Because a Zip Tie Alone Wasn't Enough

Why use a zip tie and a piece of tape when you can build a proper mechanical mounting system?

This project is an intentionally overengineered holder for stainless steel identification plates. It mounts to pipes using two cable ties, while the engraved stainless steel plate is secured with M3 screws threaded into heat-set inserts.

Besides the printable holder, the project also includes helper models that simplify creating custom engraved plates with a laser engraver.

The result is a sturdy, reusable and surprisingly satisfying labeling system for workshops, machines, pipes or anything else that deserves a proper nameplate.

Features

• Deliberately overengineered design

• Reusable stainless steel nameplates

• M3 heat-set inserts for a durable threaded connection

• Mounted using two cable ties—simple on the outside, mechanical on the inside

• Includes helper models for CAD and laser engraving

• Easy to replace labels without reprinting the holder

Included Models

• Label Holder
  Holds the stainless steel plate using M3 screws and threaded heat-set inserts. Designed to be attached to pipes or similar objects with two cable ties.

• Reference Plate Model
  A simplified CAD model of the stainless steel plate for designing custom holders or assemblies.

• Laser Alignment Plate
  A helper model that places the engraving area at a defined X0/Y0 position, making laser engraving setup repeatable.
  Also as DXF as an importable ref for the laser engraver or Inkscape

Assembly

1. Install the heat-set inserts.

2. Place the engraved stainless steel plate on the holder.

3. Secure it with two M3 screws.

4. Attach the holder using two cable ties.

Done. Probably more effort than necessary—but that's kind of the point.

Recommended Printing

• 0.2 mm layer height

• 3–4 perimeters

• ASA or ABS recommended

  • Use coloring for aditional highlighting e.g. blue for cold and red for warm water

• No supports required

Hardware

• Stainless steel dog tag / nameplate e.g. https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0GHDC5ZR3?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

• M3 heat-set inserts e.g. https://www.amazon.de/dp/B09QVN8ZLX?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

• M3 screws e.g. https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0FW4HJLTK?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

• Cable ties e.g. https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0D8WGCRLF?ref=ppx_yo2o

Perfect For

• Pipe identification

• Workshop organization

• Machine labels

• Cable bundles

• Industrial-looking DIY projects

• Anyone who believes even a label holder deserves threaded inserts