Rope splicing fids

Print settings:

Print either vertically (no supports needed, but not as strong), or horizontally (on the flat bottom surface, in that case add supports under the tip, make them as close as possible - they will be easy to remove afterwards).

PLA, PETG, ABS, any non-flex filament without GF / CF fill (fill would make it too rough).

Recommended 0.05mm layer height to help with overhangs and reduce sanding afterwards.

50% infill, 3 perimeters.

Slow speed (<40mm/s), 100% cooling.

Post processing

Fids will be too rough for use right after printing, so hit them up with 100-600 grit sandpaper to reduce friction with the rope when splicing. No need to sand the inside. Make sure you keep the tip blunt to prevent it from catching on rope fibers.

Modifications

I included CAD model (SOLIDWORKS 2024), so you can easily make different sizes by creating a new configuration and editing global variables. Alternatively, you can use the STEP file (8mm size) to make your modifications.

Current revision is A3, engraved onto the inside bottom surface of each fid. Let me know if you need any other sizes or modifications.

Based on fids made by PSomeone, with several improvements:

1. The slot for the rope has round profile, which helps to prevent it from slipping out.
2. Wall thickness reduced to 0.6mm (on all fid sizes), which makes fids far more compact and easier to use.
3. Fids can nest inside one another (see picture), for more convenient storage and to prevent losing the smaller fids.