Getting ready for the spring beekeeping season means making sure our queen-rearing game is on point. In this video, I’m walking you through the 3D-printed mini mating nucs I’ve been running on the printer lately.
I’ve used everything from 2-frame wood nucs to the inexpensive styrofoam boxes, but this 3D-printed model has a few design features that are total game-changers—especially the top-access feeder!
What we cover today:
Design Walkthrough: Why this modular design (with the top sugar water feeder) is superior to traditional styrofoam nucs.
Bee Safety: How to prevent bees from drowning in the feeder while keeping the colony stable.
Pro Printing Tip: Why you must use PETG filament for the apiary and why PLA will fail you in the sun.
Features: A look at the entrance reducers, detachable legs, and modular “second story” options.
Whether you’re a seasoned queen rearer or just getting started with 3D printing for your apiary, these nucs are a fantastic project to tackle during the off-season.
Find the 3D model here: https://makerworld.com/en/models/1256434-queen-mating-hive#profileId-1279916
If you wish for me to print one for you, please email me from my website: http://www.honeytopbees.com
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