Faqs

What's New

Why didn’t you know that Wood filament could be used with the Create+ sooner?

Two words: continuous improvement! We are always pushing for more possibilities and options for our community. We have been devoting tons of time to extensively testing Wood filament with the Create+. Also, keep in mind the Create+ was only launched in June of 2018.

What mode should my Create+ be in when using Wood filament?

Wood filament is best used on the PLA setting and in SLOW mode with the Create+.

What is the difference between the Create+ and the previous versions, the Create and 2.0?

The all new Create+ is completely re-engineered to give you an ultra smooth and enhanced Doodling experience.

Improvements include a world-first dual drive system, greater control in fast/slow speeds for different Doodling techniques, more reliable performance with different 3Doodler plastic types (now 99% free of jamming issues), and greater durability.

What happens if I’m using Wood filament in the Create+ and it gets stuck?

You can give the Wood strand a nudge forward, and the small amount of pressure should help. If the strand inside the pen is small, then please feed another strand behind it to get it flowing again.

What are the NEW functions of the Create+?

The all new Create+ is completely re-engineered to give you an ultra smooth and unrivaled Doodling experience. It has the world's first dual drive system, greater control in fast and slow speeds, and more reliable performance with all 3Doodler plastic types (ABS, PLA, FLEXY, and WOOD). In addition, the Create+ pen is now 99% free of jamming issues, and has greater durability.

I saw that you recently announced Wood filament can be used with the Create+. Does this mean the Create too?

Sorry, no! Wood filament is not recommended to be used with the Create.

I bought the 3Doodler PRO for use with Wood filament. Can I get a refund now that you have a cheaper pen option that uses Wood filament?

We totally get how you feel. Though Wood can be used with the Create+, it is not optimized with that pen. The PRO allows you to draw in the air with Wood, and you can use other materials like Nylon and the Metal. This promotes a very different experience. Those other materials cannot be used with the Create+.

Can I use the current Create/Create+ DoodlePad with the Wood filament?

Of course! Just flip to the back side of the DoodlePad. Your creations will get stuck on the front side if you Doodle in Wood on it!

Are the 2.0/Create accessories and plastics compatible with the Create+?

Yes! The Create and 2.0 plastics and accessories are ALL compatible with the new 3Doodler Create+ pens.

Wood filament, however, is only compatible with the Create+ and the PRO, and not the Create or 2.0 pens.

Plastic

Which plastic should I choose? ABS or PLA?

For those who are new to plastics and want maximum flexibility with their 3Doodler we suggest starting with ABS and then experimenting with PLA.

What plastics can I use with the 3Doodler Create?

The 3Doodler Create is compatible with official 3Doodler ABS, PLA, and FLEXY filaments. Please do not try to use the 3Doodler Create with any third party filaments, or 3Doodler filaments exclusively for the 3Doodler PRO or the 3Doodler Start.

Please note that Wood filament is only compatible with the Create+ and the PRO.

What are the melting temperatures for ABS, PLA, and FLEXY in the Create/Create+?

Please note the following temperature ranges that the Create and Create+ pens melt filaments at:

PLA: 180-190 C / 356-374 F
ABS/FLEXY: 200-220 C / 392-428 F

What about the toxicity of ABS and PLA plastics?

As far as we are aware, neither plastics are harmful in the form provided, nor in the use-cases (and temperatures) applied using 3Doodler pens.

The plastic is moving slowly. What do I do?

Sometimes when you get to the end of one strand, extrusion slows noticeably. Put a new strand into the back of the 3Doodler pen. If it still extrudes very slowly (or not at all), try giving the new one a little nudge down, and that should do the trick!

The 3Doodler sometimes makes a slight crackling sound while extruding. Is this normal?

Yes. This is caused by moisture escaping from the plastic strands (that has been caught in the strand since fabrication). This is not dangerous or a cause for concern!

Is the plastic hot when it comes out of the pen?

For the Create+, our filaments vary in temperature but get very hot, so we do not recommend touching the plastic within 5 seconds of it coming out of the pen. Please do not touch the pen tip when it is hot, as it can cause burns.

For the 3Doodler Start and 3D Build & Play, the plastic is warm when extruded and is safe to touch, and the pen tip doesn't get hot. There is burn risk with the 3Doodler Start or the 3D Build & Play.

How strong is the plastic once Doodled?

The flexibility and strength of your creation is really up to you. To make stronger Doodles that are able to act as supporting structures, or withstand active play, make pieces thicker by going back and forth over the same area, or Doodle very slowly to make a thick strand that will be less flexible.

If you move the pen faster and Doodle thinner strands of plastic, you will make flexible pieces. While still not easy to break, they won’t be able to support the weight of other objects.

How does the pen work with PLA and ABS plastic considering they melt at different temperatures?

PLA melts at a lower temperature than ABS, so we have designed the pen to have two temperature settings, to accommodate material in use at the time of 3Doodling. Please be sure to use the correct setting with the plastic you are using! If you have any questions about it, please feel free to email our friendly customer service team at [email protected]

Does ABS shrink?

ABS does have some shrinkage post extrusion, but it is a fraction of a fraction of a percent, so you won’t even notice it.

Does 3Doodler plastic emit harmful fumes?

3Doodler plastics have been tested for heavy metals, and have undergone full toxicological risk assessments, passing each and every test. Some users notice a slight "plasticy" smell when using ABS. Many users prefer the smell of PLA, which, being corn based, can smell like popcorn or syrup. No matter what material you're using, and whether you're using a 3Doodler or a traditional 3D printer, we recommend working in a ventilated area.

To ensure you are using the right plastics for your 3Doodler, please feel free to check out our compatibility chart here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

Can the 3Doodler pen use conductive ABS plastic?

We haven't had the time to test conductive plastic yet, but another way of doing this would be to use conductive paint with your 3Doodles.

As we have mentioned elsewhere, 3Doodler pens should only be used with filament approved by us. Use of other materials not approved by us may result in damage to your pen or injury to you, and will unfortunately void your warranty.

Can I use other plastics instead of what you sell?

No. The 3Doodler plastic was specially developed for the 3Doodler pens. It’s not possible to use other brands or types of plastic in your 3Doodler.

To ensure you are using the right plastics for your 3Doodler pen, please check our comprehensive compatibility chart here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

Can I use 1.75mm plastic?

No, the 3Doodler Create+ and the PRO+ can only be used with 3Doodler-branded 3mm plastic strands.

Likewise, the 3Doodler Start is only compatible with 3Doodler-branded Start Eco-Plastics, which are 2.5mm in diameter.

Can I reuse or recycle 3Doodler plastic?

Please do not reinsert extruded filament back into any pen. We have, however, seen users make magnificent artwork from plastic scraps, so you can save them for a project like that! Note that the filaments listed below are able to be recycled or composted.

3Doodler Create+: ABS and PLA are recyclable (number 7 recyclables). PLA and Wood are compostable in industrial composters.

3Doodler PRO+: Nylon and Metal are recyclable (number 7 recyclables). Wood filament is compostable in industrial composters.

3Doodler Start: All 3Doodler Start Eco-Plastic are eco-friendly, biodegradable and non-toxic. They can be composted in your back yard!

Can I paint over doodles with acrylic or some other media?

Yes you can! And you can do so almost immediately as the plastic cools and hardens very quickly after leaving the pen. As long as the paint you are using can adhere to plastic, it can help enhance your Doodles. Whichever paint you use, we recommend testing it on a small Doodle first to ensure that you get the desired result.

If you are under the age of 14, please check with an adult first before using any paint product.

Can I insert two strands of 1.75mm plastic side by side into the 3Doodler pen?

No. The 3Doodler Create+ and PRO+ pens only work with 3mm plastic. Plastics cannot (and should not) be combined. As we have mentioned elsewhere, 3Doodler pens should only be used with 3Doodler-branded strands (which are specifically sized and configured for optimal use with 3Doodler pens). Use of other materials not approved by us may result in damage to your pen or injury to you, and will void your warranty.

Accessories

Why is the plastic not coming off of my Create+/PRO+ DoodlePad?

We have two DoodlePads available, one for the Create+ and the PRO+, and one for the Start. To ensure you are using compatible products, please check here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

Compatible: ABS, PLA, NYLON (PRO+ pen only)

Compatible on Backside of DoodlePad Only: FLEXY, WOOD, Metal (PRO+ pen only)

Not Compatible: Start Plastic (Start DoodlePad only)

Do not press the nozzle directly onto the DoodlePad, as filament may adhere to the surface. You can bend the DoodlePad to easily pop your Doodles off. Sometimes, Doodles may need to be removed with a putty knife. Doodles might become damaged in the removal process, and they may require mending.

If you have any difficulties removing your Doodles, please contact our customer support at [email protected] and we be happy to assist you!

What is the Nozzle Set?

The Nozzle Set is made up of two main items:

1. The Nozzle holder, which also doubles as a nozzle removal tool.

2. Six different nozzles, including a ribbon tip, square tip, triangle tip, a super fine 0.5mm nozzle, and thicker 1mm and 1.5mm nozzles.

What is the DoodleStand?

The DoodleStand is the perfect place to store your 3Doodler Create (or 2.0) between creative sessions. More than just a stand, it is a lovely place to store your filaments for easy access during 3Doodling sessions!

How does the foot pedal work?

Created specifically for more versatile 3Doodling, the pedal connects to the 3Doodler to give you the freedom to Doodle from various angles and for longer periods of time, without holding down the pen’s extrusion buttons.

The long cable coming from the Pedal connects to the control port on the 3Doodler, which is located next to the On/Off switch.

Put your foot down, and Doodle on, and on, and on...

Are different sized nozzles available?

The 3Doodler Create+ is compatible with the Nozzle Set, which is sold separately through our website.

The 3Doodler PRO+ comes with a 6 piece interchangeable nozzle set of different sizes and shapes.

The 3Doodler Start is not compatible with the nozzle set.

To view our comprehensive compatibility chart, please visit this link here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

Use

Why is plastic still coming out after I have stopped the feeding mechanism?

A small amount of oozing after the motor has stopped running is normal. If you believe that your pen is extruding more than the usual amount of filament after the pen has stopped feeding, please contact our customer service team by emailing [email protected] and we will be more than happy to promptly assist you.

Why don’t my Doodles look like those in the video, or on the box?

Practice makes perfect, even when Doodling! It takes time to master a 3Doodler pen, but don’t let this stop you! Think outside the box and let your imagination take off. You'll be surprised by how quickly your 3Doodling skills evolve.

Why does the light briefly go red while I am 3Doodling?

Your 3Doodler is functioning normally. The pausing is caused by the pen heating up to stay at the optimal temperature. The 3Doodler needs to pause while doing this. Wait a few seconds and keep Doodling!

What kind of maintenance is required?

The 3Doodler does not require much in the way of maintenance. Please see our other FAQs in the event of feed issues or jams, or feel free to contact us by emailing here: [email protected]

My dog chewed on the power cord! How do I get it replaced?

You should be able to get one at your local electronics store.

For the 3Doodler Create+ (and the Create/2.0), take the pen you have with you and ask for a 5V, 1.2A replacement with the same DC connector.

For the 3Doodler PRO+, take the pen you have with you and ask for a 5V, 2A replacement with the same DC connector.

The 3Doodler Start works with a micro USB cable, so you can find one at your local electronics store, or you may already have one at your house!

Is 3Doodler Create safe for children?

The 3Doodler is NOT a toy for children (it’s for ages 14+). It has a metal tip that can get as hot as 240C.

I was wondering, is the 3Doodler also for lefties?

Yes! All the 3Doodler pens are ambidextrous pens. One of the inventors is a leftie!

I used a strand of plastic, reversed it, and then decided to change colors. Can I reuse the original strand of unused plastic?

Yes of course, but before inserting the used strand into the 3Doodler, please cut the tip of the strand so that it has a clean edge. This will help prevent jamming and other issues.

How long does it take the 3Doodler Create to warm up?

It take the 3Doodler Create approximately one minute to warm up. If you have turned the pen to the HI setting, the light will turn blue when it is heated up. If you have turned the pen to the LO setting, the light will turn green when it is heated up.

How long can the 3Doodler be used continuously?

Your 3Doodler is a sturdy and awesome tool, but like any mechanical device it needs a break now and then. We suggest giving it a 30 minute break after every 2 hours of continuous use.

How does one charge the 3Doodler Create+?

The 3Doodler Create+ needs to be plugged in in order to function. The 3Doodler Create+ JetPack is a portable battery pack that, once fully charged, will allow the Create+ to be used on the go. The JetPack charges via USB, and can take up to 3 hours to charge.

How do you know when you need to load more plastic into the pen?

The pen will generally stop extruding plastic or you will notice a marked slowdown in the extrusion speed. Just add a new strand, give it a gentle nudge if needed, and your 3Doodler should start extruding again. The last bit of the previous strand will extrude before the new strand begins to.

How do I start drawing in the air?

Start by “anchoring” your Doodle to a surface. Any sheet of paper works! Feed the filament, and press the nozzle down onto the paper until you see a little blob of plastic come out, and ensure the plastic is sticking to the paper. You can now freely lift off the page! Once you have reached the height you want, stop feeding the filament, and hold the plastic in place for a few seconds to allow it to harden (10-15 seconds with the 3Doodler Start, and about 3 seconds with the 3Doodler Create+ or PRO+). Start slow, don’t Doodle too high, and gradually work your way to the stars!

How do I know which 3Doodler products are compatible with what 3Doodler pens?

You can view a comprehensive compatibility chart here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

How do I get plastic to stick to paper?

If you are having trouble, you may need to press the pen more firmly into the paper. Think of the 3Doodler like a pen. In order for the "ink" to hit the paper, the tip of the pen must touch the paper. We recommend creating an "anchor" with the filament by pressing down into the paper until you can see a little blob, making sure the plastic is anchored to the paper. Then you can freely lift off the page or move around.

How do I clear hardened plastic from inside the nozzle of my 3Doodler?

Try carefully feeding the threaded part of the nozzle onto the 3Doodler pen when it is turned on and heated up. Please use the included mini wrench in order to avoid burns. Even if the tip can’t be threaded on fully, the heat from the pen itself will soften the clogged filament inside of the nozzle. After a minute or so, the filament should be softened enough to screw the nozzle fully onto the pen. If you still need assistance, please contact our customer service team at [email protected] and we will be more than happy to assist you.

How can the 3Doodler Create+ be used for repairs?

The 3Doodler pen can be used as a plastic welding tool. If you have something made of ABS plastic (the most common form of plastic) you can repair it with the 3Doodler. For example, two broken parts can be welded back together by “drawing” a plastic weld where the parts are broken. In addition to household repairs, we expect this to be especially handy for makers who are using traditional 3D printers. So far, we've seen it used to repair vacuum cleaners, eyeglass frames and 3D prints. Let us know what you've been able to fix!

Does the 3Doodler Create work on 220 volts?

The 3Doodler Create works on the following specs:

Input: 100-240 volts

Does the 3Doodler Create have variable speeds?

Yes! The 3Doodler Create has two speeds, fast and slow. These determine the flow of the plastic and allow you to doodle large items and fill a large area at pace, or doodle intricate and delicate details (as well as drawing in the air). You can switch between the two speeds by choosing to press either the FAST button or SLOW doodle button on the body of the pen.

Can I leave the plastic in the pen when I turn the pen off?

Please don't! We've found that leaving warm plastic in the pen accelerates the degradation of the plastic and can cause issues with the pen over time.

Can I hook a spool of plastic up to the 3Doodler?

3Doodler plastics are cut to a specific length and straight cut. We are not able to verify the quality or source of third party materials, and the 3Doodler Warranty is limited to 3Doodler-approved plastics. Likewise, the curvature in the spools will cause irreparable damage to 3Doodler pens since the feeding mechanisms are designed for straight cut filaments.

To see which 3Doodler filaments are compatible with the 3Doodler pen you have, please check our comprehensive compatibility chart here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

Can I Doodle on skin?

Please don't try to draw on skin with the 3Doodler Create+. You’ll burn yourself!

The 3Doodler Start Eco-Plastic is completely safe for skin contact, making it the perfect tool for creating wearable creations such as jewelry, masks, glasses, and even earrings! The 3Doodler Start nozzle may be uncomfortable for some, so we don't recommend pressing the nozzle directly on skin. Please take care not to get the warm Eco-Plastic in your hair as it will be very hard to remove.

Troubleshooting

Why is there a teal light when I turn my pen on?

If you see a teal light, please unplug the power source from the pen and then plug the power source back in. In most cases, this should return the pen to normal. If it does not work, then please email us at [email protected] and we will be more than happy to assist you!

Why is the light on my 3Doodler blinking red?

If you are experiencing a flashing red light with your 3Doodler, please contact our Customer Service team by emailing [email protected] and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Why is the light on my 3Doodler always red?

Note that after several minutes of being turned on, if left idle, the 3Doodler pen goes into “standby mode” and will stay red until the device is made active again. From "standby mode" you can make the device active by clicking the feed button once, or turning the pen off, then on again. If your light is still remaining red after this please contact our friendly customer service team at [email protected] and we will be more than happy to assist you.

Why is my 3Doodler Create having difficulty feeding PLA?

PLA feeding issues are often corrected by adjusting the temperature manually. Try lowering the heat by inserting the mini screwdriver into the temperature adjustment hole (located next to the On/Off switch), and turning it 90 degrees counter-clockwise. If you continue to have PLA feeding issues please contact our customer service team by emailing us here: [email protected]

Why can’t I feed Flexy in my 3Doodler Create?

Flexy strand can expand from the heat of the pen, making it more difficult to feed. Try cutting the end of the strand at a 45 degree angle, and use the pen on slow mode. That should make it easier to feed. If you still have issues feeding Flexy, please contact our customer service team by emailing us here: [email protected]

Why are my pen’s buttons not functioning as intended?

If your buttons aren’t functioning as intended, please contact our Customer Service team by emailing [email protected] and we will be more than happy to assist you.

The tip of my pen broke off, and I can no longer attach the nozzle!

Kindly note that the 3Doodler instructions explicitly say that you should carefully change the pen tip when it is plugged in, on, and fully heated up. Doing this may prevent the pen tip from breaking in the future. Unfortunately we don’t have a way to repair pens with broken tips, but if you are covered by our warranty we will happily replace your device. Please contact our customer service team by emailing us at [email protected] and we will get that taken care of for you.

My pen is not ‘gripping’ the plastic. It seems like I really have to force it. What gives?

If need be, once the pen is turned on and feeding forward, give the plastic strand a firm push into the pen to help the 3Doodler ‘grip’ it.

If you still have difficulties, please contact our friendly customer service team by emailing here: [email protected]

How do I unclog plastic stuck in my 3Doodler Create?

Try the following tip to unblock your 3Doodler Create. Make sure your pen is turned on and fully heated up. Once it is, carefully remove the nozzle with the mini wrench. After it has been removed, insert the cleaning rod in through the pen tip while the reverse function is engaged. This should push the strand out of the back of the pen, thus clearing any clogs. If you still need assistance, please contact our customer service team at [email protected] and we will be more than happy to assist you.