Step-By-Step Guide to Using California Filament Cardboard Spools on the Bambu Labs AMS
Step 1: Start with a cardboard spools that conforms to the design pictured.
Step 2: Print the California Filament Cardboard Spool Adapter
You can find the stl files on our Cardboard Spool Adapter post.
One quick warning: The Spool Adapter creates a smaller diameter hole on the inside of the spool. This process is not reversible and may not be compatible with your filament spool holder on other printers. Please keep that in mind.
Step 3: Identify the "keyed" side of the adapter.
You want to start with the keyed side flat on your work surface. Keyed means the side with the notches that fit into the holes on our cardboard spools.
Step 4: The remaining steps will make more sense if you jump ahead and review Step 8.
IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMOVE THE CORRECT SIDE OF THE CARDBOARD.
If you haven't already read through the full instructions, we recommend reading the full post before you start this process.
Step 5: Place the spool flat on the keyed side with the filament running in a *clockwise direction*.
We are going to remove the top piece of cardboard from the spool in Step 8. When the spool is placed in the AMS, it's important that the filament feed over the top of the spool and that the the LEFT side of the cardboard spool is removed. Removing the left side ensures that the plastic spool will fit properly in the notch at the bottom of the AMS.
Step 6: Make sure the "bitter-end" of the filament is attached to keyed side of the spool.
You may need to move the "bitter-end" of the filament to the other side, you may not.
Step 7: DOUBLE CHECK EVERYTHING BEFORE REMOVING THE CARDBOARD SIDING.
The filament should be placed on the keyed side spool.
The filament should be wound around the spool in a clockwise direction.
The bitter-end should be attached to the keyed side on the bottom.
Step 8: Carefully remove the top side of the cardboard spool.
Step 9: Screw the threaded side of the adapter into the keyed side.
Make sure it is screwed in tightly and completely to hold the filament in place.
You're DONE! You're ready to print with your AMS!
The plastic-only side goes on the left to fit the notch on the bottom of the AMS. The plastic&cardboard side goes on the right.
