How to Design and 3D Print the Perfect Storage System

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how I used 3D printing to organize my tools and supplies—from choosing a modular system to designing my own custom inserts. Whether you're new to 3D printing or just looking for ways to declutter, there's something here for you.

Step 1: Choosing a Modular System

The foundation of my setup is based on a system called Gridfinity, an open-source grid system designed for flexible, customizable storage. It lets you design your space with interchangeable modules that snap into a baseplate.

Start by measuring your drawer's internal length, width, and height. For example, in my smallest drawer, I found I could fit a 9x13 grid at a max height of 45mm.

Since my printer could only handle 5x5 grids at once, printing baseplates for all my drawers would take 43 hours and nearly 2kg of filament. Instead, I used laser-cut plywood sheets. It was a bit more expensive, but saved me hours.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have access to a laser cutter, check with your local makerspace or library.

Step 2: Designing Shadowboxes

Beginner-Friendly - Tinkercad Method

Shadowboxes are custom inserts that hold your tools in place. If you're just starting out, I recommend using Tinkercad.

Measure each item with digital calipers.
Use a Gridfinity bin model in Tinkercad to build around.
Design bins around each object. Leave a little extra tolerance.
Export your design and slice for printing.

Before committing to larger prints, I printed stencils for test fitting. It’s a fast way to spot sizing issues before investing in filament waste.

Designing Shadowboxes

Advanced Beginner - Fusion 360 Method

If you're comfortable with Fusion 360, you can streamline your workflow:

Import Gridfinity module as a reference.
Sketch around tool outlines with precision.
Use parametric features to batch-adjust designs.
Add ergonomic features like thumb grips or stackable trays.

This method gives you more control over detail, dimensions, and efficiency.

Step 3: Print and Test Fit

Helpful features to consider:

Thumb grips for easier access
Stacked tools to maximize vertical space
Labels for identification

3D printing gave me the ability to create a storage system that fits my space, my tools, and my workflow. By combining Gridfinity, laser-cut baseplates, and custom-designed bins, I transformed clutter into calm.

Whether you’re designing your first insert in Tinkercad or customizing complex trays in Fusion, the process is approachable—and satisfying.

Find My Gridfinity Designs:

Printables: https://www.printables.com/@itsxris_553881
Maker World: https://makerworld.com/en/@itsxris

Featured Resources:

Gridfinity by Zach Freedman: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ra_9zU-mnl8&t=518s&ab_channel=ZackFreedman
Gridfinity Extended by Ostat: https://makerworld.com/en/models/481168-gridfinity-extended-official#profileId-495677
Gridfinity Baseplate Generator: https://gridfinitygenerator.com/en/baseplate
Adobe Illustrator Pen Tool Game: https://bezier.method.ac/
Tinkercad: https://www.tinkercad.com/dashboard
Fusion 360: https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/overview
Fusion 360 Gridfinity Plugin: https://apps.autodesk.com/FUSION/en/Detail/Index?id=7197558650811789&os=Win64&appLang=en

Featured Tools:

Calipers: https://amzn.to/42p1HNP
Tape Measure: https://amzn.to/4iS61Lu

Featured Materials:

5/32" Plywood: https://www.homedepot.com/p/Columbia-Forest-Products-5-32-in-x-1-ft-x-1-ft-7-in-PureBond-Maple-Plywood-Project-Panel-10-Pack-4940/312284408
Filament: https://amzn.to/42qbGm3
3D Printer: https://us.store.bambulab.com/products/x1-carbon

Some links in are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Some may also include discounts or coupons—use them if you're interested. Thanks for your support!

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