Create Your Own Standardized Cable Reel Storage System

Innovation in Organizing Connecting Wires

Hardware hackers often accumulate numerous connecting wires, prompting [firstgizmo] to develop a 3D-printable storage system for cable reels. As an added bonus, this system is compatible with Gridfinity!

The slot for securing the free end of the wire is an ingenious detail, and the units can be assembled without external hardware. There are many small design improvements that are worth appreciating. For instance, the notch that holds the wire ends provides a way to secure the loose ends without moving parts.

At first glance, these holders may seem to require a few screws, but they actually do not need additional hardware and can be fully assembled from printed parts. However, for those who prefer, [firstgizmo] offers an alternative design that utilizes M3 screws.

Want to make some modifications? STEP files are included, which is always welcome as it makes altering the model easier. One aspect that has remained unchanged over the years is that making engineering adjustments to STL files is extremely complicated.

A small inconvenience is that you will need to remove the wire from old reels and rewrap it onto the new ones to utilize this system. Nevertheless, [firstgizmo] has thought ahead and made this process as straightforward as possible by providing two tools for rewrapping: one for manual spinning and another for using a drill.

This is a very well-thought-out design and, as noted, can also be used with the Gridfinity system, which seems to open the gates to organization in the minds of many of us. Most of us face a lack of storage space, and small yet effective improvements in space-saving make a huge difference.