3 Ways to Connect Your 3D Models
We’re excited to announce the release of 3 new additions to our 3D printed connections and mechanisms course—each focused on simple, functional connection methods that can be integrated into your own designs.
7th July 2025 • News
The new cubes include:
- Dovetail Cube – a sliding interlock joint that provides directional alignment and friction-based hold.
- Friction Chamfer Cube – a square peg and tapered hole that creates a tight, semi-permanent press fit.
- Clip Connector Cube – a snap-fit box using flexible clips for reversible assembly.
While previous cubes mainly focused on motion, these new examples explore how to connect parts together—whether to split a model for support-free printing, create custom enclosures, or design modular assemblies.
As with all our cubes, each one comes with:
- An introduction video
- A full Tinkercad and Autodesk Fusion tutorial
- Downloadable model files, including parametric Fusion files so you can edit size and tolerance
- Challenge prompts to extend your learning
These mechanisms are simple but powerful—ideal for anyone looking to take their functional 3D designs further.
You can access the new cubes in the 3D Printed Connections and Mechanisms course, included in all PrintLab subscriptions. If you’re not yet subscribed, feel free to check them out from our free trial. We can’t wait to see how you use them and we look forward to adding more cubes to the library soon!
Access the 3D Printed Connections and Mechanisms course with a free trial to PrintLab