From Rocker Gnome to Fridge Magnet: A Customer-Inspired Design

Some of our most interesting projects begin with a simple customer question.

Recently, a customer asked if we could take our full-size Rocker Gnome and turn him into a smaller fridge magnet. We loved the idea, but shrinking a 3D-printed design involves more than simply reducing its dimensions.

Turning a Larger Design Into a Magnet

The original Rocker Gnome has plenty of personality and small details that give him his distinctive look. When a design is made smaller, those details can become difficult to print clearly.

We had to make sure the miniature version still looked like the Rocker Gnome while also being an appropriate size and shape for a refrigerator magnet. The design needed to print cleanly, hold the magnet securely, and sit properly against a metal surface.

Inspired by a Customer Request

This project is a great example of how customer requests can lead to fun new ideas. The customer already liked the Rocker Gnome but wanted a smaller version that could be displayed on a refrigerator, filing cabinet, toolbox, or another magnetic surface.

Instead of creating an entirely different character, we adapted an existing TML Fun Creations design for a new purpose.

Small Design, Same Rocker Personality

Even at a smaller size, the goal was to preserve the details and personality that make the original Rocker Gnome recognizable.

Projects like this require some testing and adjustment, but that is part of what we enjoy about designing and 3D printing our products. Every custom request gives us an opportunity to look at one of our designs differently.

The Rocker Gnome fridge magnet started with a customer’s idea—and became another fun creation in the shop.

Have an idea for a different version of one of our products? We always enjoy hearing what customers come up with. While every request may not be possible, we are happy to take a look and see what we can create.