Filling your own capsules by hand is cheaper than buying pre-filled ones and gives you total control over what goes inside. The downside most people hit on day one: powder everywhere, capsules that won't close, and no idea whether each one holds the same amount.
This guide walks through a clean, repeatable method that works for any capsule size.
What you'll need
- Empty capsules in your chosen size (not sure which? See our capsule size chart)
- Your powder, dry and free of clumps
- A small digital scale with a tare (zero) button — one that reads to 0.01 g is ideal
- Something to hold the capsule upright while you fill — a capsule filler scoop, or at a minimum a steady hand
- A small spoon, spatula or folded card for moving powder
- A tray or sheet of paper underneath to catch strays
Step 1: Set up a clean, dry workspace
Moisture is the enemy. Damp powder clumps and sticks, and capsules get soft or tacky in humid air. Work on a dry surface, keep your hands dry, and lay down paper so any spills can be poured back into the container.
Step 2: Separate the capsules
Each capsule has a longer body and a shorter cap. Gently pull them apart and set the caps aside where they won't roll away. You'll fill the body (and, if you like, a little in the cap).
Step 3: Hold the body upright and zero your scale
Place the capsule body in your holder, set it on the scale, and press tare. Now the scale reads only the powder you add — not the capsule or the holder.
Step 4: Fill to your target weight
Add powder a little at a time. As you get close to your target, slow down and add in small taps. If the powder starts to mound up before you hit your target, tap the holder gently on the table to settle it, then continue.
Step 5: Close the capsule
Line the cap up straight over the body and press until you feel it click into place. If it won't lock, the capsule is probably overfilled — tip a little out and try again rather than forcing it, which can dent the cap.
Step 6: Repeat, then store properly
Re-tare for each capsule so every fill is measured on its own. When you're done, store capsules in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
Tips for faster, cleaner filling
- Work in batches: separate all your capsules first, then fill, then close. It's faster than doing one start to finish.
- Keep powder loose: break up clumps with a fork before you start.
- Don't eyeball it: two capsules that look equally full can hold very different amounts, especially with fluffy powders. The scale removes the guesswork.
- Clean between powders: rinse and dry your tools when switching powders so nothing carries over.
Make it easier with a capsule filler scoop
The hardest part of hand-filling is holding a tiny capsule half steady. Our Capsule Filler Scoop does that for you: it holds the capsule upright on your scale so you can tare, fill and hit your target every time — no pinched fingers, no tipped capsules. Each scoop fits one size (000, 00, 0 or 5), and the Combo Pack includes one of each.