What is Otto?
Originally launched as an open-source DIY project in 2016, Otto quickly became a global favorite among makers, educators and students. The HP Otto is the upgraded, education-focused version—built with teachers in mind and designed to inspire creativity, problem-solving and STEM+A learning.
🧩 Plug-and-play electronics (no soldering!)
💡 Customizable 3D-printable body parts
💻 Learn block coding, Python or C++
🌍 Available with 3D-printed parts or as a print-your-own option
Learn more about Otto here →
Why Makers Empire + HP Otto?
Makers Empire and HP Otto share a mission: to empower students to design, build, and code their own creations. This collaboration gives educators and families a seamless way to extend learning beyond the screen and into the physical world—combining design thinking, 3D printing, and robotics.
With Makers Empire’s easy-to-use app, students can:
🧠 Remix Otto’s body parts in 3D
🎨 Add creative touches (like bunny ears or superhero accessories!)
🖨️ Download STL files and print them on a 3D printer
🧩 Assemble and personalize their own robot friend
Project Spotlight: The Bunny Bot
In this example, we created an Easter-themed Otto by adding cute 3D-printed bunny ears and a nose. The process is fun, beginner-friendly, and perfect for ages 8+.
Steps:
- Download Makers Empire from the App Store, Google Play or on desktop
- Create an account and complete the basic training
- Open the Shaper tool and select the Otto parts pack
- Remix the design—add your bunny ears or anything else!
- Export as an STL file and print
- Assemble your custom Otto, and start coding 🎉
💡 View the full step-by-step guide here: How to remix HP Otto in Makers Empire
Who Is This For?
This project is ideal for:
👩🏫 Teachers introducing design thinking and robotics in the classroom
👨👩👧👦 Parents looking for creative, educational activities at home
🧒 Young makers aged 8–14 with access to a 3D printer
📦 Schools with HP Otto kits or Makers Empire subscriptions
It’s a great way to combine technology, creativity, and hands-on learning into one engaging experience.
Keep the Creativity Going!
The Bunny Bot is just the beginning! Students can create themed Ottos for different holidays, characters or classroom projects. Why not try:
🎃 Halloween Otto
🚀 Space Otto
🦸♀️ Superhero Otto
🐉 Dragon Otto