Customizable Shape Sorting Box

Update 07.06.2026: Based on user feedback, I've adjusted the tolerances in the code. By default, there is a tolerance of approximately 3 mm between the opening and the figure. Note: You can also change the tolerance in the Customizer. 

This is my fully customizable and parametric Shape Sorting Box for MakerWorld. THE FIRST ON THE WHOLE MAKERWORL UNIVERSE!

Choose your favorite theme, adjust the size, fine-tune the fit, add optional bottom text, generate the parts — and your personal sorting box is ready to print.

The model is designed as a playful, printable sorting cube for kids, learning, creative play and also as a fun fidget-style object for adults.

Each theme box includes 16 motifs in total:

• 4 motifs on the lid
• 3 motifs on each side panel
• 16 matching shape blocks per theme

Available Themes

You can choose between 5 different theme boxes:

1. Dinosaur

A fun prehistoric version with cute dinosaur and fossil-style motifs.

2. Space

A space adventure version with rockets, stars, moon and other space-inspired shapes.

3. Ocean

An ocean-themed version with sea animals and underwater motifs.

4. Creative

A playful mixed version with fantasy, toy and everyday motifs.

5. Classic

A clean classic shape sorter with geometric shapes like circle, square, triangle, heart, star and more.

Why this model is special

This is a parametric and personalizable sorting cube generator.

You are not limited to one fixed box. You can choose:

• the theme
• the output part
• the box size
• optional bottom text
• tolerance / fit
• snap-fit strength
• child-safe rounding
• motif size
• block clearance

The model automatically generates the matching box, lid and shape blocks based on your settings.

Included Output Modes

The model includes different output options:

Preview

Shows the assembled box as a preview.

Box

Generates only the main box body.

Lid

Generates only the lid in print orientation.

Shape_Blocks

Generates only the matching shape blocks.

All_Parts

Generates box, lid and shape blocks together for printing. → Download this for Printing

Customization Options

Model

Choose the theme:

• Dinosaur
• Space
• Ocean
• Creative
• Classic

Changing the theme automatically changes the motif cutouts in the box, lid and matching shape blocks.

Box Size

Adjust the outer size of the box.

Range:

180 mm – 256 mm

Default:

245 mm

The complete model scales proportionally, including:

• box body
• lid
• height
• motif cutouts
• shape blocks
• layout
• bottom engraving

The maximum size is limited to fit a 256 × 256 mm build plate.

Bottom Text

You can add optional text to the bottom of the box.

Examples:

• Emma
• For Leo
• Lina’s Box
• Happy Birthday

If the field is left empty, no bottom engraving will be generated.

The text automatically scales based on box size and text length.

Tolerance

Controls the fit between the lid skirt and the inside wall of the box.

Smaller value:

• tighter fit

Larger value:

• easier to place
• looser fit

Recommended:

0.40–0.50 mm for well-calibrated FDM printers
0.55–0.70 mm for tighter printers or rougher materials

Snap Fit

Controls the height / strength of the snap tabs on the lid.

Smaller value:

• easier to open
• weaker hold

Larger value:

• stronger hold
• may be harder to open

Recommended starting value:

1.0–1.2 mm

Childsafe Rounding

Rounds the 2D motif contours.

Smaller value:

• sharper and more detailed motifs

Larger value:

• softer, rounder and more child-friendly contours

Very high values may remove small details and increase render time.

Recommended:

0.6–1.0 mm

Motif Scale

Globally scales all motifs.

Smaller value:

• smaller openings
• smaller shape blocks

Larger value:

• larger openings
• larger shape blocks

This affects the box openings, lid openings and matching blocks together.

Recommended:

0.90–1.00

Block Clearance

Controls how much smaller the shape blocks are compared to the cutouts.

Smaller value:

• tighter fit

Larger value:

• easier insertion

Recommended for children’s sorting boxes:

2.0–2.5 mm

For very young children or easier play:

2.5–3.0 mm

Printing Notes

• PLA is recommended
• PETG can also be used
• No supports should be needed for the standard parts
• Supports needed for the frame box
• Check the fit before final assembly
• For a permanent box, glue can be used if needed
• Bright colors work especially well for kids
• Glow-in-the-dark filament can be used for special versions

Assembly

Print the selected parts and assemble the cube.

The box is generated from the selected theme and settings. The lid is designed to sit on top with a snap-fit function. The shape blocks are matched to the selected motif set.

Depending on printer calibration, material and tolerance settings, the fit may vary slightly. Adjust Tolerance, Snap Fit and Block Clearance if needed.

Important Notes

This is a parametric model. Some settings may increase render time, especially high rounding values or very large box sizes.

For best results, start with the default settings and adjust only one parameter at a time.

Safety Note

This model contains small parts.

Not suitable for children under 3 years.
Use only under adult supervision.
Please check all printed parts for sharp edges, loose pieces or damaged sections before use.

Personal Note

I spent many free days, nights and weekends creating this customizable sorting box generator.

My goal was to make a flexible model that can be adapted to different themes, sizes and use cases directly in MakerWorld.

I hope you enjoy printing, customizing and playing with it!

Support

If you like the model, I would be very happy about a like, FREE BOOST, follow, download or a comment with your printed version. ❤️

Thank you for your support!
© WunschStück3D

ps. Be sure to check out my other model, which features different motifs. [https://makerworld.com/de/models/2799233-240-scalable-symbols-glow-decor-diy-collection#profileId-3113791](https://makerworld.com/de/models/2799233-240-scalable-symbols-glow-decor-diy-collection#profileId-3113791) 
If you'd like a box with different designs, please let me know.