3D printed knobs are a cheap fix for missing or worn knobs: a Reddit user in r/functionalprint printed a snowblower knob instead of paying about $25 for a replacement.
Knobs suit printing because they vary so much and molds are costly, according to Slant 3D, a YouTube channel run by a print-farm engineer. 3D PrintSmith, a YouTube channel that reviews printable designs, tested a knob set in which one insert fits any knob style.
Here is how to measure, design and print a knob that fits and lasts.
Common 3D Printed Knobs
Prices checked on Amazon Oct 16, 2026. I may earn a commission from links, at no cost to you.
- Appliance knobs (stove, washer, dryer). Use heat-resistant material near heat.
- Tool and jig knobs that capture a bolt head or nut
- Furniture and cabinet knobs
- Electronics knobs for pots and rotary encoders
- Snowblower, grill and outdoor equipment knobs (ASA)
How to Make a 3D Printed Knob Fit
| Shaft type | How to fit it |
|---|---|
| D-shaft | Measure diameter and flat; add 0.1 to 0.2 mm |
| Knurled/splined | Use a knob with a separate insert, or a compliant split hole |
| Bolt or nut | Hex pocket; press or glue the nut in |
| Set screw | Add a hole and an M3 heat-set insert |
Tips
- Print a thin test slice of the shaft hole first.
- PETG or ASA for knobs near heat or outdoors.
- Use a filament color change for markings.
| Use | Filament | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor, light load | PLA | Stiff and easy, but creeps under constant load |
| Constant load, bumps, flex | PETG | Tougher; resists creep and impact better |
| Hot garage, car, outdoors | ASA | Heat and UV resistant; needs an enclosed printer |
| Grip, soft contact | TPU | Rubber-like |
Best Printers for Knobs
| Printer | Price (Amazon, Oct 16, 2026) | Why it fits | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bambu Lab A1 | $299.99 | Accurate holes for tight shaft fits | Check price |
| Elegoo Centauri 2 Combo | $328.99 | 4-color for printed markings | Check price |
| Bambu Lab P1S Combo | $549.00 | Enclosed for ASA outdoor knobs | Check price |
What YouTube Creators Found About 3D Printed Knobs
These are findings from popular YouTube videos, paraphrased from their transcripts and credited. They are the creators’ experiences and claims, not my test results.
- 3D PrintSmith (3D PrintSmith: “Any knob for any device. 3D printed knobs for any occasion!”) reviewed a knob set by designer Bryce in which a separate insert fits any knob style, so you can match the look to any shaft. He worried the insert sat too close to the edge, but it printed fine.
- Slant 3D (Slant 3D: “Design Custom Cabinet Knobs Using 3D Printing”) argued knobs suit 3D printing because they vary so much and molds are costly. He showed a universal knob with a compliant two-half mechanism in the base that ships with just a screw.
- Reddit: an r/functionalprint user printed a snowblower knob; the replacement was about $25.
Designing Custom Knobs
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you 3D print a stove knob?
Yes, but use a heat-resistant material such as ASA or PETG, and don’t use PLA near burners.
How do I measure a knob shaft?
Use calipers to measure the diameter and the flat or spline, then add 0.1 to 0.2 mm.
Where can I find knob files?
MakerWorld, Printables and Thingiverse. Search the appliance model.
What if the knob is loose?
Reprint at 98 to 99% scale or add a set screw.
Sources
- 3D PrintSmith: “Any knob for any device”
- Slant 3D: “Design Custom Cabinet Knobs Using 3D Printing”
- r/functionalprint: household hardware list
- Amazon product listings for the printers linked above, October 16, 2026
Related: How to 3D Print Replacement Parts | 3D Printed Threads, Nuts and Bolts | 3D Printed Tools | PLA vs PETG for Beginners
Notes and disclosure
Note: Printer prices come from Amazon listings on October 16, 2026 and change often. The ideas below come from popular YouTube creators and Reddit threads, credited where used. My own hands-on results will be added after my planned test prints.
Affiliate Disclosure: If you purchase an item through the links on this page, I may receive a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting the channel.