Refill Spool Holder: A Practical Solution for Sustainable 3D Printing
Introduction
One of the lesser-discussed challenges in 3D printing is the accumulation of empty filament spools. For hobbyists and professionals alike, these discarded spools can quickly pile up, taking up storage space and contributing to plastic waste. While many manufacturers design their spools from durable materials, the reality is that they are often not recycled or reused effectively. In response to this problem, the industry has introduced refill coils—spool-less filament bundles that minimize plastic use. To make these coils functional, a refill spool holder is used. This simple yet ingenious accessory not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances efficiency and convenience for everyday 3D printing.
What is a Refill Spool Holder?
A refill spool holder is a reusable frame or hub designed to hold spool-less filament coils. It works much like a traditional spool, keeping the filament steady and allowing it to unwind smoothly as your 3D printer operates. These holders are typically made from sturdy materials such as injection-molded plastic, aluminum, or even 3D-printed components, making them accessible for makers who want to build their own.
Unlike disposable spools, which are thrown away after use, the refill spool holder is used repeatedly. This concept aligns with the growing “reduce and reuse” mindset in modern manufacturing and personal fabrication.
Why Use a Refill Spool Holder?
The adoption of refill spool holders offers several benefits that go beyond simple convenience:
Eco-Friendly Printing
Each traditional spool can weigh up to 250 grams of plastic. Multiply that by dozens of spools used per year, and the waste becomes significant. By switching to refill coils with a reusable holder, makers can drastically reduce their plastic footprint.
Lower Filament Costs
Refill coils are typically priced lower than their spooled counterparts. This is because manufacturers save on packaging and shipping costs, passing those savings on to consumers. For high-volume users, these savings add up quickly.
Space-Saving Storage
Spool-less coils are compact and easier to store in bulk. The refill spool holder is only needed during actual printing, allowing users to keep their workspace more organized.
Customization & Community Designs
Many open-source designs are available for download on platforms like Thingiverse and Printables. Makers can modify them to fit different coil sizes, experiment with lightweight designs, or even incorporate bearings for smoother unwinding.
Types of Refill Spool Holders
Clip-Based Holders
Lightweight and simple, often 3D printed. They use clips to hold the filament coil together.
Threaded Hub Holders
Provide a more secure grip by threading through the inner diameter of the coil, ensuring smooth and even unwinding.
To download this printable Refill System by Spectrum Filaments, click the link below.
https://www.printables.com/model/1416242-refill-system-spectrum
Practical Tips for Using Refill Spool Holders
Check Coil Orientation – Always load the filament in the direction recommended by the manufacturer to avoid tangling.
Label Your Coils – Since refill coils don’t have built-in spools with brand labels, mark the coil with filament type, color, and remaining weight for easy tracking.
Store Properly – Keep coils in resealable bags with silica gel to avoid moisture absorption.
Final Thoughts
The refill spool holder is more than just a convenience—it represents a meaningful step toward sustainable and efficient 3D printing. By reducing plastic waste, lowering costs, and giving makers the freedom to design and customize their own solutions, refill spool holders encourage a greener future for the 3D printing community. Whether you invest in a manufacturer-designed holder or print one yourself, adopting this system is a smart move for anyone serious about responsible and efficient 3D printing.
Checkout our YT video below to know more about the Spectrum Refill Spool Holder
Also, feel free to browse our wide range of Refill filaments for you to choose from on the link below.
https://spectrumfilaments.com/en/filament-types/refill-en/