The DeadSpool (or empty spool) project is an initiative aimed at finding solutions for recycling empty 3D filament spools. When you use 3D printing regularly, you usually end up with a stock of empty spool as you consume the filament.
Some ideas for Deadspool conversion projects…
Choose a manufacturer offering recyclable spools
Some 3D filament dealers offer empty cardboard spools, such as
or opt for spool refills:
Return empty spools to manufacturers
Few filament suppliers do. If you have contacts to share, please do so in the comments.
Deadspool mobile robot
You can create a mobile robot using an empty spool of filament. I have models, schematics and code that I’ll put online if people are interested. You can use an Arduino to drive DC motors and add distance sensors on the front to avoid obstacles.
Storage drawer
It’s also possible to print little crates that fit into the middle of the empty reel. The result is pretty cool, practical and an excellent gift idea. If you have the dimensions of the spools, I can easily produce the 3D models.
Pencil case
All you have to do is cut holes in the surface to the desired size and place the objects you want in them.
Display
This idea is simple and practical if you have the space and make small prints. Empty spools can then be used as displays in store windows, for example. To enhance the look, the whole thing can be painted or covered with fabric.
Turntable
By adding a ball bearing or motor, you can easily transform empty spools into an automatic or manual turntable. You can then use this tray as a display stand or as a support for painting your creations.
Cable reel
Perhaps the simplest idea for recycling an empty spool is to use the spool for its original purpose: winding cable. If you buy cable or rope by the metre, this is certainly an interesting idea for tidying up your workshop. All you have to do is hang a tube on the wall to create a row of cable dispensers.
Wheel for mini-kart or toy
You can turn the empty spool into a wheel. There are certainly a few parts to be added to create a tire and to fix the wheel, but nothing that can’t be done with 3D printing.
Create a piece of furniture
You can stack the empty spools on one or more columns and fix a wooden board on top. With this method, you can create stools, coffee tables or even shelves.
Recycling spool into sculpture
I don’t have any ideas yet, but I’m sure someone will think of something!
Other initiatives
Prusa offers spools designed to be reusable – take a look!
I invite you to leave your recycling ideas or other initiatives in the comments or to send us a message.
unfortunately, this information is a repeat of many other sites. there is no new information here, and at the end of the day, no real solution to the filament spool problem. Making more things out of spools just kicks the can down the road, because eventually the things you make will become unwanted clutter and will get thrown away. So far, I haven’t seen any place that actually melts down and reuses the plastic or better yet, re-spool filament and sell it. It would be great if there was a standardized spool design that everyone used so everyone could take empty spools and refill them (think propane cylinders for grills). Thanks for giving a place to share ideas.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts!