Why I Prefer Bigger Spools for My 3D Printing Projects

When you’re deep into 3D printing, the size of your filament spool can make a big difference in both your experience and the quality of your results. The larger the spool the better. The less it runs out and the more consistent your prints are. Right? But filament dryers and Multi Material Units are usually only built to hold 1KG spools. That is especially true for top mounted printers.

Cost-Effectiveness

One major reason to select bigger spools is their cost-effectiveness. Typically, buying a larger spool translates to a lower cost per gram of filament. When I purchase larger spools, I can save up to 30% on filament costs over time.

Reduced Downtime

Using bigger spools leads to less downtime during printing. With smaller spools, I often need to swap them out mid-print, which stops my project and wastes valuable time. For instance, a print that takes 12 hours might require an unplanned three-hour interruption if I run out of filament. With larger spools, I can print for extended periods without interruption. This uninterrupted printing is especially crucial for large projects, allowing me to shift my focus to other tasks while my printer is busy.

Increased Variety of Prints

Having a larger supply of filament allows me to explore a wide range of projects without the constant concern of running out of material. With larger spools, I have the freedom to experiment with different designs and blends, from intricate detail pieces to functional prototypes. For instance, I printed multiple pieces for a custom tabletop game, using different colors and materials. Without the pressure of small spools, I discovered new techniques that enhanced the overall quality of my work. Being able to tackle various projects has sparked my creativity and increased my productivity.

Environmental Considerations

Opting for larger spools is also more eco-friendly. By using fewer plastic spools overall, I am helping to reduce waste. Additionally, larger spools often come with less packaging, contributing to a smaller environmental footprint. As a proponent of sustainability in 3D printing, I recognize the impact of our choices. By reducing the number of spools I consume, I can enjoy my passion responsibly.

Here at HiFilament...

Here at HiFilament all of our spools are designed to fit common multi material systems and dryers, but we maximise the space we can use to fit 1.2 KG onto each and every spool.