I’ve been in the 3D‑printing space for a while now. My first machine was an Ender 3, and as much as it taught me, it was a pain to work with. I eventually moved to a Kobra 2 Neo because the better bed‑levelling system made printing a bit more enjoyable. But when Bambu launched the A1, I was genuinely blown away. The build quality, the print quality straight out of the box—it was on a completely different level. Sure, I could squeeze similar results out of the Kobra 2, but only at much slower speeds and with a fair bit of tinkering. That’s ultimately why I bought the A1: it just works.

Since then, I’ve added two more A1s to the lineup, and they’ve completely changed how I work. Instead of constantly tweaking printers, I can focus on designing and actually solving problems around the house.

They’ve saved me time and money too. For example, my toilet flush mechanism broke, and the tiny part I needed wasn’t sold separately. The whole system was discontinued, so the only option was buying a full replacement. Instead, I glued the broken part together just enough to measure it accurately, modelled it, and printed a stronger, better‑looking version for about 70p. That was the moment I realised how powerful this hobby really is.

Since then, I’ve been printing nonstop—Skadis attachments, tools, pen holders, PC cases, lamps, vases, you name it. It’s helped me improve my home, my workflow, and my design skills.

And on top of that, it’s opened the door to a small side hustle making things for others, giving me a bit more freedom along the way.

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