When I first started 3D printing smart home enclosures, I thought it would be as simple as designing a box, hitting print, and placing my electronics inside. But I quickly realized there’s a lot more to it. Everything from material choice and ventilation to tolerances and mounting options can make or break a project. Looking back, there are many things I wish I had known before I started 3D printing, and more specifically, before I began creating enclosures for smart home devices. Over time, I’ve learned a lot through trial and error, as well as from resources I found online, and I am here to share those lessons with you. If you’re planning to do the same, these insights will save you both time and material in the long run.