Are your prints failing for no obvious reason?
In most cases the problem is not the printer, but the accessories you are using (or the ones you are missing).
3D printer accessories are tools and supporting items that improve the whole additive manufacturing process. They are not part of the printer, but they have a direct bearing on the final result.
They act on key factors such as:
- Adhesion.
- Precision.
- Post-processing.
- Maintenance.
- Process stability.
In other words: the printer prints, but the accessories make it print well.
The digital calliper or vernier gauge: an essential tool for making sure printed parts are accurate. It lets you measure length, diameter and depth precisely so you get true-to-scale designs. It also lets you measure the filament diameter, which helps you adjust the extrusion flow and avoid problems such as over- or under-extrusion.
Filament storage: hygroscopic filaments such as PETG absorb moisture from the air, causing bubbles and popping in the hotend and irregularities in the flow.
3D accessories can be grouped into three broad blocks according to their impact on the process:
- Improving the print.
- Post-processing and maintenance.
- Material control.
Types of accessories for 3D printers
This covers all the 3D accessories involved during the printing stage, especially at the start, where the success or failure of the part is decided. Bear in mind that if the first layer fails, everything that follows will go wrong.
This includes solutions such as:
- Bed adhesives (spray, stick, liquids).
- PEI surfaces or special build plates.
- Basic process control items.
Their main job is to ensure the print is stable from the first layer, avoiding problems such as warping, the part shifting or a lack of adhesion.
They are also especially important when you work with: large parts, technical materials (ABS, PETG) or long prints.
Adhesives for 3D printers
Adhesives let you fix the part to the build plate, preventing deformation or movement.
Main types:
- Adhesive spray (3DLac, Dimafix): easy to apply and very effective.
- Glue stick: cheap and functional (ideal for PLA).
- PEI surface: needs no additional application.
- Kapton tape: used on older printers.
Post-processing accessories
This is the most important group in practical terms, because it directly affects the final quality of the part and how the machine runs.
It includes:
- Removal tools (spatulas, pliers).
- Finishing tools (deburrers, cutters).
- Cleaning tools (needles, brushes).
- Lubricants and maintenance.
This is where complete kits such as Winkle’s Starter Pack 3D come in, bringing together everything you need in a single set.
Their purpose is twofold:
- Improve the finish of the parts (removing supports, burrs and imperfections).
- Keep the printer in optimal condition (avoiding jams, wear and failures).
The tools you need for your 3D printer. Starter Pack
What does the Starter Pack 3D include?
- Precision cutter + spare blades → for removing supports without damaging the part.
- Deburrer → gives a clean finish.
- Cutting pliers → support removal.
- Precision tweezers → delicate handling.
- Unblocking needles → nozzle cleaning.
- Brushes (brass, steel and nylon) → thorough cleaning.
- Printer lubricant→ reduces friction and wear.
Order or reserve your 3D printer tool kit.
Accessories for storing and preserving material quality
These accessories have an enormous impact on the final quality.
They include:
- Airtight bags (such as the Doypack ZIP ones).
- Anti-moisture systems.
- Storage boxes.
Their aim is to protect the filament from moisture, dust and degradation.
The trouble is that these failures are not always obvious: they look like bubbles, the layers do not adhere well or the part loses strength. Many users try adjusting the printer without realising that the problem sometimes lies in the material.
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