Earlier this year, in an attempt to streamline my 3d printing efforts and avoid frequently changing PLA spools, I was convinced to try a large-spool format. Specifically, I opted for the 5 kg spool of grey PLA from Gizmodorks (gizmodorks.com). This was in comparison to my previous use of 1 kg spools, typically Hatchbox brand.
With the smaller spools, the issue I would rather commonly encounter is simply running out of thread due to printing(due to an ongoing sensor issue), and occasionally a “out of stock” situation with the PLA supply. The larger spool would of course hold 5x as much material, thus 5x less concerns, at an equivalent price.
At this point, I am finally wrapping up my first mega-spool – 5 kg of associated prints completed and processed. I expect my final print to wrap up this evening, which is just in time for a replacement spool to arrive tomorrow. In total, the spool has lasted me nearly 3 and a half months (I ordered it initially March 6), though my printing schedule has not been steady with our recent move.
As a first time use of Gizmodorks, I have to say I am rather happy with the quality and consistency. The grey color is consistent, and a nice neutral color that works well for painting and modeling efforts, but not too out of place for non-gaming activities. As expected, the thickness and tolerance is very steady – I have had no printing issues at all that can be attributed to the filament itself. Moisture content has not been an issue at all, simply due to the lack of age of the spool.
Hatchbox 1 kg spool of Grey PLA – www.amazon.com
Gizmodorks 5 kg spool of Grey PLA – www.amazon.com or gizmodorks.com
