Transform your empty filament spools into a vibrant Spool Wind Spinner with this innovative design! By printing the blades and end caps that hold bearings, you can easily create a colorful and dynamic addition to your garden. This project not only adds a decorative touch but also recycles your used spools, making it both fun and eco-friendly.

Printable files and quantities:

• Blades: 3X

• End Caps: 2X

• Template: 1X

Additional parts:

• M8 Threaded rod (to serve as the axle)

• M8 Self-locking nuts: 2X

• 608 bearings: 2X

• M3x10 Screw: 6-12X (you can fix only 1 blades side for simplicity)

Printing and Assembling Instructions:

To bring your Spool Wind Spinner to life, follow these specific printing settings:

• Layer height: 0.2 mm

• Infill for blades: 15%, Lightning

• Infill for end caps: 20%, Grid minimum

• Number of perimeters: 2

• Material: PLA is acceptable, but PETG is recommended for better durability in outdoor environments.

• Supports: No supports needed

If you have a shorter or taller spool, you can adjust the blades height directly from the slicer!

If you have larger or narrower spool hole, or you have different type of bearings, end caps STEP files are provided for adaptations.

The assembly is quite simple:

First you need to make the 3mm holes on the spool, for alignment use the template available, to center just position the template between the cap that will contain the bearing and the spool, make the holes and remove the template, now align and screw the 3 blades onto the spool. 

Now insert the bearing on both caps and in the same way insert the caps into the coil. We use an 8mm threaded bar (if made of stainless steel is better for durability), we insert it between the 2 bearings and block the spool with 2 self-locking nuts (it is not necessary to tighten the nuts, otherwise you risk blocking the bearings, as soon as they touch it's fine, make sure the movement is smooth and without obstructions.

Voilà your wind spinner is ready!

Tool Objective:

The Spool Wind Spinner is designed to upcycle your empty filament spools into a charming garden decoration. By printing the blades and end caps, you can create a spinning ornament that harnesses the wind to add movement and color to your outdoor space. The use of PETG ensures the spinner’s durability against the elements, making it a long-lasting addition to your garden, in any case, PLA works well too.

For added creativity and sustainability, consider using nearly depleted filament spools to print the blades, adding unique color patterns to your wind spinner while making room in your filament storage!

Did You Know?

The windmill, an early precursor to the wind spinner, was first used over 1,500 years ago in Persia for grinding grain and pumping water. Today, garden wind spinners are enjoyed as decorative elements worldwide.

Safety Information:

While assembling the Spool Wind Spinner, ensure all parts are securely fastened to prevent any detachment during use. When placing the spinner outdoors, choose a location that’s clear of obstacles and easily visible to avoid accidental damage or injury.

Share Your Makes and Remixes!

We’re excited to see your Spool Wind Spinner creations! Share your projects and inspire others to recycle and beautify their outdoor spaces.

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