In this guide you'll learn about recycling failed prints to create DIY filament. Sustainable 3D printing saves you money and reduces waste.

Discarding your failed print may sound as easy as tossing them in the blue recycling bin, but most Recycling Centers don't accept failed prints since there is no manufacturing labels on them.

When 3D Printing becomes more than just a hobby, a whole lot of waste comes out of prototyping. Recycling bad prints helps lower the environmental impact on wasted plastic.

Filament extruders like the Filabot can recycle failed prints by crushing down small shredded pieces and allowing it to extrude out into recycled filament. You can make filament from standard, widely ­available plastic chips, or from recycled plastics from a variety of sources.

Tools & Supplies

• Filabot Extruder
• Super Scissors
• Hakko Precision Flat Pliers
• Fine Tip Curved Tweezers
• Digital Caliper
• Rubber Mallet
• Electric Lawn Chipper
• ESD Brush
• Tweezers