Thinner Spindles For Yarn Winder (12-25mm)

Update Feb 2026: Multiple diameters of spindle have been added. All new models have the V2 prefix. New spindles are not compatible with the old V1 base and bolt.

Details:

This is a smaller yarn winder spool for a generic Amazon yarn winder

Link to the winder on Amazon

Original Winder: 40mm diameter, and 80mm in height

This Winder: 12-25mm diameter, and 70mm in height

The smaller sizes allows for spinning smaller/more compact balls from shorter lengths of yarn.

Instructions:

The design is printed in three parts, a base, spindle, and bolt. See images for printing reference. It is recommended to use the V2 versions.

Printing:

Spindle/Thread:

The thread on the bolt and spindle are delicate, so it is recommended to print at a lower layer height (0.1mm). To achieve this without slowing down printing of the entire part, use the Variable layer height option in your slicer. Set the Quality/Speed slider to 0.1, and press the Adaptive button. This does an excellent job of detecting and compensating for the internal and external threads.

Base:

The base can be printed in two different orientations.

Upside down: In this orientation, the top of the base is on the printer bed, and the 'wings' will need supports.

Right-side up. This is the intended orientation. The part includes internal geometry to allow printing the 'roof', while supporting the hole in the centre of the part. Enable Thick Bridges for best results. See above images for reference.

Assembly:

The bolt screws from the underside of the base, and into the bottom of the spindle. (Check images for reference).

The bolt can either be fastened with a flathead screwdriver, or 16mm socket (trying not to over-tighten it).