General Articles : Application and case study

3D printing, while innovative, often generates waste, particularly in the form of empty filament spools. In a video titled "Stop Throwing Away Empty Spools – Do THIS Instead!," the Spectrum Filaments team presents an ingenious solution: a set of 3D-printed modular drawers designed to transform empty spools into highly useful, stackable storage units for tools and small parts. The featured project centers on the idea of giving the standard transparent Spectrum Filaments spools a second life by utilizing the space within them. The creator, Alessio, highlights the shame of discarding spools with ready-made features like filament-hooking holes. While acknowledging that the core concept of spool-turned-drawers isn't entirely new, the video details a unique, scratch-designed system specifically for Spectrum spools.

When it comes to 3D printing functional parts, choosing the right filament is crucial. Unlike decorative or prototype prints, functional components must withstand mechanical stress, temperature variations, and environmental exposure. In this article, we’ll explore the best filaments for practical, durable, and performance-driven prints — and what makes each one suitable for the job.

Modern workspaces demands for tools that are not only functional but also adaptable, customizable, and visually appealing. Whether you’re working in an office, running a home studio, or simply trying to keep your desk tidy, the need for organization is universal.