Test Project
A 3D printed solution to stabilize my manual coffee grinder and create a more organized brewing setup. Sometimes the best projects solve the simplest daily frustrations.
Tools & Technologies
Materials
Every morning started with frustration
My Hario Mini Mill grinder would slide around the counter, tip over when grinding, and take up valuable workspace. The rubber base wasn't enough grip for the torque generated during grinding. I needed a solution that would keep it stable and organized.
Designing for Stability and Space
The key was creating a wider base while maintaining the grinder's accessibility. I measured the exact dimensions of the grinder base and designed a stand with a 15° angle to naturally funnel coffee grounds toward the catch cup. The raised design also creates storage space underneath for the grinder handle.
Why PETG Over PLA
Kitchen applications need durability and food safety. PETG offers better chemical resistance than PLA, won't warp from heat near the stove, and has the flexibility to absorb vibration from grinding. The slight transparency also looks cleaner than opaque PLA in a kitchen setting.
The Transformation
The difference isn't just aesthetic—it's functional. Before, I'd spill grounds while the grinder moved around and waste time searching for the handle. Now everything has a place, grinding is stable, and cleanup takes seconds instead of minutes. The angled design naturally guides grounds into the cup with minimal mess.
Before
After
Getting the fit just right took three iterations
The first print was too tight—the grinder barely fit and stressed the plastic. The second was too loose and didn't provide the stability I wanted. The final version has just 0.2mm clearance all around: snug enough for stability, loose enough for easy removal and cleaning.
Outcome & Learnings
This simple stand transformed my daily coffee routine from a frustrating chore into a smooth, enjoyable ritual. More importantly, it taught me the value of iterative design and precise measurement in functional 3D printing projects.
Key Learnings
- Kitchen applications require different material considerations than typical 3D printed objects
- Tolerance testing is crucial—measure twice, print once doesn't apply when you need to test fit
- Small functional improvements can have outsized impacts on daily routines
- Sometimes the best projects solve problems so mundane you don't realize they're problems until they're solved
Future Work
I'm considering a version 2.0 with integrated storage for filters and a measuring scoop. The success of this project has me looking at other kitchen tools that could benefit from custom 3D printed solutions.