Is 3D Pen Safe for Kids? 3 Essential Safety Tips for Parents

A 3D pen lets you bring creativity to life by “drawing” in three dimensions. Using heated plastic that hardens as it cools, these pens let you build shapes, models, and art right in the air—no screens or printers required.

Unlike regular pens, which only write on paper, 3D pens let your imagination take shape in real, tangible ways. From vertical designs to intricate sculptures, they turn ideas into reality in minutes!

I. Key Safety Risks of 3D Pens

While 3D pens provide creative fun, they do pose some risks, primarily from the hot nozzle and melting plastic:

1. Burn Hazards

The hottest part lies right at the pen’s nozzle. Kids should never touch the tip after heating. Accidentally brushing up against your hand or face could cause a severe burn.

New users tend to go slower, which means more heat exposure to a particular spot. This increases the burn risk.

2. Fumes

Inhaling melting plastic fumes is a valid concern. Heated PLA plastic can produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) along with an unpleasant odor. 

While occasional use in a ventilated room poses a low risk, extensive exposure to plastic fumes could potentially cause breathing issues. People with asthma may be more sensitive.

3. Fire Risk

The high temperatures pose a fire hazard, especially around flammable materials. Kids should never use a 3D pen unattended or near papers, fabrics and other combustibles. 

II. Safety Tips for Using 3D Pens

While risks exist, don’t let it deter you. With proper precautions, 3D pens can be used safely. Here are our top safety recommendations:

1. Choose PCL Filaments

To buy a 3D printing pen for your child, you must choose a low temperature pen. The consumables used by the low-temperature 3D printing pen are PCL, and the consumables used by the high-temperature 3D printing pen are PLA. Here is a comprehensive comparison between PCL and PLA 3D pens for you.

PCL is an uncommon material, and the biggest feature of PCL consumables is that its melting point is only 60℃, which is far lower than PLA and ABS. In addition, PCL also has good biodegradability and biocompatibility which is both environmentally friendly and safe.

2. Recommended Ages

Most 3D pens specify children above 6 years old as the target age. However, maturity levels vary. Closely consider your child’s manual dexterity and responsible behavior.

A good benchmark is fine motor skills being developed enough for writing and scissors use. Very young kids can still participate with your hands guiding theirs on the pen.

3. Choose High-Quality 3D Pens

Avoid cheap 3D pens that overheat easily. Instead, opt for high-quality 3D pens available at reputable stores, which offer better temperature regulation and use safer PCL filaments. Investing in a reliable 3D pen ensures a safer and more enjoyable experience for your child.

Conclusion

Although it is said that some 3d printing pens can be dangerous for kids. Proper parental supervision and using low-temp pens with suitable materials can allow safe, creative use. With precautions, 3D pens can become an engaging way for kids to explore STEAM skills and imagination.

FAQs

Q: What are the potential dangers of 3D pens that parents should be aware of?

A: The main risks are burns from hot nozzles, eye strain from bright plastic, and ingestion/inhalation of odors. Supervise young kids and teach safe operation.

Q: What’s the ideal environment for kids to use a 3D pen safely?

A: Use in a well-ventilated area, provide an appropriate work surface, ensure adequate room to move the pen freely, and keep flammable materials away from the printing zone.

Q: How long should supervised 3D pen sessions last for young children?

A: Limit sessions to 15-30 minutes for kids under age 8. Take frequent breaks to prevent fatigue and eye strain. Gradually increase time as they gain experience.

See Also

How Safe is 3D Pen Plastic?

What Age is Appropriate for a 3D Pen?

PCL vs PLA 3D Pens: A Comparative Guide to Getting the Right 3D Pen