When Germs become visible ...

Meet the Germ Villains!

I designed a modular 3D-printable toy set for building germ characters. Check out my design in Makerworld.

These cartoon-style germs are inspired by the SteriLink Project, a UV door-handle sanitizer that eliminates harmful bacteria. During our pitch, we used paper bacterium cutouts to demonstrate germ transmission through door handles. I started forming the idea of creating 3D-printable models for these germs to make them visible and give them their own characters. Each germ character represents a mischievous microbe brought to life in a fun, customizable way and can be used not only for demos but also as animation props or toys.

🦠 About the Design

This modular 3D model set lets you mix and match parts to create your own germ characters. The central body features multiple socket holes that accept interchangeable attachments, allowing endless combinations and creative freedom.

Each part has been designed to press-fit or snap into place, making assembly simple and fun without the need for glue or screws.

🧩 Included Components

• Body (main capsule) – the base with multiple connection holes 

  

• Eye – fits neatly into the circular front socket

  

• Teeth (pair) – small inserts for the mouth opening

  

• Round Bud / Spike (large) – attachable appendages for arms, legs, or antennae

• Round Bud / Spike (small) – compact variant for variation or smaller “limbs” 

  

• Spike – long cone-like extension for more dynamic shapes

  

• Flagellum – twisted, flexible-looking element with matching connectors for the body holes

  

Each part shares a standard connection diameter, making them compatible and easy to swap.

All the parts

🎨 Customization

You can print the components in different colors to give each germ a distinct personality, for example:

• Green body with red spikes and white eyes

• Yellow body with green buds, black eyes, and red flagella

Experiment with part combinations to design your own “germ family” of quirky, expressive characters. 

💡 Design Notes

This project celebrates the idea of turning invisible microbes into fun, physical characters. Every germ can look different, but they all share the same playful core.