Faqs

Plastic

Which plastics can I use with the 3Doodler PRO?

The 3Doodler PRO can use ABS and PLA as well as Wood, FLEXY, Metal, Nylon, and Polycarbonate Strands. Each material has an optimum extrusion speed and temperature setting, as well as unique properties that offer unlimited possibilities. The 3Doodler Start plastic is not compatible with the 3Doodler PRO.

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. 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 and the PRO, our filaments vary in temperature, 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, the plastic is warm when extruded and is safe to touch, and the pen tip doesn't get hot. There is no risk of burns with the 3Doodler Start.

How strong is the plastic once 3Doodled?

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.

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. 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.

The 3Doodler Start Eco-Plastics are 100% eco-friendly and non-toxic, and so there are absolutely no fumes.

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 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 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 3mm plastic strands.

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

We also only recommend using official 3Doodler Plastics.

Can I reuse or recycle 3Doodler plastic?

Please do not reinsert extruded filament back into any pen. However, we have seen users make magnificent artwork from plastic scraps! The filaments listed below are able to be recycled or composted.

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

3Doodler PRO: Nylon, Polycarbonate, and Metal filaments 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?

No. The 3Doodler only works with 3mm plastic. Plastics cannot (and should not) be combined. As we have mentioned elsewhere, 3Doodler should only be used with 3Doodler strands (which are specifically sized and configured for optimal use with the 3Doodler). 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 the correct products with your Pen and your DoodlePad, please check here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

COMPATIBLE: ABS, PLA, Nylon, Polycarbonate

NOT COMPATIBLE: FLEXY, Wood, Nylon, Metal, Eco-Plastic

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!

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...

Can I use the Doodlepad with all of the PRO Filaments?

The Create Doodlepad IS NOT compatible with Flexy, Wood or Metal.

Note that these filaments will leave residue on your DoodlePad. Masking tape will get most of the pieces off, but using them may still damage your DoodlePad.

You can use the Create DoodlePad with all other PRO filaments.

Please ensure you are not using the 3Doodler Start DoodlePad, which is not compatible with the Create, the PRO, or their accessories. You can reference the compatibility chart here to make sure: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

Can I use the Create/2.0 Jetpack with my 3Doodler PRO?

No. You must use the new model of the JetPack with the 3Doodler PRO. The new Jetpack uses 5V/2A, whereas the older model of the JetPack uses 5V/1.2A and cannot power the PRO. The 3Doodler PRO requires the new model of the JetPack. The amperage is listed on the underside of the JetPack if there is any confusion.

The new version of the JetPack is compatible with the 2.0 and the Create.

Both the older model of the JetPack and the new model have an MAH reading of 4400.

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 is 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 3Doodling! It takes time to master the 3Doodler, 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 did my 3Doodler PRO stop after 5 minutes of reversing?

The 3Doodler PRO automatically stops after 5 minutes of reversing. This should be plenty of time for all of the filament to reverse out of the pen.

Why did my 3Doodler PRO stop after 10 minutes of extrusion?

The 3Doodler PRO automatically stops after 10 minutes of continuous extrusion, just like the 3Doodler Create. This is a safety feature. You can simply press the extrusion button again to continue Doodling.

Which part of the 3Doodler PRO is not safe for me to touch?

There should be a warning sticker on the front of the pen indicating the HOT ZONE. The front nose cone of the pen gets very HOT. Anything forward of the buttons is a HOT ZONE. Please do not touch these areas or you may be burned, and please keep out of reach of children at all times.

Where is the 3Doodler PRO Manual?

The PRO manual is all online in the form of user setup videos and other documentation. We plan to keep evolving and updating the the user setup videos and online resources on a frequent basis, hence the decision to take the PRO manual “virtual.”

You can find the text version of the PRO manual here: http://learn.the3doodler.com/manuals

What kind of maintenance is required?

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

What does the flashing light mean on the PRO?

When the temperature is adjusting to a new setting, the LCD will flash. Once the pen has reached the target temperature, the LED will be a solid blue.

What age group is the 3Doodler PRO recommended for?

The PRO is safe for ages 14+, but we strongly recommend the 3Doodler PRO only for more advanced users. What do we mean that? In short, users who have used and are comfortable with the 3Doodler Create, technical users who have experience with 3D printing and other mechanical devices, or users with a professional or vocational background that requires a more advanced 3D printing pen. The PRO is not a toy, and you, or the person you are buying for, may be better suited to and have a better experience with the 3Doodler Create.

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 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 PRO safe for children?

No. Please keep the 3Doodler PRO out of reach of children.

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 PRO to warm up?

It shouldn’t take more than a few minutes. The LCD display will show the current temperature in solid numbers and the desired temperature in flashing numbers.

How is the 3Doodler PRO different than the 3Doodler Create?

The 3Doodler PRO allows you adjust everything: speed, fan strength, and temperature. These variables mean that the PRO can handle materials that the Create cannot, including Wood, Nylon, Copper, Bronze, and Polycarbonate. The PRO features a carbon fibre body with a silicone comfort grip. The pen features an LCD screen to show you exactly what settings you are operating on, and the display can change between Celsius and Fahrenheit.

How does one charge the 3Doodler?

The 3Doodler Create and PRO need to be plugged in in order to function. The PRO comes with a JetPack that, once fully charged, will allow the pen to be used wirelessly. The JetPack plugs into a wall socket and charges in about 3 hours. The JetPack is also available as a separately sold accessory for the 3Doodler Create.

The 3Doodler Start can be charged, however, as it has an internal battery. For more information about that, please see the 3Doodler Start FAQ section.

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 switch the display from Celsius to Fahrenheit on the PRO?

There is a tiny hole located underneath the LCD display screen where you can insert a paperclip (and press down) to switch the temperature display from Celsius to Fahrenheit. The temperature rating defaults to Celsius.

How do I switch between filaments properly with the PRO?

There are two buttons on the 3Doodler PRO. The circular button is for extrusion, and the triangular button is for reversing. A single click of either button will initiate its respective function. Another click of either button will stop extrusion or reversal.

If the material is long enough you can reverse it out by pressing the reverse button once, then pulling the strand out once fully reversed. If the material is not long enough to do this, you can remove the nozzle (always with the pen on and heated) and insert the thin unblocking tool through the nozzle end of the device. This will push the filament out through the rear.

When clearing the pen, keep the pen at the temperature of the last material used, allowing all of the previous filament to extrude fro the nozzle, before switching to the new temperature.

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 remove the nozzle on the 3Doodler PRO?

To remove the nozzle of the 3Doodler PRO you must have the pen turned on and heated to at least 180 degrees Celsius. Using the nozzle set holder (which has a nozzle removal tool built into it), unscrew the nozzle in a counterclockwise direction.

When replacing the nozzle, make sure the pen is at least 180 degrees Celsius and screw it back on with the nozzle set holder in a clockwise direction. Do not over-tighten the nozzle when replacing it. Stop tightening as soon as you feel resistance so as to avoid over-tightening and breaking off the threaded pen tip.

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 know when a new temperature is set on the PRO?

When the temperature is adjusting to a new setting, the LCD will flash. Once the pen has reached the target temperature, the LCD will stop flashing and the LED will be solid blue.

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 Create 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 do I adjust the temperature on the PRO?

On the end of the pen are two dials with a (+) and a (-) at either end. The innermost ring adjusts the temperature setting. By rocking the ring in the direction of the (+) or (-) you will increase or decrease the temperature by increments of 5 degrees. When changing the temperature setting, the new target temperature will temporarily be reflected on the LCD screen. It will then display whatever setting you are currently operating on as it moves towards the target temperature. The LED will turn blue when the target temperature is reached.

How do I adjust the fan setting on the 3Doodler PRO?

The fan can be set to OFF, LO, or HI, and will adjust the rate that the material is cooled after being extruded from the pen. The higher the fan setting, the faster the material cools and hardens.

How do I adjust the extrusion speed on the 3Doodler PRO?

On the end of the pen are two dials with a (+) and a (-) at either end. The outermost dial adjusts the extrusion speed. By rocking the rings in the direction of either the (+) or (-) you will increase or decrease the speed. The new speed will be displayed on the LCD screen. Adjustments towards the (+) will take the pen to a maximum speed of 8. Adjustments towards the (-) will take the pen to a minimum speed of 1. The slower the material extrudes, the faster it will harden. If you change the speed setting, the new speed will show on the LCD for a few seconds as the pen adjusts.

Each material for the 3Doodler PRO has an optimum extrusion speed and temperature, but you can adjust them to get the exact flow that you’re looking for.

How can the 3Doodler PRO be used for repairs?

The 3Doodler 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, this is quite handy for makers who are using traditional 3D printers. With the 3Doodler PRO, the wood filament can be used to repair holes in wood, and it can be sanded and stained!

If you are having trouble bonding one like plastic to another, simply press the hot nozzle against the part you are trying to attach to for a few seconds longer. This helps it melt a little so that it can bond with the new material.

For the 3Doodler PRO, what settings are best for the various filaments?

PLA - Temp: 195C - 220C (383F - 428F) / Speed: 3-5
METAL - Temp: 180C - 200C (356F - 392F) / Speed: 3-6
WOOD - Temp: 170C - 200C (338F - 392F) / Speed: 3-6
ABS - Temp: 200C - 240C (392F - 464F) / Speed: 3-6
FLEXY - Temp: 200C - 230C (392F - 446F) / Speed: 2-5
NYLON - Temp: 200C - 225C (392F - 437F) / Speed: 3-6
POLYCARBONATE - Temp: 240C (464F) / Speed: 5-8

Does the 3Doodler make much noise?

The 3Doodler Start is very quiet, barely making any noise when it is in operation.

The fan in the 3Doodler Create does makes some noise.

The fan in the 3Doodler PRO will make some noise when turned to LOW, a bit more noise when turned to HIGH, and very little to no noise when turned to OFF.

Can the 3Doodler print toffee, chocolate, sugar, etc?

No, it cannot. Only official 3Doodler plastics can be used with 3Doodler pens.

To ensure you are using the right plastics with your 3Doodler pen, please feel free to view our comprehensive compatibility chart here: www.the3doodler.com/compatibility

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 3Doodlers 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 3Doodle on skin?

Please don't try to draw on skin with the 3Doodler Create or the 3Doodler PRO! 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 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?

Please try unplugging your 3Doodler and plugging it back in. Note that after several minutes of being turned on, the 3Doodler goes into “standby mode” and will stay red until the device is unplugged and plugged back in. 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 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 LED turned red and the motor stopped on my 3Doodler PRO. What now?

If you use a material at too low a temperature, or too high a speed, the LED will turn red and the motor will stop. If you are experiencing this, turn the speed or fan down or up accordingly.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our friendly customer service team by emailing [email protected]

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

You should use the fast setting when loading a new strand of plastic, and always give it some time. If need be, give the plastic a firm push 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 the 3Doodler PRO?

First remove the nozzle (with the pen turned on and heated up) and insert the thin unblocking tool into the nozzle-end of the pen. Ensure that the temperature is set appropriately for the specific filament that is clogging the pen. The aim here is to push any material inside of the pen out through feed port.

If this doesn't work, please insert the thick unblocking tool in through the feed port of the PRO, with the nozzle still removed.

Do not force material out of the pen. If it is not flowing smoothly try adjusting the speed or temperature, and always reference the recommended settings for each material.

If you’re still having issues after trying this, please contact us at [email protected] and we will be happy to help you troubleshoot your device.