Desk Industrial Vacuum - Maker's Beginner Kit

If you want to support me you can buy me a coffee :)

 

This is a small but genuinely functional desk vacuum inspired by industrial floor cleaners, scaled down to something that fits comfortably next to your keyboard.

Despite its size, it actually works. The vacuum is powered by a DC motor and runs from either a 9V battery or up to four AAA batteries (fewer if your motor is rated for lower voltage). Airflow is strong enough for dust, crumbs, filament scraps, and other desk debris.

The design fits two common DC motor sizes. If you’re using a smaller motor, just drop in the included adapter ring—no modifications needed. The motor mount and body clamp securely, which keeps vibration and noise under control.

Tubes, hoses, and filter

You can use any hose or tube you want. I ended up going a bit overboard and designed a PLA-printable flexible corrugated tube instead, but it’s entirely optional. I also ended up using a silicone drinking straw as the most convenient and flexible tube with good air throughput.
 

For the rigid metal tube, I used a silver Bic Cristal pen. If you’d rather not dismantle office supplies, I’ve included alternative printable tube options as well.

Multiple nozzle tips are included, as shown in the photos: a wide floor-style head for general cleanup and narrower attachments for tighter spots.

For the filter I simply cut a square off of a vacuum bag.

Power & portability

The battery compartment is fully self-contained, making the vacuum portable and easy to move around the desk. The compact cylindrical body keeps everything stable during use, even when the hose is fully extended.

Extra use: filament vacuum sealing

An unexpected bonus: this is a very convenient way to vacuum-seal filament spools. Controlled suction, no oversized shop vac, and easy to store once you’re done.

Assembly & media

I made a full assembly video, which you’ll find in the Media section of this page. It walks through motor fitment, wiring, battery options, and final assembly. There are also some demo videos.
Make sure the impeller fan is nearly flush to the back wall when assembling but not touching it. Clearances are super tight to ensure good vacuuming. Also check that it spins clockwise, if it doesn't you need to swap the positive and negative wires.
 

Contest backstory

This model was originally made for the Hand Vacuum Contest, but a power outage on Sunday meant I couldn’t upload it in time. The vacuum works. The electricity did not.


If you find this model helpful and want to support my work, you can buy me a coffee ☕
 

 

If you want to support me you can buy me a coffee :)