How to Turn Any 3D Print into a Fridge Magnet (Without Glue!)
Hey! Just a quick post to share something fun I’ve been messing around with: turning 3D prints into fridge magnets—even when the STL file wasn’t originally designed that way.
This idea came to me while printing some adorable Lebubu models (from Mad Monkey 3D on Patreon). The file had a nice flat back, but no built-in magnet slot. So, I decided to modify it—and I thought, hang on, maybe not everyone knows how to do this. So here we are!
Let me walk you through how I do it, step-by-step, using built-in features in Bambu Lab Studio (or any slicer that supports modifier meshes and pauses).
Why Not Just Glue a Magnet?
Sure, some folks drill a hole and glue a magnet in. That works… but I’ve found embedding the magnet inside the print:
- Looks way cleaner,
- Feels more polished, and
- Keeps the magnet safely tucked away—ideal if you’ve got little ones around.
What You’ll Need
- Your STL file (ideally with a flat back)
- Your favorite slicer (I used Bambu Lab Slicer)
- Small neodymium magnets (mine are 18mm x 5.5mm)
- Digital calipers (for magnet size)
- A printer with pause/resume support
Step-by-Step: Embedding the Magnet
1. Download Your File
I grabbed my model from Mad Monkey 3D’s Patreon—flat back, but no magnet support. Perfect for this little mod!
2. Add a Negative Disc
In PrusaSlicer:
- Right-click on your model and choose Add Negative Part > Disc.
- You’ll be prompted to switch to “Per-object settings”—click Yes.
This disc will become the pocket for your magnet.
3. Resize the Disc
- Uncheck Uniform Scale.
- Enter your magnet dimensions. Mine are:
- X = 18mm
- Y = 18mm
- Z = 5.5mm
Your size might vary, so measure carefully!
4. Position the Disc
- Use the Move tool to place the disc where you want the magnet to sit.
- Make sure it’s not overlapping any hinges, features, or walls.
- I resized my model (in this case, a Cookie Monster) slightly so the disc fit without touching the edges.
5. Adjust Z-Axis
- Use the Z-axis move control to lower the disc into the model.
- You want it embedded, but not too deep—just enough so the magnet will be held securely and still do its job.
6. Slice It
- Slice the model and check the preview.
- Use the slider to confirm the disc is embedded properly. You should see the model get built around the cavity and then cover it up at your magnet’s height.
7. Add a Pause
- In the slicer preview, right-click on the layer just above where the cavity ends.
- Choose Add Pause.
- Slice again to apply the change.
This tells your printer to pause at just the right layer so you can insert your magnet mid-print.
During the Print
When the printer pauses:
- Drop your magnet into the cavity (double-check polarity if you want it to face a specific direction!).
- Click Resume on your printer.
- Let the print finish. The magnet will be sealed inside, and you’re done!
That’s It!
I ended up turning a bunch of Lebubus into fridge magnets. None of the original models were designed to be magnets—but with this method, they totally are now. They stick great, look awesome, and best of all… no messy glue.
Right now, I’m going a bit fridge magnet crazy—browsing through models and thinking “how can I turn this into a magnet?” The wife’s probably going to roll her eyes when the fridge is completely covered, but I think they look brilliant!
Final Thoughts
If this little guide helped you or gave you ideas, I’d really appreciate it if you:
- Subscribe to the YouTube channel
- Give the video a thumbs up 👍
- Share it with someone who might enjoy turning their prints into magnets, too!
Thanks for stopping by—and happy printing!
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