The ultimate spool holder

thingiverse

This spool holder for Makerbot Replicator 2 is simple yet powerful, attaching easily to the printer under its roof lip. Its three 12mm brass rods slide into the feet and top hooks without fastening, while the press-fitted crossbar ensures stability. The standing rods have a 20-degree angle backward for added support. Mounted with hooks forward, the center of gravity is above the mounting position. The spool bearing adapters are designed to hold spools with inner diameters ranging from 32mm to 56mm, made in two halves and secured with 3mm bolts. Creating three sets allows for accommodating both 32mm and 52-56mm spools. However, note that the adapters may warp during printing, ensuring a perfect press fit with the spools. The parts list includes three 12mm tubes/rods (optional length: 40cm each), two ball bearings (6301 2RS, 12x37x12mm), and four 3mm bolts and nuts. The designed parts are two spool feet, two spool tops, and four spool bearing adapters, all printable in Autodesk Inventor (part files provided). Any feedback and suggestions for improvement are welcome! Printing instructions specify three shells, 35% infill, and a layer height of 0.25mm. For optimal printing, the spool foot should be printed on its side, while the spool top is best printed flat side down, and the spool bearing adapter should stand (in a half-moon shape).