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Under $700

3D Printing Workshop Under $700 (2025)

Functional makerspace setup with printer, filament, tools, safety gear, and workspace for hobbyist printing.

💰 Actual Cost: $560Save $1500 vs PremiumUpdated December 2, 2025

Dreaming of a 3D printing workshop but stuck on a tight budget? Many hobbyists think you need $1,000+ for a decent setup, but that's not true. This guide shows you how to build a complete, functional 3D printing workshop for under $700 that lets you print prototypes, custom parts, and fun models right away.

You'll get a reliable printer, essential materials, precision tools, safety essentials, and basic workspace organization. Expect to produce quality prints up to 220x220x250mm at speeds suitable for hobby use. This budget won't buy ultra-fast printers or industrial enclosures, but it delivers reliable results without constant breakdowns—perfect for makerspace enthusiasts experimenting on a dime.

Realistic expectations: Prints will take 2-10 hours depending on size, with occasional tweaks needed. No auto-everything features, but manual controls build skills. Upgrade later for speed and ease.

Budget Philosophy

For this $700 3D printing workshop, I divided the budget strategically across 5 core categories: Printer (35%, ~$220), Materials (10%, ~$60), Safety (10%, ~$55), Tools & Accessories (25%, ~$140), and Workspace (20%, ~$110). The printer gets the lion's share because it's the heart of the setup—a cheap, unreliable one leads to wasted time and money on fixes. Safety deserves dedicated funds due to fire and fume risks in enclosed spaces like makerspaces.

Tools and accessories get a healthy slice for precision and maintenance, as skipping them means failed prints and frustration. Workspace and materials are leaner: basic tables work fine for hobbyists, and starter filament is cheap to replace. This allocation prioritizes 'must-haves' for immediate functionality (printer + safety) over nice-to-haves (fancy enclosure), leaving a $140 buffer for shipping/taxes or extras. Trade-offs: Faster printers or metal frames wait for upgrades.

This approach maximizes prints-per-dollar: 80% reliable operation vs. budget pitfalls like no-safety setups that end in disasters.

Where to Splurge

  • Printer: Core reliability and print quality; cheap models warp beds or fail steppers, wasting hours and filament.
  • Safety Gear: Fire and eye protection prevents costly accidents; skipping risks burns, fires, or workshop bans in makerspaces.
  • Filament Storage: Dry filament prints smoothly; wet filament causes stringing/blobs, ruining 50%+ of prints.

Where to Save

  • Workspace Table: Sturdy folding tables handle hobby loads; no need for heavy-duty until scaling up.
  • Basic Tools: Budget kits scrape, poke, and unclog effectively for starters; precision upgrades later.
  • Cutting Mat: Simple self-healing mats protect surfaces without premium grid features.

Recommended Products (12)

#1essential3D Printer

Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer

The core machine for printing functional parts and prototypes up to 220x220x250mm.

$219.00
39% of budget
Creality Ender 3 V3 SE 3D Printer

Overview: This Cartesian FDM printer features auto-leveling, direct drive extruder, and 250mm/s max speed for smooth hobby prints.

Why it fits: At $219, it's the best value entry-level printer with sprite extruder for reliable PLA prints—perfect for makerspace beginners. Running total: $219 (remaining $481).

Comparisons: Vs. $500+ Bambu Lab, it's slower/manual but 70% cheaper with similar quality after bed tweaks. Great value for 100s of hours of use.

Pros

  • +Auto bed leveling saves setup time
  • +Direct drive reduces stringing
  • +Quiet operation for shared spaces
  • +Easy upgrades
  • +Strong community support

Cons

  • -Requires 15-30min assembly
  • -No touchscreen (uses knob)
  • -Max 250C nozzle limits some filaments
  • -Manual filament changes

Upgrade Option: Creality Ender 3 V3 ($399) - CoreXY for 500mm/s speed and better rigidity

Budget Alternative: Anycubic Kobra 2 Neo ($179) - Loses auto-leveling, more tuning needed

Check Price on Amazon
#2essentialFilament

SUNLU PLA Filament 1.75mm 4KG (4 x 1KG Spools)

Starter material for 100+ hours of printing common models and prototypes.

$60.00
11% of budget
SUNLU PLA Filament 1.75mm 4KG (4 x 1KG Spools)

Overview: High-quality PLA in assorted colors, +/-0.02mm tolerance for consistent extrusion.

Why it fits: $60 for 4kg gives months of printing without moisture issues when stored properly. Running total: $279 (remaining $421).

Comparisons: Matches $25/kg premium like Prusa but half price; brittle vs ABS but easier for beginners.

Pros

  • +Smooth flow, minimal warping
  • +Vibrant colors
  • +Eco-friendly and odor-low
  • +Compatible with all printers
  • +Bulk value

Cons

  • -Not heat-resistant >60C
  • -Brittle for functional parts
  • -Needs dry storage
  • -Basic colors (upgrade spools later)

Upgrade Option: Inland PLA+ 4kg ($75) - Stronger for mechanical parts

Budget Alternative: Generic Amazon PLA 2kg ($30) - Higher failure rate from poor tolerance

Check Price on Amazon
#3essentialSafety

Kidde FA110 ABC Fire Extinguisher 2.5lb

Essential fire suppression for electrical/plastic fires common in 3D printing.

$22.00
4% of budget
Kidde FA110 ABC Fire Extinguisher 2.5lb

Overview: Compact ABC dry chemical extinguisher rated for workshop fires.

Why it fits: Mandatory for safety at $22; makerspaces require it. Running total: $301 (remaining $399).

Comparisons: Same as $50 pro models but lighter gauge—fine for hobby use.

Pros

  • +Mountable bracket included
  • +5-year warranty
  • +Handles 90% print fires
  • +Easy pull-pin
  • +Compact 16" tall

Cons

  • -2.5lb discharge lasts 10s
  • -Messy powder residue
  • -Annual inspection needed
  • -Not for large fires

Upgrade Option: Kidde 5lb ($35) - Longer discharge for bigger spaces

Budget Alternative: Skip (not recommended) - High risk without

Check Price on Amazon
#4essentialSafety

Honeywell Uvex Bionic Face Shield Safety Goggles

Eye protection from hot nozzles, snaps, and fumes.

$10.00
2% of budget
Honeywell Uvex Bionic Face Shield Safety Goggles

Overview: ANSI-rated wraparound goggles with anti-fog lens.

Why it fits: Cheap essential at $10. Running total: $311 (remaining $389).

Comparisons: As protective as $30 Oakleys but basic foam seal.

Pros

  • +Clear wide view
  • +Adjustable strap
  • +Anti-fog/scratch
  • +Lightweight
  • +Universal fit

Cons

  • -No ventilation (fogs in humidity)
  • -Basic foam wears fast
  • -Not prescription

Upgrade Option: NoCry Anti-Fog Goggles ($20) - Ventilated for long sessions

Budget Alternative: Household glasses ($0) - Insufficient protection

Check Price on Amazon
#5recommendedTools

Creality 3D Printer Tool Kit (16pcs)

Daily maintenance for cleaning, unclogging, and part removal.

$20.00
4% of budget
Creality 3D Printer Tool Kit (16pcs)

Overview: Pliers, scrapers, needles, tweezers, spudger set.

Why it fits: Complete starter kit for $20. Running total: $331 (remaining $369).

Comparisons: Handles 95% tasks vs $50 pro kits.

Pros

  • +All-in-one pouch
  • +Stainless tools
  • +Nozzle brush included
  • +Beginner-friendly
  • +Durable case

Cons

  • -Plastic handles wear
  • -No hex drivers
  • -Basic scraper dulls

Upgrade Option: BIQU Professional Kit ($35) - Metal handles, extras

Budget Alternative: DIY household tools ($5) - Less precise

Check Price on Amazon
#6recommendedTools

NEIKO 01407A 6" Digital Caliper

Precision measuring for tolerances, nozzle checks, and part QA.

$17.00
3% of budget
NEIKO 01407A 6" Digital Caliper - Image 1 of 9

Overview: 0.01mm accuracy LCD caliper with thumb roller.

Why it fits: Essential metrology at budget price. Running total: $348 (remaining $352).

Comparisons: Mitutoyo-level accuracy for 10% cost.

Pros

  • +IP54 water-resistant
  • +Zero/set functions
  • +Stainless jaws
  • +Battery included
  • +Large display

Cons

  • -Plastic body flexes
  • -Battery cover loose
  • -No data output

Upgrade Option: Mitutoyo 500-196 ($120) - Carbide tips, lifetime warranty

Budget Alternative: Plastic caliper ($8) - 0.1mm inaccuracy

Check Price on Amazon
#7recommendedFilament Storage

SUNLU FilaDryer S2 Filament Dryer Box

Keeps filament dry to prevent print defects from moisture.

$40.00
7% of budget
SUNLU FilaDryer S2 Filament Dryer Box

Overview: Heats/dries one 1kg spool with hygrometer.

Why it fits: Prevents 50% failed prints for $40. Running total: $388 (remaining $312).

Comparisons: As effective as $100 eSun but single-spool.

Pros

  • +Fast 1hr dry
  • +Print-while-dry
  • +USB powered
  • +Accurate humidity
  • +Compact

Cons

  • -One spool only
  • -No multi-color
  • -Heats to 70C max

Upgrade Option: SUNLU S4 ($80) - 4 spools, faster

Budget Alternative: Ziplock + silica ($5) - Slower, less reliable

Check Price on Amazon
#8optionalEnclosure

Creality Ender 3 Enclosure

Traps heat/fumes for better prints and safety in makerspaces.

$65.00
12% of budget
Creality Ender 3 Enclosure

Overview: Fireproof nylon tent with zip doors, fits Ender 3.

Why it fits: Improves ABS/heat stability cheaply. Running total: $453 (remaining $247).

Comparisons: DIY zip-tie frame vs $200 aluminum.

Pros

  • +Quick setup
  • +Fire-resistant
  • +Cable ports
  • +Foldable
  • +Under $70

Cons

  • -Not rigid (wobbles)
  • -Zips wear
  • -Limited airflow

Upgrade Option: Elegoo Mars Enclosure ($120) - Rigid frame, fans

Budget Alternative: Cardboard DIY ($20) - Fire risk

Check Price on Amazon
#9optionalWorkspace

Lifetime 80160 48" Folding Table

Stable surface for printer, tools, and storage.

$55.00
10% of budget
Lifetime 80160 48" Folding Table

Overview: Adjustable height plastic-top folding table.

Why it fits: Sturdy hobby bench for $55. Running total: $508 (remaining $192).

Comparisons: Matches $150 IKEA but portable.

Pros

  • +Height adjustable 22-36"
  • +Legs lock
  • +48x24" space
  • +Lightweight 20lbs
  • +Indoor/outdoor

Cons

  • -Plastic top scratches
  • -No drawers
  • -Wobbles if uneven

Upgrade Option: SEDETA 55" Desk ($100) - Storage shelves

Budget Alternative: Use existing table ($0) - Space issues

Check Price on Amazon
#10recommendedAccessories

Creality PEI Textured Build Plate

Reusable print surface for better adhesion/release.

$25.00
4% of budget
Creality PEI Textured Build Plate

Overview: 235x235mm spring steel PEI sheet.

Why it fits: Upgrades stock bed for $25. Final total: $533 (buffer $167 for shipping/tax).

Comparisons: Stock glass replacement, lasts 1000+ prints.

Pros

  • +No glue needed
  • +Flex to remove
  • +Textured for grip
  • +Heat resistant
  • +Easy clean

Cons

  • -Wears after 500 prints
  • -Magnets separate
  • -Not magnetic on all beds

Upgrade Option: PEI Magnetic ($40) - Dual-sided

Budget Alternative: Stock glass ($0) - Glue required

Check Price on Amazon
#11nice-to-haveWorkspace

Neiko Self-Healing Cutting Mat 12x18"

Protects table when cutting supports/parts.

$12.00
2% of budget
Neiko Self-Healing Cutting Mat 12x18"

Overview: Double-sided green mat with measurements.

Why it fits: Cheap surface protection. Total still $545.

Comparisons: Standard hobby mat.

Pros

  • +Self-heals cuts
  • +Metric/imperial grids
  • +Non-slip
  • +Portable

Cons

  • -Thin (2mm)
  • -Edges curl

Upgrade Option: OLFA Extra Large ($25) - Thicker

Budget Alternative: Cardboard ($2) - Single use

Check Price on Amazon
#12recommendedSafety

Mechanix Wear Nitrile Gloves 50pk

Hand protection from hot parts and resins.

$13.00
2% of budget
Mechanix Wear Nitrile Gloves 50pk

Overview: Disposable chemical-resistant gloves.

Why it fits: Hygiene/safety add-on $13. Final: $558.

Comparisons: Better than latex for plastics.

Pros

  • +Powder-free
  • +Tear-resistant
  • +Large size fits
  • +Affordable pack

Cons

  • -Thin for heavy use
  • -Sizing runs large

Upgrade Option: Nitrile 100pk ($20) - Thicker

Budget Alternative: Skip ($0) - Skin contact risks

Check Price on Amazon

Start with the workspace: Unfold the Lifetime table, place the cutting mat, and secure the enclosure frame if using. Takes 5min.

Next, assemble the Ender 3 V3 SE (follow Creality app/video: 20-45min, need screwdriver/allen keys from toolkit). Install PEI sheet on bed, level if needed (auto mostly). Mount printer on table center for stability.

Organize: Place tools/caliper in enclosure pocket, load filament into dryer box (pre-dry 2hrs), connect USB to computer (free Cura slicer). Safety: Wall-mount extinguisher nearby, goggles/gloves ready. First print: G-code benchy model, 4-6hrs. Total setup: 2hrs. Tips: Ventilate room, never leave unattended, check belts/nozzles weekly.

Budget Tips

  • Buy printer + filament bundles on Amazon Prime for free shipping/deals.
  • Use free slicers like Cura/PrusaSlicer—no paid software needed.
  • Hunt AliExpress for tool kits 20% cheaper, but add 2-week shipping.
  • DIY enclosure with IKEA Lack table if skipping pre-made ($30 savings).
  • Buy used filament locally on Facebook Marketplace—test first.
  • Prioritize printer/safety; borrow table initially.
  • Monitor Micro Center/Walmart sales for printers under $200.
  • Leave 10% buffer for failed prints/taxes.

Common Mistakes

  • Buying the absolute cheapest printer ($100 knockoffs)—constant breakdowns cost more long-term.
  • Skipping safety gear—fires from overheated beds ruin setups and spaces.
  • Overloading on filament colors vs tools—leads to failed prints without maintenance.
  • No dry storage—humid filament wastes 30-50% material.
  • Ignoring workspace stability—wobbly tables cause shifts/failures.

Upgrade Roadmap

First upgrade the enclosure to a rigid framed one ($100-150) for stable ABS prints and noise reduction—biggest print quality boost. Next, swap to a faster printer like Bambu Lab P1S ($550) for 5x speed and AMS multi-color (~$400 after selling Ender). Then add a filament dryer station ($100) and laser engraver ($200) for makerspace expansion.

These matter most: Speed saves hours, enclosure enables advanced materials. Wait on fancy monitors ($300+) or metal printers ($1k+) until printing 10hrs/week. Total to pro setup: +$1,200 over 1-2 years.

Related Topics

budget 3d printing3d printing workshopunder 700makerspace setuphobbyist 3daffordable printerbudget tools3d workshopender3 budgetvalue setup
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