How do they work?
Elefilament Refills fit on to the Masterspool. Just unscrew the 2 halves, insert the 3D printing refill and tighten it up. Line up the cable ties with the slots in the Masterspool. Undo the re-usable cable ties.
Use the reel as normal. When you want to change colour, simply replace the colour on to the spool. To do this, re-tie the cable ties, unscrew the 2 halves and lift the filament off the spool.
How do I get my masterspool
At the moment you can download and print your own at thingiverse - https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:2843577 or from Myminifactory https://www.myminifactory.com/object/3d-print-masterspool-61595 . We have adapted the design for small beds - https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:3175515 - this one has an improved screw (we found the screw in the original design could sometimes become jammed).
Printing your own spool means you can use up all the odds and ends of material you have since you won't really mind what colour. The more multi-coloured the better, we say!
Thanks to Richard at Rep Rap for his design - a true hero of the modern age.
Why should I use a masterspool?
The main advantages are cost and reduced waste. The cost of the reel is about 40p, so we can remove this element during manufacture.
You are also being kinder to the environment by reducing waste. You will no longer have an empty spool to deal with.
You will have an extra item - 3 cable ties. These are re-useable so keep them when your spool is finished and see what else you can keep tidy with them.