3D Pen Drawing Techniques Every Kid Should Learn

Getting your first 3D pen is exciting . It’s like holding a magic wand that turns ideas into real objects. But once the fun begins, many kids (and parents!) quickly realise that 3D drawing is very different from using a crayon or pencil.

With the right guidance, kids can go from shaky lines to confident 3D creations in no time. That’s why we’ve put together this list of easy and effective 3D pen drawing tips kids can use to build their skills, avoid common mistakes, and enjoy their creative journey.

Whether your child is drawing their first flower or designing a custom keychain, these tips will help them draw better and feel proud of their work.

Why Learning 3D Drawing Techniques Matters

Using a 3D pen is fun, but it does take a bit of practice. Unlike regular drawing, 3D pen art involves:

• Controlling the flow of melted filament
• Drawing in the air or on different surfaces
• Understanding shapes and layers
• Building steady hand movement and timing

That’s why these 3D pen drawing tips kids can use will make the experience smoother and more rewarding.

Tip 1: Start with Simple Shapes

The best way to begin is by mastering basic shapes like lines, circles, and squares. Encourage your child to trace these shapes on a silicone mat before trying more detailed projects.

Why it helps:
Simple shapes build hand control and help kids understand how the pen moves and cools.

Practice idea:
Draw a grid of squares and try to fill each one without gaps.

Tip 2: Use Stencils or Templates

One of the most helpful 3D pen drawing tips kids should know is to use printed stencils. These can be outlines of animals, objects, or letters that kids can trace on a flat surface before assembling into 3D models.

Bonus:
You can print your own stencils or find free ones online for all skill levels.

Tip 3: Go Slow and Steady

Kids often want to draw fast, but with a 3D pen, patience is key. Going slowly helps keep lines straight and prevents the filament from breaking or piling up unevenly.

Helpful reminder:
Tell your child that it’s okay to take breaks and breathe. Creative work isn’t a race!

Tip 4: Let Each Layer Cool Before Adding More

One of the biggest beginner mistakes is rushing to build vertical structures. Teach your child to pause between layers so the filament has time to cool and harden.

This technique:

• Makes the drawing stronger
• Prevents sagging or collapsing
• Helps kids plan the next step better

This is one of the most essential 3D pen drawing tips kids need to learn for more advanced builds.

Tip 5: Use a Heat-Resistant Mat

3D pens work best on a non-stick, heat-safe surface. Use silicone mats or any smooth plastic base designed for 3D pen use.

Why it matters:

• Prevents the drawing from sticking permanently
• Helps with easy removal of finished work
• Keeps your table clean and protected

Tip 6: Hold the Pen Like a Pencil

Another simple but powerful technique: hold the pen just like a regular pencil or pen. This helps with accuracy, control, and reduces hand fatigue during longer drawing sessions.

Position tip:
Rest the pen lightly on your fingers and keep your wrist relaxed. No need to grip tightly!

Tip 7: Try Drawing Vertically (After Practice)

Once your child is confident with flat designs, they can start “drawing in the air.” Begin with easy vertical lines or frames and build up piece by piece.

Cool project idea:
Make a cube by drawing each face flat, then attach the edges vertically — kind of like LEGO, but with melted plastic!

Tip 8: Practice with the Right Filament

Using the correct filament makes a big difference. For kids, we recommend:

• PLA filament (safe, low-heat, non-toxic)
• PCL filament (ultra-low temperature, great for younger kids)

Avoid ABS filament, it requires high heat and produces strong fumes, not ideal for young creators.

Good to know:
Many of the best 3D pen drawing tips kids will benefit from start with quality filament. It melts and flows more smoothly.

Bonus Tip: Use the Right Pen

If you're just starting out, using a safe, kid-friendly 3D pen can make learning these techniques much easier.

✅ Recommended: myFirst 3D Pen Make

• Child-safe low-heat nozzle
• Simple one-button control
• Wireless and portable
• Comes with filament and charging cable

This pen is a great first tool for practising all the 3D pen drawing tips kids need to become confident little artists.

Fun Practice Ideas for Kids

To apply what they’ve learned, try these beginner-friendly drawing exercises:

• Draw their name in bubble letters
• Make a simple flower with petals and leaves
• Create 3D shapes (cube, pyramid, cylinder)
• Design a bookmark with patterns
• Make a cartoon face using stencils

These fun projects reinforce hand control, planning, and creative thinking while showing off their new skills!

Mastering a 3D pen takes time, just like riding a bike or learning to draw with crayons. But with patience, support, and these helpful 3D pen drawing tips kids can build their confidence and enjoy the process.

Explore the myFirst 3D Pen Make and get started with these 3D pen drawing tips kids will love. Whether it’s for school, home, or weekend fun, 3D drawing opens up a world of creativity that grows with your child.

🎉Because the best art is made one layer at a time, by little hands with big imagination.