Nowadays, it can feel like the only gadgets that capture a teenager’s attention are a mobile phone or tablet. That’s why we were pleasantly surprised by the SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen, a creative gadget that quickly had our teen putting their screen down and getting stuck into making something.
The pen works more like a hot glue gun than a traditional printer. Simply feed in a strand of PLA filament, allow it to heat to the correct temperature and it extrudes a thin ribbon of plastic that cools and hardens almost instantly. The result? You can draw in the air, trace stencils or build layer by layer to create genuine 3D models rather than flat drawings.
Despite looking quite chunky in photos, the pen is surprisingly lightweight, making it comfortable to use during longer crafting sessions. The built-in LCD display is another thoughtful feature, clearly showing both the temperature and extrusion speed, so it’s easy to keep an eye on the settings without any guesswork.
The SCRIB3D P1 comes with three colours of PLA filament, giving you everything you need to get started straight out of the box. We also found the ceramic nozzle to be a real plus. Compared with some cheaper metal alternatives, it delivered smoother, more consistent lines with fewer interruptions from clogging.
As with any heated craft tool, the nozzle becomes hot during use, so adult supervision is recommended despite the 14+ age guidance. Setting up on a protected surface or craft mat before getting started is also a good idea.
What we loved most was that this isn’t just another gadget that gets used once before being forgotten. It’s hands-on, creative and just the right amount of messy, producing finished pieces that our teen was genuinely proud of. From personalised gifts and room decorations to keyrings and phone accessories, it’s easy to see how the projects can evolve as confidence grows, making it a hobby that lasts well beyond the initial novelty.
At £39.99, the SCRIB3D P1 3D Printing Pen offers excellent value for creative teens who enjoy making, designing and experimenting. If you’re looking for a gift that encourages imagination while providing a welcome break from screens, this is one we’d happily recommend.
The SCRIB3D P1 pen is priced £39.99 and available from Smyths, Very and Argos.
