e‑NABLE logo: Giving the World a Helping Hand
e‑NABLE
Giving the World a Helping Hand

Helping kids with 3D‑printed hero hands

e‑NABLE brings together volunteers, 3D printers and open‑source designs to create playful prosthetic hands and arms for children at little or no cost.

Become a volunteer maker Request an e‑NABLE device
Child wearing a colorful 3D‑printed arm Colorful 3D‑printed prosthetic parts on a table

About e‑NABLE

e‑NABLE is a worldwide volunteer community that designs and 3D‑prints low‑cost prosthetic hands and arms using open‑source files that anyone can download and improve.

Makers, teachers, students and families collaborate to turn a medical device into something fun, colorful and empowering for children living with limb differences.

Our story

The e‑NABLE adventure started when a maker shared an experimental mechanical hand online and was contacted by a carpenter in need of a prosthesis. Together they built an early 3D‑printed hand.

Instead of keeping the design private, they posted the files for free so others could print, remix and improve them, inspiring a researcher to form an online group that matched volunteers with recipients.

What began as a handful of makers has grown into a global network donating thousands of devices and proving how open‑source hardware and community spirit can change lives.

How it works

Step 1
Family talking with a volunteer

Share your story

Families contact a local e‑NABLE group, explain their needs and send a few photos and measurements so volunteers can select and size the right design.

Step 2
3D printer creating plastic parts

Print and assemble

Makers 3D‑print the parts, add simple hardware and padding, and customize colors and themes to match the child’s personality.

Step 3
Child playing with superhero‑style prosthetic arm

Fit and play

The child tries the new hand, learns to open and close the fingers, and uses it for everyday activities, from holding toys to playing sports.

Get involved with e‑NABLE

You don’t need to be an engineer to help. If you have access to a 3D printer or want to support a local chapter, there is a place for you in the e‑NABLE community.

  • Print and assemble devices using shared open‑source files.
  • Organize school or makerspace build events.
  • Sponsor materials or shipping for a child’s device.
Volunteers working around 3D printers

Contact the real e‑NABLE

This demo page was created for educational purposes to promote the real e‑NABLE community. To request a device, volunteer or learn more, visit: enablingthefuture.org.