Modular Spool Holder with PTFE Filament Guides

A functional, low-friction spool holder system designed specifically for active filament feeding. Unlike standard modular frames intended for storage, this model incorporates snap-in PTFE rollers and integrated guidance paths to ensure a smooth experience during loading and printing.

Uses only 49g of filament and prints in ~70mins.

Features

• Low-Friction PTFE Rollers: Uses 7cm PTFE tube segments as the contact point for the spool. This creates an optimal level of friction, enabling the spool to roll freely without rotating further than necessary.
• Integrated Filament Management: Features built-in PTFE tube guides at the front and base, simulating an AMS-style loading path for easy feeding to the toolhead.
• Secure Modular Linking: Includes dedicated locking clips to bridge multiple holders, ensuring stability when used in parallel for multi-material setups (e.g., AMS, BMCU or manual swaps).
• Spool Compatibility: Fits most 0.5kg to 1kg plastic and cardboard spools up to a width of 65mm.

There is a version available without the PTFE tube path (still includes PTFE rollers).

Hardware

• Standard PTFE tubing (4mm OD)
• Minimum 14cm for rollers, plus additional length for the feed path (approx. 40cm depending on setup)
• Can be bought online for ~10€ for 4m 

Assembly

1. Print the spool holder.
2. Cut two 7 cm (2.75 in) PTFE segments.

3. Press PTFE ends into the cutout, then snap the center down to secure the segment in place. Repeat for the other side.

   

4. Thread your long PTFE tube through the bottom guides toward the front.
5. Bend and snap the tube into the front guide. Push from the back until the tube protrudes ~3 cm (1.2 in) from the exit.
6. Pull the tube forward into the front notch to clamp it securely in place.

Printing

As the model is optimized for functionality and rigidity, 
it is recommended to use the following settings:

• 0.28mm layer height
• 0.6mm layer width
• Arachne wall generator
• 2 walls
• at least 3 top/bottom shell layers

Inspiration

This model is heavily inspired by Idea Labs Modular Spool Holder. 
If you are searching for a filament storage solution, i can most definitely recommend their model.

Change Log

• [17.06.26] - adds version without PTFE tube path

Design by PenguinPrototypes on MakerWorld (license: BY-SA).