Fidgets are new to me and I wanted to try making one that combines TPU with PLA. These print-in-place cube strings use an internal TPU hinge & the tension from the flexible TPU can hold the PLA cubes together in a variety of shapes.

TPU ‘nubs’ at the end of each string allow them to be chained together at perpendicular angles & even allow for attaching features like the little caterpillar head in my example images.  Check it out in motion:

Choosing Filament

I’ve tested this model with multiple TPU types:

• TPU 95A HF is my favorite for this model - firm but still easy to manipulate
• TPU 90A works well and is much looser than 95A. I was able to test the new Quicksilver 90A from Bambu which you can see paired with the PLA Metal Iridium Gold in the photos for this post.
• TPU For AMS has the benefit of being easy to print but is quite a lot stiffer than the other options. Although functional, it’s maybe not quite as fun as a fidget.
  For the PLA element, just choose anything that looks nice! I’ve tested with a variety of PLA finishes including Matte, Metal, Galaxy and Translucent.

Tips & Notes

• The interior portions of this model don’t mix TPU and PLA within the same structure But the ‘nubs’ on the ends do. Due to the small scale, I use flanges built into the design instead of beam interlocking.
• I’ve had the best luck printing these fidgets on PEI sheets with a thin layer of glue. Because the contact area is small, I recommend cleaning your bed plate and observing the first 10-15 layers to ensure that adhesion hasn’t been lost
  The print profile includes many lengths - just choose the ones you want and disable the rest. 

Updates

• 6/7/26: Added a print profile for X2D. This profile removes the longer sections that won't fit on an X2D plate.