Micro-dot Solder Paste Dispenser for less than $2

thingiverse

On YouTube, I came across the following video demonstrating [a simple design for a micro-dot solder paste dispenser](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xX6ms_9Z2t4). I have taken the great little concept and turned it into a design which can easily be 3D printed at home. Besides the 3D printable parts, the design is only using relatively basic hardware. I expect the average tinkerer to already have much of this in stock. In case you are missing parts, they are very [cheaply to source](https://www.aliexpress.com). (Obviously you do not need a syringe which has been approved for medical use.) The tool itself takes a little getting used to, but for the price it can be forgiven. For detailed instructions, see below. Parts: * [1ml Syringes](https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&SearchText=1ml%20syringe) * [Springs](https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&SearchText=springs) (I had one of these [Spring assortment boxes](https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&initiative_id=SB_20210521082509&SearchText=springs+assortment) laying around from another project.) * [Plastic Dispenser Tips](https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&SearchText=+plastic+tapered+dispenser+tip) (I suggest to buy straight tips, much cheaper, more generic, and they're pretty easy to bend using a heat gun; just heat evenly, slowly and keep moving.) (Sofar I have used the 0.4mm tips, these work fine for SOT23, 0805, 0603, etc.) * [Luer Lock Coupler](https://www.aliexpress.com/wholesale?catId=0&SearchText=luer+lock+coupler) (Not mandatory, but avoids ending up with solder paste all over the place after you have transferred solder paste to the 1ml syringe.) This tool works great in conjunction with a [Hot Plate Reflow Soldering Station](https://youtu.be/ZvmTMEJF3Bk?t=80)