Materials

PLA

Is made from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, PLA is biodegradable and offers a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based plastics. It prints smoothly with minimal warping and strong layer adhesion, making it ideal for desktop printers. PLA melts at relatively low temperatures, which simplifies the printing process and reduces the risk of errors. While it’s not suited for high-stress or heat-intensive applications, it is best for creating prototypes, toys, decorative items, and educational models. It has a wide availability in vibrant colors and specialty finishes, including translucent and glow-in-the-dark options. Though not the strongest filament, PLA remains a reliable, affordable choice for everyday prints that prioritize visual appeal and ease of fabrication over durability or thermal resistance.

ABS

It’s known for its toughness, heat resistance, and ability to handle wear and impact. This makes it ideal for functional parts like tools, enclosures, and automotive components. ABS prints best with a heated bed and enclosed printer to prevent warping since it shrinks as it cools. While it’s less eco-friendly than PLA and gives off fumes during printing, it offers a smooth finish and can be sanded or polished for a professional look. ABS is also compatible with acetone vapor smoothing, which gives parts a glossy surface. Because of its strength and flexibility, ABS is popular in engineering, prototyping, and manufacturing. With the right setup and ventilation, it’s a reliable choice for high-performance 3D prints that need to last.

PETG

It combines the best features of PLA and ABS, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced users. PETG is more durable than PLA and less brittle, while being easier to print than ABS. It resists moisture, chemicals, and UV light, which makes it ideal for outdoor parts, mechanical components, and enclosures. PETG prints with low warping and very good layer adhesion, producing strong objects. It’s also food-safe in some cases, depending on the filiment supplier. Since PETG sticks well to the print bed(sometimes too well) it offers reliable performance for functional prints. Whether you're making tools, brackets, or protective cases, PETG is a versatile material that balances toughness and printability.