Boomr Bin Repair Clip Released and What's Next
One of my favorite projects isn't always the biggest or most complicated one.
This week I'm releasing the Boomr Bin Repair Clip, a simple repair part designed to extend the life of damaged Boomr Bins. If you've ever broken one of the latch tabs, you know how frustrating it can be to have an otherwise perfectly good monotub sidelined because of a small piece of plastic.
While binder clips have become a popular solution within the community (and they work great), I wanted to design something that felt like it belonged on the bin itself while remaining incredibly easy to print.
Designed for Everyone
One of the goals for this project was accessibility.
I intentionally kept the design simple so it could be printed on just about any FDM printer without exotic materials or complicated print settings. Whether you're just getting started with 3D printing or have years of experience, this is a project anyone should be able to make.
The files are also released under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 (CC BY 4.0) license. You're free to print, remix, modify, share, and even sell derivatives with attribution.
I love seeing people build on each other's ideas, and I hope this clip becomes one more small contribution to the mushroom-growing community.
Looking Ahead
While this repair clip is finished, I'm more excited than ever about where This Seemed Easier is headed.
What started as me solving my own problems has slowly evolved into something much bigger. My goal is to build an ecosystem of open-source, community-driven accessories that make mushroom cultivation more accessible, more compatible, and easier for everyone.
Rather than focusing on a single manufacturer or growing method, I want to create tools that support the community as a whole.
Refining Existing Designs
One thing I've realized is that not every improvement has to become a brand-new product.
Some of my earliest designs have taught me a lot, and I'd like to revisit them with everything I've learned over the past several months.
One of my first priorities is improving the Boomr Bin Quick Disconnect by redesigning the interlocking geometry. The current version works well, but I think there's room to make the connection even stronger and more reliable.
I'll also continue refining print profiles, documentation, installation guides, and the overall user experience across my existing projects.
Expanding Compatibility
Compatibility across manufacturers continues to be one of my biggest goals.
I don't think anyone should feel left out because they chose a different monotub.
Upcoming projects include:
Quick Disconnect mounting profiles for additional monotub manufacturers. Unlike the North Spore version, these will require modifications to the tubs themselves.
Adapters allowing the Midwest Grow Kits Automated Humidifier to work with other monotubs.
More universal accessories designed around compatibility rather than a single manufacturer.
Continuing to expand support for additional monotub ecosystems as opportunities arise.
My goal isn't to replace existing products. It's to create an ecosystem where accessories can work together across multiple brands whenever possible.
Supporting the Shoebox Community
Another area I'd love to explore is the custom shoebox community.
Some of the most creative growers I've seen are building their own shoebox setups, experimenting with different filtration methods, and coming up with clever modifications.
I'd love to contribute to that by designing simple, affordable accessories that make those builds easier to assemble, customize, and maintain.
Ideas I'm interested in exploring include:
Modular ventilation systems
Filter holders
Sensor mounts
Cable management
Stackable accessories
Universal mounting systems
The goal isn't to replace the creativity of the community. It's to build on it.
Affordable Environmental Monitoring
One of the bigger long-term projects I'd like to explore is designing an affordable CO₂ sensor specifically for mushroom cultivation.
There are already some great options on the market, but many are well over what a beginner wants to spend.
I'd love to see if I can create something useful for under $50 while remaining accurate, approachable, and easy to use.
This project is still in the research phase, but it's one I'm genuinely excited about.
Controller Organization & Cable Management
As I continue adding automation to my own grow spaces, I've noticed something else that could use improvement.
Controllers.
Sensors.
Power supplies.
Cables.
Before long, they start taking over your workspace.
I'm currently exploring modular mounting systems and cable management solutions for the North Spore ecosystem to help organize controllers while making them easier to access and expand as new accessories are added.
Building an Ecosystem
One thing that's become clear over the past year is that I enjoy designing ecosystems more than individual products.
I want accessories that work together.
I want designs that are easy to print.
I want projects that support beginners without limiting experienced growers.
Most importantly, I want people to feel comfortable modifying, remixing, and improving my work.
That's why I'll continue releasing many of my projects under open licenses and encouraging community contributions whenever possible.
The best ideas rarely come from one person.
Thank You
Every download, purchase, comment, suggestion, and conversation helps shape these projects.
Many of my favorite ideas have started because someone asked a question, suggested an improvement, or pointed out a problem they were trying to solve.
Thank you for following along while I learn new skills, make mistakes, and continue building things for this amazing community.
I'm excited to see where these projects go next.
Happy printing!
Rylan
This Seemed Easier
Whether you're downloading a free model, purchasing a printed accessory, or simply following along as I prototype new ideas, thank you for being part of the journey.
There's a lot more to come, and I can't wait to share it with all of you.
