D Shaft Knob Generator
Custom knobs for D-shaft potentiometers and encoders with an indicator line
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About D Shaft Knob Generator
Nagy's D Shaft Knob Generator makes replacement or custom knobs for the D-shaped shafts found on potentiometers, rotary encoders and many appliance controls. It is a compact MakerWorld customizer with close to 6,000 customizations.
A labelled diagram on the model page explains every setting. You set the overall diameter and full height, the height, width and fillet of the grip on top, and the diameter and depth of the D-shaped hole so it fits your shaft. A small indicator line on top can be sized by length and depth. The bottom can be full, hollow, or extended with a collar that reaches down around the shaft.
It is free with a MakerWorld account. It suits audio gear, printer and electronics projects, and appliances with a lost knob. Measure the shaft with calipers, print one test knob and adjust the hole size if the fit is loose or tight.
What you can make
- D-shaft knobs
- Potentiometer knobs
- Encoder knobs
How to use it
- Measure the shaft diameter and length
- Open Customize and enter the sizes
- Choose a full, hollow or extended bottom
- Generate, download and print
Good
- Clear labelled parameter diagram
- Three bottom styles
- Indicator line for pointer knobs
Not so good
- Only for D-shaped shafts
- Plain grip, no knurling options
What you'll need to print it
Materials and parts that give the best results with D Shaft Knob Generator.
PETG for functional and outdoor prints
PETG handles heat, sunlight and repeated flexing better than PLA, so Gridfinity bins in a hot garage or signs mounted outdoors keep their shape.
- Bambu Lab PETG BasicUpgraded formula that Bambu says matches PLA Basic for strength while staying impact-tough; low price per spool in multi-roll bundles.
- Polymaker PETGHigh-flow replacement for PolyLite PETG: strong, low-odour and quick to print.
- Overture High Speed PETGGood-value PETG in a large colour range for functional parts in bulk.
M3 heat-set inserts and installation tips
Brass heat-set inserts give printed parts real metal threads that survive repeated screwing, and a dedicated insertion tip keeps each insert straight and flush.
- ruthex M3 threaded inserts RX-M3x5.7 (100 pcs)Brass inserts made for 3D-printed plastic, with matching ruthex soldering-tip sets.
- CNC Kitchen Heat Set Insert M3 x 5.7 (100 pcs)Double-knurled, lead-free brass; CNC Kitchen also sells an installation tip set for T18/900M irons.
- Bambu Lab Heat-Stake Nut Tool Tip SetInsertion tips with an optional USB-C soldering-iron bundle; pairs with Bambu's M3 brass inserts.
M3 screw assortment
M3 is the default fastener size for printed enclosures, hinges and mounts; a sorted kit of lengths saves a hardware-store trip whenever a model calls for bolts.
- Bambu Lab Fastener KitMixed self-tapping and machine screws with nuts, matched to Maker's Supply projects.
- Hilitchi M3 socket head cap screw assortment kitClassic boxed M3 assortment with nuts and washers in many lengths.
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