Parametric Spool Drawers

Update 2025-06-01 : Added STL files for a spool column to allow spool stacking. They're sized to allow for a wide variance in spool widths and hub diameters. I've got a bunch of filament spools sitting around, and wanted to turn them into cabinets. The problem, though, is each one I have seems to be a slightly different size. The hub diameter is a bit bigger or smaller, or the gap between the rims is just slightly off. And, yeah, I know there are a bunch of models out there for spool drawers, but I wanted: configurable to fit any spool removable drawers (no hinges) specify number of drawers mix and match drawer sizes easy to print no extra hardware or modifications required So, here's my take on that… NOTE : The STL files posted here are just examples. These are what I used for a Hatchbox spool I had. They almost certainly won't fit whatever you've got. Measurements To get ones that fit, you'll need to do some measurements: od : This is the diameter of the rim. It's probably about 200mm. id : This is the diameter of the hub. Probably around 80mm. Measure this carefully and, if uncertain, use a number that's a bit larger than what you measured. ht : This is the distance between the rims. Probably around 60mm. Measure this carefully and, if uncertain, use a number that's a bit smaller than what you measured. 📷 Image redacted — claim this model to add your own media Plug these numbers into OpenSCAD: 📷 Image redacted — claim this model to add your own media Now, you've got a number of other parameters you can play with: n (number of drawers) - this can be anywhere from 3 to 12, depending on the size of drawer you want th - wall thickness of the drawer; defaults to 1.2mm r - radius of the drawer corners; defaults to 6mm gap - the space left around each drawer; defaults to 1mm; NOTE: the distance between adjacent drawers will be double this value Generating Models The part parameter specifies which model is rendered. There are several options: drawer - renders a single drawer spider - renders a full circle of drawer rails rail - renders a single rail (useful if you want to mix and match different drawer sizes) set - a single drawer plus its rail assembled - a spider plus a full set of drawers; this could technically be printed in place (I haven't tried this, so use at your own risk) exploded - a full set with one drawer open; for visualization purposes Printing The models don't require any support material. PLA is fine. Assembly The spider has a tiny gap in it. This allows you to slip it around the hub and glue it in place (I used a couple drops of superglue). I used a zip tie to clamp it to the hub while the glue set. 📷 Image redacted — claim this model to add your own media Once the glue is set, you can slide the drawers into place. 📷 Image redacted — claim this model to add your own media Future Enhancements There are a few things I can think of that might be useful: alter the rail geometry so that the drawers click closed add options for different drawer pull types add a stacking coupler add a turntable base