3D-Printed Yarn Winder – Gear-Driven Easy-Print Edition 100% Printable

Summary

This is a 100% printable yarn winder designed to turn loose yarn or threads into clean, compact balls — easily, quickly, and reliably.

Key Features

• Fully 3D printable — no screws, bearings, rubber bands or glue required

• Open guide spiral allows easy yarn removal without cutting

• Print-in-place rotary handle for smooth, comfortable turning

• Optimized for PLA only — no TPU or PETG required

About This Version

This model is based on everything I learned from my first TPU-belt version.
After receiving a lot of helpful feedback, I wanted to create a winder that:

• prints more easily

• uses only standard PLA

• avoids flexible belts and additional materials

• integrates all improvements from the earlier design

• The result is a simpler, stronger, and more reliable yarn winder — still fully 3D printable, now even more accessible.

Link to the previous version

BOM

Changelog

Assembly

Tip: Lightly sanding and lubricating the rotating parts can improve smoothness.

Step 1 – Spinning Unit Preparation

• Screw the spinning wheel screw into the spinning centre.

• Place the weight into the recess.

• Screw the drive screw into the spinning centre.

Step 2 – Plate Assembly

• Screw the axis into the plate.

• Insert the outrigger and secure it with the outrigger bolt.

• Screw the yarn guide into the outrigger.

• Mount the drive wheel into the plate using the wheel spacer and the drive wheel screw.

• Mount the gear into the plate using the wheel spacer and the gear screw.

Step 3 – Install the Spinning Unit

• Place the assembled spinning unit (from Step 1) onto the axis.

• Secure it by screwing on the axle end.

Step 4 – Install the Spinning Wheel & Engage the Gear

• Push the spinning wheel onto the spinning wheel screw.

• Lift the spinning unit slightly if needed to help the gear engage with the axle end.

Step 5 – Table Clamps (Optional)

• For each table clamp required:

• Screw the clamping screw through the clamp mount.

• Push the foot onto the joint of the clamping screw.

• Insert the clamp mount into any plate slot and tighten to secure the winder to a table.

Done :)

Leave a comment if you like the project or leave a make if you made it too :) have fun winding