popular types include:
- Tile holders
- Card stack clips
- Board joiners
- Resource tray clips
- Token sorters
The great part? You can make all of these with a 3D printer at home.
Why 3D Print Board Game Clips?
There are many reasons tabletop gamers turn to 3D printing. Let’s explore a few:
1. Customisation
No two board games are the same. Some need tight board joins. Others need separate token bins. When you print your own clips, you can tailor each one to your exact needs.
2. Cost-Effective
After the initial cost of a 3D printer, printing small clips is cheap. You avoid buying expensive accessories or importing from other countries.
3. Repairs and Replacements
Lost or broken components? No problem. With a bit of design or a pre-made STL file, you can print a fresh piece in minutes.
4. Better Organisation
Clips can help manage clutter. Holding cards upright, sorting tokens, or snapping together map tiles—clips do it all.
5. Community Designs
Sites like Thingiverse and Printables host thousands of free STL files for board game clips. You don’t have to be a pro designer to get started.
Best Games for 3d-Printed Clips
Some games benefit more from clip upgrades than others. If you love these titles, you’ll enjoy what clips can do:
- Gloomhaven – Map tile clips and token trays
- Terraforming Mars – Card holders and player board clips
- Catan – Road and tile joiners
- Carcassonne – Tile alignment clips
- Ark Nova – Organisers for cards and animals
Each of these games uses many parts. Clips keep them tidy and prevent movement during play.
What Materials Should You Use?
PLA is the most common material for printing game clips. It’s easy to use, strong enough, and comes in many colours.
Other options:
- PETG: More durable, great for clips under tension.
- TPU: Flexible, useful for soft grips.
- ABS: Tough, but harder to print without warping.
Most users stick with PLA for simplicity and cost.
Tips for a Great Print
Even small parts like clips need care during printing. Follow these tips:
- Use 0.2mm layer height for better detail.
- Set infill to 20-50% for strong clips.
- Use brims or rafts if the clips have narrow bases.
- Keep your print bed clean and levelled.
A well-calibrated printer makes all the difference.
Designing Your Own Clips
Many users download files, but designing your own isn’t as hard as it seems. Free tools like Tinkercad let you build simple models with a drag-and-drop interface. Start with basic shapes. Think about how the clip fits with your game piece. Add small fillets to reduce breakage. Try printing one and test the fit. Adjust as needed.
The more you do it, the better you’ll get.
How to Store and Label Clips
Once you start printing clips, you’ll quickly build a collection. Use zip bags, labelled trays, or a small drawer unit to keep them sorted. Label by game title or part type. You can even 3D print labels or dividers for a more polished look.
3D Printing Brings Creativity to Gaming
Board games already bring people together. With 3D printing, you can enhance the experience. Whether it’s fixing broken boards, adding better storage, or just personalising your favourite titles, board game clips are a smart start. You’re not just playing anymore, you’re building your own world.
Eco-Friendly Bonus
3D printing isn’t just fun. If you use PLA made from renewable resources, like cornstarch, you’re reducing plastic waste. Plus, making only what you need saves energy compared to mass-produced parts.
READ MORE – Black Claw 3D Print Files: Top Models, Tips & FAQs
FAQs:
1. What is the best material to use for 3d printing board game clips?
PLA is the top choice due to its ease of use, low cost, and good strength. PETG is a good upgrade for parts needing more durability.
2. Can I 3d print clips for any board game?
Yes. With the right measurements or a matching design, you can make clips for almost any game. Many STL files are available online.
3. How do I find designs for board game clips?
Search for free STL files on platforms like Thingiverse or Printables. Use keywords like “board game clip + [game name].”
4. Are 3d-printed clips strong enough for repeated use?
Yes, especially if printed with good settings and the right material. PLA works well, but for long-lasting clips, PETG or ABS may be a better choice.
5. Do I need to know CAD to design my own clips?
Not at all. Tools like Tinkercad are beginner-friendly. Many start with modifying existing designs before creating their own from scratch.
Conclusion:
Board game clips may be small, but their impact is big. They help make your tabletop games neater, faster, and more fun. Thanks to 3d printing, every gamer now has the power to tweak, fix, and improve their favourite sets. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore enthusiast, it’s time to unlock your next level of gaming. So plug in your printer and start with something simple. You’ll be surprised how much a tiny clip can improve your next game night.
