From Sawdust to Plastic: How My Bambu A1 Supercharged My Workshop

Written By CJ Henry

If you had told me a few years ago that I'd be giddy over a machine that melts plastic and squirts it into shapes, I’d have laughed, wiped the sawdust off my shirt, and gone back to my saw. But here we are. I bought a Bambu A1 3D printer, and folks—it might be the best thing I’ve brought into the shop since my first shop vac (RIP to that poor, overworked beast).

Let’s rewind a bit. In an earlier blog, I talked about how jigs have become essential to my workflow, especially with the router. And while I do build custom pieces, I also have a number of “production” items where jigs help speed things up. I used to make them by hand: find and cut some scrap, square it off, double-check the measurements, find out it’s wrong, remake it, get frustrated, swear a little, and eventually settle for "good enough." Then after a few runs, the MDF or whatever I used would be damaged, and I’d have to start all over again. Multiply that process by every tool and every new project, and you’ve got a serious time sink.

Enter the Bambu A1: My New Workshop Sidekick

After watching way too many videos and convincing myself this wasn't just a shiny toy (and finding a good sale), I pulled the trigger on the Bambu A1. Within the first week, I had printed an alignment tool for the slats on my crates, a router guide for cutting crate handles, and a marking block for cutting easel legs.

Suddenly, the idea of spending two hours cutting and gluing up a jig felt… ancient. Now, I just design the file, hit print, sip my Mountain Dew, and go back to woodworking while it hums along turning spaghetti into something useful.

Projects That Got the 3D Boost

  • Spacing Jig – Total game changer. I can line up and glue all the slats at once.

  • Router Guide for Crate Handles – Built to route out the handle, and it saved me HOURS.

  • Easel Marker – This piece makes marking the legs quick and consistent.

I even printed a charging stand for my phone and watch, and a travel case for Q-Tips. Pure luxury.

Lessons from a Woodworker Turned Plastics Guy

  • I dabbled with PLA at first, but now I’m using PETG for the added durability.

  • Calibration is key. Don’t assume it’s square until it proves itself.

  • You do have to design, but free tools like TinkerCAD and SketchUp Web make it pretty easy.

  • You might have to print more than once to refine things, but once you get it right, you’ll always have it.

Blending the Old with the New

What I love most is how this printer isn’t replacing woodworking—it’s enhancing it. I still build by hand. I still spend too much time choosing the perfect board. I still get glue on my favorite shirt. But now, I’ve got a digital tool that saves me time and increases precision.

So if you’re a woodworker wondering if a 3D printer belongs in the shop, my answer is simple: yes. Even if you’re just printing little alignment blocks, custom knobs, or parts to help hold things in place, it’s a modern upgrade that respects the craft.

My Final Thought

Jigs are massively important when you need to make the same cut more than once. And sure, there will still be those one-off jigs you build from scraps and move on. I know 3D printers aren’t exactly pocket change, but the amount of time you save and the precision you gain is well worth it. Not to mention—it’s just plain fun to design and create whatever you can dream up.

Want to read more about how I use jigs in my workflow? Check out my “Day in the Workshop” blog post.

CJ Henry

Welcome to Henry Hardwood, a small, veteran-owned woodworking business where craftsmanship meets passion. My name is CJ Henry, and I’m proud to create custom, handmade wooden pieces that bring both beauty and function to your home.

For over 20 years, I worked in the IT sector, and before that, I served six years in the United States Air Force. While I cherish those experiences, I often found myself longing for a creative outlet—something tangible that I could craft with my own two hands. That’s when I discovered woodworking.

What started as a way to destress quickly became a lifelong passion. My first project was a picnic table my wife requested for Christmas, and from the moment I saw her joy, I knew I’d found something special. Over time, I continued to hone my skills, transitioning from a hobbyist to a full-time craftsman and launching Henry Hardwood.

Today, I specialize in crafting unique items like shelves, wooden crosses, wind chime stands, and custom furniture. Each piece is made with care and precision, ensuring it’s not only functional but also a reflection of your style.

At Henry Hardwood, every piece tells a story—yours and mine. My mission is to create meaningful, timeless pieces that you’ll cherish for years to come. Whether it’s a custom order or one of my signature designs, you can count on quality, craftsmanship, and a touch of heart in everything I make.

When I’m not in the workshop, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two boys, camping, and watching football. I’m always drawing inspiration from the world around me, observing other pieces and the techniques used to create them. Thank you for supporting my journey and considering Henry Hardwood for your woodworking needs.

Feel free to reach out for custom orders or to learn more about my work. I look forward to bringing your vision to life!

https://www.henryhardwood.net
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