We’ve been curious to try a 3D pen for ages, so we were thrilled to be asked to review the Polaroid PLAY 3D pen. The idea of being able to create your own 3D models is so appealing. It really brings your imagination to life and we were really impressed with the results.
First it is worth mentioning that this is not a toy. This product is suitable for ages 14+. This is for two reasons, firstly safety because the pen is heated and secondly because this takes a steady hand and a good bit of skill. Children aged 14 and over must have adult supervision. However, this was much easier to use than I was expecting. I have to admit, I’m not a fan of reading instruction manuals and I was really worried this would be hard to get the hang of. However the Polaroid PLAY 3D pen is exceptionally easy to set up and use. It took about ten minutes to get going.
We were sent the Polaroid 3D Play 3D Pen with PLA Starter Kit. This comes with the pen, a charger,USB connector, 1 Trace App Screen Protector and 4 x adhesive pads, a stand for when the pen is not in use and four rolls of Polaroid PLA filaments in black, white, red and green. This is everything you need to get started. In fact, the only other thing you would need are a sharp pair of scissors. You could also buy some more of the PLA filaments in different colours. This set costs under £30. I really couldn’t believe the price when I saw it. It would be a fantastic present for anyone creative wanting to try something new.
The set also comes with a free app. This allows you to use stencils so you can create some really amazing designs. I think we will need to get in a bit more practice before we can complete these deisgns as they are not for beginners. You can also use your own pictures to create unique stencils. We can’t wait to give this a try.
The 3D pen chargers through a USB cable. It only takes a few minutes to heat up. You simply wind your chosen PLA filament into the pen and then press the button. You can choose four different speeds. It takes a while to get used to using the pen but once you do it is really addictive. The method is similar to a glue gun, although much thinner. Once you get going you can build up layers to create your art work.
You can change colours easily by holding down the ON button. The 3D pen can be used continuously, but does sometimes need a rest to recharge mid-use. This also allows you to let the model dry. It is worth creating a long string to start off with as it can come out a little wiggly to begin with. You can cut off the ends you don’t need with a sharp pair of scissors. This is also useful for the straggly bits when you finish a section.
I have to say I prefer to make my own designs rather than follow a stencil. So far we have attempted a cat keychain and a sweet little flower. The finished creations are brightly coloured and really durable. This is a fun creative tool and I’m really excited about what I will be able to make with a bit more practice.
[Disclaimer: We were gifted this Polaroid Play 3D Pen]
