September 14, 2025
Description
Title: The Upcycled Cup Bug Catcher - A Humane Catch-and-Release Tool
Description:
Hate finding spiders or other bugs in your house, but don't want to squish them? This simple, 3D printed handle turns a standard large fast-food cup into the perfect humane bug catcher!
Give that plastic cup a second life. This design allows you to safely trap insects from a distance and release them outside without ever having to touch them. It's a fantastic, eco-friendly solution for your home, classroom, or office.
Features:
Humane: Safely catches insects without harming them.
Eco-Friendly: Upcycles and reuses a common single-use plastic item.
Easy to Use: A simple slide-and-trap mechanism that anyone can use.
Safe & Clean: Keep a comfortable distance from the bug—no-touch removal!
Great for Kids: An excellent tool for safely observing insects before setting them free.
What You'll Need:
This 3D printed part.
A large, clear plastic cup, like those used for sodas or iced coffees (typically with a top diameter around 100 mm). Any size will work, but the larger cups work the best.
How to Use:
Place the open end of the cup over the insect on a flat surface (wall, floor, ceiling).
Once the bug is trapped inside, slide the handle's gate closed.
Carry the trapped bug outside.
Slide the gate open and let your little friend go free!
Printing Instructions:
Material: PLA or PETG
Layer Height: 0.2 mm for a good balance of speed and quality.
Infill: 15−20% is sufficient.
Supports: No supports needed! It's designed to print easily.
License:
Creative Commons — Public Domain