Spool Holder Generator
A filament holder for any spool: enter diameter, width and core bore, optionally with 608 ball bearings for smooth running.
How it works
The holder consists of a sturdy frame with two open bearing cradles, two cone hubs that centre the spool, and an axle. Slide the spool with its hubs onto the axle and simply drop the axle into the frame: no tools, no screws.
The defaults fit a 1 kg spool of 200 mm diameter. For your own spools, measure diameter, width and the centre bore and enter them.
Printing notes
- Print the frame flat (side down) and the hubs with the flange down, without supports.
- Print the axle lying down with 4 walls, which makes it strongest.
- 3 walls and 15 % infill carry a 1 kg spool. For 5 kg spools use 4 walls and 25 % infill for the frame.
- With 608 bearings (skateboard bearings, 8 × 22 × 7 mm) the spool runs almost without resistance. Without bearings it turns on the smooth axle.
- If the hubs fit too tight, enter a 0.5 mm smaller spool bore or sand the hubs lightly.
Common questions
Which spools fit?
All common spools from about 100 to 300 mm in diameter. Just enter diameter, width and the centre bore. Most spools have a bore of 52 to 58 mm.
Do I need ball bearings?
No, they are optional. The cradles and the axle work without them. Bearings make the spool quieter and easier to turn.
Does the holder slide around at high speed?
The frame has a wide base. With very fast printers, place it on a non-slip mat.