Nautical Rope Handle with caps/ Rustic Drawer Pull

The original handles on our playground tower were starting to look quite worn out, which inspired me to design a fresh set of replacements. Instead of going with a standard industrial look, I wanted these to have a more organic feel, so I designed them to mimic the texture of a twisted rope. While they look great on a play tower, they are versatile enough to be used as unique drawer pulls or handles for various other furniture projects.

For my own build, I printed these in yellow PLA because the color matched our play tower perfectly and it was the only material I had available in that specific shade. However, I think these would look even more authentic in brown or tan to truly capture that rope aesthetic. 

I’m very excited to see your versions, so please feel free to share your makes and ideas in the comments!

PLEASE NOTE: 

If you decide to use these handles outdoors, please be mindful of the material properties. PLA is not particularly UV-resistant and tends to become brittle when exposed to moisture and the elements over time. Because of this, I strongly recommend regularly checking the structural integrity of the handles and replacing them if they show signs of wear. For long-term outdoor applications, materials like ASA or PETG are much better suited to handle the weather. Regardless of whether you use them inside or out, please prioritize safety and inspect the grips frequently—especially if children are using them to pull themselves up or support their weight.

Stay safe and happy printing!