Turn Your Bambu Lab H2S Into a Large-Format Pen Plotter in 30 Minutes (No Mods Required)

Learn how to convert your Bambu Lab H2S 3D printer into a fully functional large-format pen plotter in less than 30 minutes, without any firmware modifications, soldering, or permanent alterations to your printer.

What You'll Create

- Large-format line art up to 340×292mm

- Custom maps and diagrams with incredible detail

- Posters and wall art with professional precision

- Technical illustrations and architectural drawings

- Large-scale calligraphy and custom lettering projects

Why This Method Works

Unlike other pen plotter conversions that require:

- ❌ Firmware modifications

- ❌ Soldering components

- ❌ Permanent hardware changes

- ❌ Complex calibration procedures

This method uses:

- ✅ A 3D-printed tool head cover with integrated pen holder

- ✅ Standard ballpoint pens

- ✅ Web-based G-code generation

- ✅ Reversible installation

- ✅ Zero technical expertise required

- ✅ Lightning-fast travel speeds (up to 300mm/s)

Hardware Components

1. Bambu Lab H2S - Your existing 3D printer

2. Standard Ballpoint Pen - 0.5mm to 0.7mm tip diameter (recommended brands: Stabilo Fineliner Point 88, Pilot G2, Uni-ball Signo)

3. H2S Tool Head Cover - 3D-printed replacement cover with integrated pen holder (STL file provided)

4. Large Format Paper - A3 (297 × 420mm) or custom sizes up to 340×292mm

5. Painter's Tape - Blue or green masking tape for securing paper

6. Precision Tools - Scissors or craft knife for tape cutting

Software Requirements

- 3dplotter.xyz Web App - Online G-code generator optimized for pen plotting with Bambu Lab, Elegoo, Creality and other 3D Printers

- USB Stick - For transferring files to your Bambu Lab printer

- Web Browser - Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge (latest versions)

Estimated Costs

- Tool Head Cover: 200g - 7oz of Filament around $2.50 (3D print yourself)

- Ballpoint Pens: $2-5 per pack

- Painter's Tape: $1-2 per roll

- Large Format Paper: $5-15 per pack

- 3dplotter license: $29.9 lifetime (limited time offer)

Total Project Cost: $35-55

Setting Up 3dplotter.xyz

Why 3dplotter.xyz?

3dplotter.xyz is a specialized web application designed specifically for converting 3D printers into pen plotters. Unlike generic G-code generators, it provides:

- Printer-specific profiles with pre-calibrated settings

- Visual canvas for real-time design preview

- Offset compensation for pen mount positioning

- One-click G-code generation optimized for drawing

- No installation required - works in any modern browser

- Large-format support for the H2S's massive bed

Account Setup Instructions

1. Navigate to https://3dplotter.xyz

2. Click "Get Started" in the top right corner

3. Create your account using:

- Email address and password

4. Verify your email (check spam folder if needed)

5. Continue to Checkout to complete your payment

6. Login to start designing

Selecting Your Printer Profile

1. Select Bambu Lab H2S from the onboarding modal

2. Select it as your active printer from the dropdown at the top:

- Build volume dimensions (340 × 320 × 320mm)

- Pen offset coordinates

- Drawing area boundaries

- Default Z-axis heights optimized for H2S

3. Enable the pen toggle next to the dropdown

Downloading the Tool Head Cover STL

1. Press the "Printers" button in the top right

2. Navigate to the "3D Models" tab within the printer settings

3. Locate "H2S Tool Head Cover" in the models list

4. Download the STL file to your computer

Preparing Your Slicer

Recommended Slicer Settings for Bambu Studio:

Material: PLA (any color)

Layer Height: 0.2mm (standard quality)

Infill Density: 20% (sufficient strength)

Infill Pattern: Gyroid or Grid

Wall Loops: 3-4 perimeters

Top/Bottom Layers: 4 layers each

Print Speed: 80-120mm/s (H2S can handle it!)

Supports: 45° angle tree supports (required)

Support Interface: Enabled

Build Plate Adhesion: None required

Estimated Print Time: 90-120 minutes

Filament Used: 180-220g

Support Placement Guide

Critical support areas:

- Pen holder opening (horizontal overhang)

- Mounting clip underside

- Any angles exceeding 45° from vertical

Support removal tip: Remove supports gently with needle-nose pliers, working from the bottom up to avoid breaking the pen holder walls.

Post-Processing Steps

1. Remove all support material carefully

2. Test fit your pen - it should slide smoothly without binding

3. Check mounting clips - they should be flexible but not loose

4. Inspect the tool head cover - ensure all mounting points are intact

Recommended Pens (Tested Compatibility)

| Pen Brand | Model | Tip Size | Performance |

| Stabilo | Fineliner Point 88 | 0.4mm | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent |

| Pilot | G2 Gel | 0.5mm | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good |

| Uni-ball | Signo | 0.5mm | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good |

| Sakura | Pigma Micron | 0.45mm | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Excellent |

| Staedtler | Triplus Fineliner | 0.3mm | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Very Good |

Note: The Stabilo Fineliner Point 88 (0.4mm) is recommended for beginners due to consistent ink flow and optimal line weight.

Safety Precautions

- ⚠️ Power off your Bambu Lab H2S before installation

- ⚠️ Allow to cool if recently used (wait 10-15 minutes)

Removing the Original Tool Head Cover

Step-by-step removal process:

1. Locate the tool head cover - This is the plastic cover on top of the hotend assembly

2. Gently pull out and upward - The cover is held by friction clips

3. Do not force - If it doesn't release easily, wiggle gently side-to-side

4. Set aside safely - Store the original cover for later reinstallation

5. Inspect mounting area - Ensure no dust or debris on the mounting surface

Photo reference points:

- Cover is located at the top of the toolhead carriage

- Alignment tabs on the sides

- Smooth plastic surface with Bambu Lab logo

Installing the New Tool Head Cover with Pen Holder

Installation procedure:

1. Orient the tool head cover correctly:

- Pen holder clamps face forward (toward the front of the printer)

- Mounting clips align with the toolhead slots

- Flat mounting surface sits flush against the extruder body

2. Press down and in firmly until you hear/feel a click

- Apply even pressure on both sides

- The cover should sit completely flush

- No gaps should be visible around the edges

3. Test stability by gently wiggling the cover

- Should not move or rotate

- Should feel as secure as the original cover

- If loose, remove and reinstall

Loading the Pen

Proper pen installation technique:

1. Insert the pen from the bottom of the pen holder

2. For Stabilo pens: where the cap touches the bottom of the pen holder is the ideal height

3. Secure with a screw at the top of the pen holder

Height adjustment tips:

- Too low: Pen will drag and potentially tear paper

- Too high: Pen won't make contact with paper

- Perfect height: Pen tip just touches paper with minimal pressure

Activating the Pen Plotter Interface

1. Log into 3dplotter.xyz with your account

2. Locate the printer selection dropdown in the top toolbar

3. Find the "Pen" toggle switch next to the printer name

4. Click to enable - the interface will update to show:

- Large drawing canvas with pen-safe area

- Pen-specific tools (line, curve, text)

- G-code generation optimized for 2D plotting

Understanding the Large-Format Drawing Canvas

Visual indicators on the canvas:

- Black area: Safe drawing zone (fully accessible) - 340×292mm!

- Red area: Restricted zone (pen mount offset prevents access)

- Grid lines: 10mm spacing for precise positioning

Why is there a red restricted area?

The tool head cover offsets the pen position from the original hotend location. The red zone marks areas the pen physically cannot reach due to:

- Pen mount geometry extending beyond the toolhead

- Mechanical limits of the gantry system

- Safety margins to prevent collisions

Usable drawing area dimensions:

- Bambu Lab H2S total bed: 340 × 320mm

- Pen plotter usable area: ~312 × 292mm (accounting for offset)

- Safe margin from edges: 10mm on all sides

Design Creation Methods

Method 1: Drawing Tools

- Line tool: Click points to create connected line segments

- Curve tool: Drag to create smooth bezier curves

- Shape tools: Rectangles, circles, polygons

- Eraser: Remove unwanted elements

Method 2: Text Input

1. Click the "Add Text" button

2. Type your desired text (supports Unicode characters)

3. Choose font (options include Hershey fonts optimized for single-line drawing)

4. Adjust size and position - go big on the H2S!

5. Text is converted to continuous line paths

Method 3: Pattern Generation

- Geometric patterns: Select from pre-made designs

- Hatch patterns: Adjust density and angle

- Parametric designs: Spirals, waves, fractals

- Grid patterns: Customizable spacing and line weight

Method 4: Image Import

1. Click "Import Image" button

2. Upload a line art image (PNG, JPG, SVG formats supported)

3. Recommended image types:

- Line drawings with clear edges

- High contrast black and white images

- Vector graphics (SVG) for best results

- Maps and technical diagrams

- Large-format artwork

4. Adjust image-to-path conversion settings:

- Threshold: Controls which pixels become lines

- Simplification: Reduces number of points (faster plotting)

- Edge detection: Finds outlines in photos

5. Position and scale your imported design - use the full canvas!

Critical Plotter Settings

Z-Axis Configuration (MUST be correct for H2S):

Z-Draw Height: 12mm

Z-Lift Height: 20mm

(for Stabilo pens with H2S tool head cover)

What these settings mean:

- Z-Draw (12mm): Height where pen tip touches paper and draws

- Lower values = more pressure (darker lines, risk of tearing)

- Higher values = less pressure (lighter lines, may skip)

- 12mm is calibrated for the H2S tool head cover design

- Z-Lift (20mm): Height where pen lifts during travel moves

- Must be high enough to clear the paper completely

- Prevents accidental marks during repositioning

- 20mm provides safe clearance for most setups

Speed Settings (H2S Advantage):

- Travel Speed: 18000mm/min (300mm/s) - Lightning fast!

- Draw Speed: 1800mm/min (30mm/s) - Smooth and precise

How to verify settings:

1. Navigate to "Plotter Settings"

2. Confirm Z-Draw = 12 and Z-Lift = 20

3. If values differ, update them and click "Save"

Downloading Your G-code

Step-by-step download process:

1. Review your design on the canvas

- Check that all elements are within the white (safe) area

- Verify text is readable and oriented correctly

- Ensure no overlapping lines that would double-draw

- Take advantage of the large canvas!

2. Click "Download G-code" button (bottom-right)

3. G-code preview modal appears showing:

- Paths

- Layers

- Plate Size (340×320mm)

- Plotter Settings

4. Final checks before download:

- ✅ Printer profile: Bambu Lab H2S

- ✅ Pen mode: Enabled

- ✅ Z-heights: 12mm draw, 20mm lift

- ✅ Design fits within safe area

5. Click "Download" in the modal

6. Save to a memorable location on your computer

For Multicolor Pen Plotting

Create layers - each layer is exported as a single G-code file. Choose a different pen color for each G-code file.

USB Stick or Network Transfer

Option 1: USB Stick

1. Remove the USB Stick from the printer's SD card slot

- Location: Left Top Side

2. Insert USB Stick into your computer

3. Copy the .gcode file to the USb Stick root directory

4. Safely eject and reinsert into H2S

Option 2: Network Transfer (beta)

1. Ensure H2S is connected to your network

2. Use 3dplotter printer bridge to connect your printer in lan mode

3. Sent the G-code file directly to the printer

Preparing Your Large-Format Paper

Paper securing technique for best results:

1. Choose your paper:

- A3 paper (297 × 420mm): Standard large format

- A3+ or custom sizes: Up to 340×292mm

- Cardstock (200-300gsm): Best for large finished pieces

- Standard printer paper (80gsm): Good for practice

2. Position paper on the print bed:

- Align with the front-left corner

- Use scissors to cut to size if needed

- Large paper requires more securing!

3. Secure with painter's tape:

- Place tape strips on all four corners

- Add tape every 40-50mm along all edges for large paper

- Smooth out any bubbles or wrinkles

- Press tape firmly to prevent paper movement

- Use extra tape for large formats - paper movement is your enemy!

Pro tip: For A3 plots, tape down the entire perimeter with overlapping strips for maximum stability.

Running Your First Plot

Startup procedure:

1. Tap "Print files" on the touchscreen display

2. Navigate to "USB" or network files section

3. Find your G-code file in the list

- Look for the filename you created

- Important: Select the file WITHOUT an underscore prefix

4. Preview appears showing file info:

- Filename

- File size

5. Tap "Print" to start

6. Printer will begin homing - toolhead moves to corners

7. Pen will lift to Z-Lift height (20mm)

8. Plotting begins - watch the magic happen at high speed!

What to Expect During Plotting

Normal operation indicators:

- Smooth X/Y movements: Pen glides across paper

- FAST travel moves: Up to 300mm/s between paths!

- Regular pen lifts: Between disconnected lines

- Consistent line quality: Even ink flow

- Quiet operation: Stepper motors at low speed during drawing

- Enclosed chamber: Keeps your plot dust-free

Problem: Pen Not Drawing

Symptoms:

- Pen moves but leaves no marks

- Intermittent line gaps

- Very faint lines

Solutions:

1. Check pen functionality:

- Test pen on scrap paper by hand

- Replace if ink flow is poor

- Try a different pen brand

2. Adjust Z-Draw height (lower the pen):

- In 3dplotter.xyz settings, try: 11mm, 10mm, 9mm

- Download new G-code and test

- Find the sweet spot where lines are consistent

3. Verify pen installation:

- Pen should be vertical (use a level)

- Pen tip extends beyond mount

- No wobble or movement

4. Check paper surface:

- Some papers resist ink better than others

- Try different paper types

- Ensure paper is clean and dry

Problem: Large Paper Moving During Plot

Symptoms:

- Paper shifts mid-plot

- Lines don't align correctly

- Wrinkles or buckling

Solutions:

1. Add MORE tape (critical for large formats):

- Tape all four corners securely

- Add strips every 30-40mm along ALL edges

- Use wider tape (2-inch painter's tape)

- For A3 plots, tape the entire perimeter

2. Improve tape adhesion:

- Clean print bed with isopropyl alcohol first

- Press tape down firmly

3. Use heavier paper:

- Cardstock (200-300gsm) is more stable

- Thicker paper resists movement better

- Essential for large-format plots

4. Check for bed level issues:

- Run printer's auto-leveling routine

- Ensure bed is clean and flat

- Inspect for warping or damage

Problem: Printer Not Moving / G-code Not Running

Symptoms:

- Display shows file but nothing happens

- Error messages

- Toolhead doesn't move

Solutions:

1. Verify printer profile:

- Log into 3dplotter.xyz

- Confirm "Bambu Lab H2S" is selected

- Re-download G-code with correct profile

Problem: Pen Dragging or Tearing Paper

Symptoms:

- Paper tears or punctures

- Heavy pen pressure marks

- Paper lifts off bed during travel moves

Solutions:

1. Raise Z-Draw height:

- Increase from 12mm to 13mm or 14mm

- Test with shorter plots first

- Find balance between contact and pressure

2. Use heavier paper:

- Switch to cardstock (200-300gsm)

- Thicker paper resists tearing better

- More stable during plotting

3. Reduce pen extension:

- Retract pen slightly in the mount

- Less leverage = less pressure

- Adjust until tip just makes contact

4. Check for tool head cover misalignment:

- Reinstall cover - ensure it's straight

- Pen should be perfectly vertical

- No angle should be visible

Problem: Travel Moves Too Fast

Symptoms:

- Paper vibrates during travel moves

- Tape starts to peel

Solutions:

- Reduce move speed in settings (from 18000 to 12000mm/min)

- Add more tape to secure paper

- Use heavier paper

Advanced Calibration Guide

Running the Calibration G-code

Why calibrate?

Every printer has slight variations in:

- Bed levelness (especially important on large beds)

- Z-axis offset

- Tool head cover manufacturing tolerance

- Pen tip length variation

Calibration procedure:

1. Download the Full calibration test G-code from 3dplotter.xyz:

- Navigate to the bottom of the right section

- Click "Full calibration test G-code"

- Use the full-size test to check the entire bed

2. Transfer to USB Stick (same process as your plots)

3. Prepare calibration paper:

- Use A3 white paper

- Tape down securely with extra tape

- Mark with your name/date for reference

4. Run the calibration G-code:

- Select from USB menu

- Calibration draws a series of test patterns across the full bed:

- Straight lines (horizontal and vertical)

- Diagonal lines (45° angles)

- Circles (various sizes)

- Grid pattern (spacing accuracy)

- Text (legibility test)

- Corner tests (all four corners)

5. Inspect the results

Evaluating Line Quality

| Line Quality | Z-Draw Adjustment | Action |

|--------------|-------------------|---------|

| Too light / invisible | Decrease 0.5-1mm | Lower pen closer to bed |

| Perfect / consistent | No change | Current height is ideal |

| Too dark / tearing | Increase 0.5-1mm | Raise pen away from bed |

| Inconsistent | Check bed level | Run auto-level, check pen mount |

Calibration Interpretation

✅ Good calibration result:

- All lines are visible and consistent **across the entire bed**

- Corners are clean (no overrun)

- Circles are round (not oval)

- Text is legible at small sizes

- No ink blobs or skipping

- Consistent quality from corner to corner

❌ Poor calibration - needs adjustment:

- Lines fade in/out

- Gaps in continuous lines

- Extreme pressure (paper dents)

- Misaligned corners

- Oval circles (indicates axis issue)

- Inconsistent quality across the bed (bed leveling issue)

Fine-tuning Steps

1. Adjust Z-Draw by 0.5mm increments

2. Download new G-code with updated settings

3. Re-run calibration plot

4. Compare results - keep the best performing height

5. Document your ideal setting for future reference

6. For large beds, check bed level if corners differ

Tips for Best Results

Paper Selection Guide for Large Format

| Paper Type | Weight | Best For | Ink Quality | Cost |

|------------|--------|----------|-------------|------|

| Standard Printer | 80gsm | Practice, drafts | Good | $ |

| Premium Printer | 100-120gsm | General plotting | Very Good | $$ |

| Cardstock | 200-300gsm | Large format (recommended) | Excellent | $$$ |

| Bristol Board | 270gsm | Professional work | Excellent | $$$ |

| Watercolor | 190-300gsm | Artistic effects | Variable | $$$$ |

Note: For A3 plots, cardstock (200-300gsm) is highly recommended for stability.

Pen Selection by Project Type

Large-format text and lettering:

- Stabilo Point 88 (0.4mm) - Clean, professional look

- Pilot Precise V5 (0.5mm) - Consistent ink flow

Large-format artwork:

- Sakura Pigma Micron (0.45mm) - Archival quality

- Staedtler Pigment Liner (0.3mm) - Waterproof

Design Best Practices for Large Format

Optimizing designs for large-format pen plotting:

1. Use single-line fonts (Hershey fonts) rather than filled fonts

- Plots 10x faster

- Cleaner results

- Less pen wear

2. Take advantage of the large canvas:

- Design for A3 or A3+ sizes

- Use the full 312×292mm area

- Create impressive wall art

3. Plan for long plot times:

- Complex A3 plots can take 1-2 hours

- Ensure pen has enough ink

- Monitor the first few minutes

4. Secure large paper properly:

- Use extra tape

- Check paper security before starting

- Consider using clips in addition to tape

General Questions

Q: Will this damage my 3D printer?

A: No. This is a completely reversible modification that doesn't alter firmware, electronics, or mechanical components. The tool head cover simply replaces the original cover and can be swapped in seconds.

Q: Can I still use my printer for 3D printing after installing the tool head cover?

A: Yes! Simply remove the tool head cover and reinstall the original cover. Takes less than 30 seconds to switch between modes.

Q: What makes the H2S special for pen plotting?

A: The H2S offers the largest plotting area in the Bambu Lab lineup (340×292mm), plus lightning-fast travel speeds (up to 300mm/s) and an enclosed chamber to keep your plots dust-free.

Q: Do I need to modify firmware or install custom software?

A: No firmware modifications required. All G-code is generated by the web app and is standard-compliant G-code that any 3D printer can read.

Q: How accurate is the pen plotting compared to professional plotters?

A: The H2S has positioning accuracy of ±0.1mm, which matches or exceeds many professional pen plotters. The main advantage is the massive plotting area at a fraction of the cost.

Technical Questions

Q: What G-code flavor does 3dplotter.xyz generate?

A: Standard RepRap/Marlin/and other G-code, compatible with virtually all FDM 3D printers.

Q: Can I use the Bambu Lab's built-in network printing for pen plots?

A: Yes! The H2S supports network printing. You can transfer G-code via LAN with 3dplotter bridge app (in beta) or use SD card.

Q: What's the maximum plotting area?

A: For the Bambu Lab H2S, usable plotting area is approximately 312 × 292mm after accounting for pen mount offset. Total bed is 340 × 320mm.

Q: Can I plot on materials other than paper?

A: Yes! Users have successfully plotted on wood veneer, fabric, cardboard, plastic sheets, leather, canvas, and whiteboard surfaces.

Q: How do I plot in multiple colors?

A: Plot each color separately with individual G-Code per layer. You'll need to swap the pen for each layer.

Q: Why are the travel speeds so fast?

A: The H2S is designed for high-speed 3D printing (up to 1000mm/s). For pen plotting, we use 300mm/s travel speeds to reduce plot times while maintaining precision.

Q: Can I slow down the travel speeds?

A: Yes! In the plotter settings, you can reduce the move speed from 18000mm/min to 12000mm/min or lower if needed.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully transformed your Bambu Lab H2S into a large-format precision pen plotter. This opens up a world of creative possibilities:

✅ Create large-format artwork up to A3+ size

✅ Draw impressive posters and wall art

✅ Plot detailed maps and technical diagrams

✅ Experiment with generative art at scale

✅ Produce large educational materials and presentations

✅ Create professional signage and displays

What's Next?

- Experiment with different pen types and paper combinations

- Join the 3dplotter.xyz community to share your large-format creations

- Try multi-color plots with manual pen swaps

- Explore generative art scripts and algorithmic designs

- Push the boundaries of what's possible with the largest Bambu Lab plotter!

Remember: The tool head cover is completely reversible. Switch back to 3D printing anytime by simply reinstalling the original cover. Your H2S is now a two-in-one machine!

Last Updated: February 5, 2026

Guide Version: 1.0

Compatible Printers: Bambu Lab H2S

Software Version: 3dplotter.xyz (latest)

Ready to create your first large-format plot? Head over to 3dplotter.xyz and start transforming your ideas into physical drawings!