3D printed MagSafe holder in cactus shape – practical, stylish, homemade
MagSafe is a charging technology from Apple that makes wireless charging of the iPhone particularly convenient. Thanks to the integrated magnetic ring on the back of the iPhone, the charger automatically aligns in the correct position – without any annoying adjustments or slipping cables. Anyone who uses MagSafe regularly knows the desire for a stylish and practical holder that securely stores the iPhone while also serving as a decorative piece.
So why not take matters into your own hands and design your own MagSafe holder? With a 3D printer, creative ideas can be easily realized – for example, a holder in the shape of a cactus. This small DIY project charmingly combines technology, design, and personality.
The best part: the printed holder can be individually customized with acrylic paints afterward. After all, a cactus doesn't always have to be green – how about a sunny yellow, a classy black, or a natural brown? Your imagination is the limit. This way, not only do you create a functional charging dock, but also a true one-of-a-kind piece that suits your environment and mood.
If you enjoy tinkering, designing, and creating something practical at the same time, you will find a lot of joy in this project. It is a small but impactful step in making technology more personal – with a wink and a lot of creativity.
Renick Büttner
Senior Software Engineer & Certified IT-Expert · Working in IT since 2014.
A touch of creativity on the desk:
Print your own MagSafe cactus
Before you start printing, you will need the following materials:
- 3D Printer: We use the Kobra 2 Max from Anycubic, a reliable FDM printer with a large build volume.
- Filament: Our project was printed with (white) PLA filament from Sunlu. It is inexpensive, easy to work with, and available in many colors optionally.
- MagSafe Charging Cable: You can use the original from Apple or opt for colorful third-party variants – according to your taste.
- Acrylic Paints and Brushes: For customizing and decorating the holder.
Here’s how to achieve successful 3D printing in just a few steps
1. Download the 3D model: Download the print files (STL files) from the source linked below. The holder consists of two separate parts that will be assembled later.
2. Print preparation: Import the STL files into your preferred slicer software (e.g., Cura or AnycubicSlicer). Adjust the print settings if necessary. Our recommendation:
- Layer height: 0.2 mm
- Infill: 15–20 %
- Support: Only required for overhangs, not for our model.
- Print bed temperature: 60 °C
- Nozzle temperature: approx. 200 °C (depending on filament type)
3. Printing the individual parts: Start the printing process for both parts of the holder one after the other. The Kobra 2 Max handles this task with impressive speed and precision. Make sure the printed parts cool down well before removing them from the print bed.
4. Assembly and cable integration: Thread the MagSafe charging cable through the designated opening. Then, you can snap the two cactus parts together.
5. Get creative: Paint and personalize: Now comes the best part: customize your holder as you like. With acrylic paints, the cactus can be painted individually – whether in classic green, sunny yellow, or stylish black or pastel colors. This way, the design perfectly matches your workspace or living area. Optionally, you can also apply a primer to the parts, which helps to even out the ridges of the 3D print.
