I. Introduction

While you can buy mass-produced safes and lockboxes, 3D printing allows you to create a customized mini safe tailored to your specific needs.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to design and 3D print a mini safe box to keep your prized possessions safely secured.

Where to find it? strongbox

II. Choose a Durable Filament for Security

The first step in 3D printing a safe box is selecting a rugged, high-strength material. You want the walls to be as tough and drill-resistant as possible. Three great options are:

1. ABS

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a durable plastic used widely for functional parts. It's impact-resistant, stable at higher temperatures, and creates a smooth exterior when properly finished. The layer adhesion for ABS can also make drilling through the walls more difficult.

2. PETG

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-Modified) has excellent chemical resistance and durability comparable to ABS while being less prone to cracking and warping during printing. It’s also food-safe. 

3. Carbon Fiber Composites

Carbon fiber reinforced filaments have short carbon fibers embedded in the material for exceptional strength and rigidity. The carbon fiber greatly increases the effort required to drill through the print.

For the highest drill-resistance, carbon fiber PETG combines the benefits of PETG with enhanced security from carbon fiber reinforcement.

III. Pick a Secure Locking Method

The locking mechanism is arguably the most critical security component for your printed safe box. Here are some options to keep your valuables protected:

1. Hinges vs Sliding Lid

A hinged lid with latch allows incorporating standard locks secured with a hasp. But a box with a sliding lid has less weak points versus drilling/prying attacks.

2. Key Locks

Standard key locks can be securely mounted to a hasp on hinged boxes. Choose small form factors that fit your box dimensions.

3. Combination Locks

For keyless access, dial combination locks provide numeric security. No keys to lose!

4. Magnetic Closures

Powerful neodymium magnets let you securely seal the box with instant access and visual intrusion detection. No separate locks needed!

IV. Design Hidden Compartments

Building hidden areas into your 3D printed safe adds another layer of security. Here are two approaches:

1. False Bottoms or Sides

Interior false bottoms or false side walls create concealed compartments accessible only to those who know the box’s secret!

2. Removable Dividers

Inserts or dividers that are removable only in a certain order can hide areas and valuables in plain sight.

False hides based on your box dimensions can be modeled in CAD before printing.

3D Print of Safe Box with Lockable Door (photo: MyMiniFactory)

V. Design the Door of Safety Box

Personalizing the outward appearance of your printed safe makes it unique and can further enhance security:

Here is a nice design of a safe door, plus a partly functional mechanism.

General settings:

• wheel code: (0.2mm) (20%) (support)
• all gears: (0.2mm) (20%)
• front wheel + other: (0.2mm) (20%) (support)
• stem + blocking: (0.2mm) (20%) (support)
• small piece 2: (0.16mm) (20%)
• front of the door: (0.2mm) (30%)
• side door: (0.2mm) (20%) (support)
• rear door: (0.2mm) (30%)
• side door: (0.2mm) (20%)
• door plug: (0.2mm) (20%)

Where to find it? safe-deposit box door

VI. Finishing Techniques of Mini Safe Box

Applying finishes can improve appearance, security, and functionality:

1. Sanding and Painting

Smooth the print with fine sanding and add spray paints in desired colors to match your décor.

2. Staining

Use your favorite colors to draw your favorite patterns on printed boxes for a personalized and creative finish.

3. Hydrographic Printing

Immersion hydrographic printing applies graphic films for unique designs.

4. Rubberized Coating

Plasti-Dip style rubberized coatings add grip and drop protection.

STL file Safe box with custom password (photo: Cults 3D)

VII. Conclusion

Use the tips in this guide to choose durable materials, incorporate customized and concealed compartments, select secure locks, and finish your printed safe box uniquely. Your prized possessions will be protected from harm in your own personalized 3D printed safe!

FAQS

1. What’s the most secure material for printing a safe box?

Carbon fiber reinforced filaments provide the most drill-resistance and strength for 3D printing secure boxes. Carbon fiber PETG is an excellent durable option.

2. What if I don’t have a lock for my printed safe?

Powerful neodymium magnets let you securely seal the box without a separate lock. The lid connects tightly but can be removed with force.

3. How can I disguise my 3D printed safe?

Print customizable graphics like faux book covers directly onto your safe box to disguise it as an everyday object and hide its purpose.

See Also

How to Design and 3D Print a Guitar

How to Create Articulated 3D Print

30 Coolest and Most Useful 3D Prints You Can Make in 2023