3D Printing

Materials

Filaments and their properties. What to use and when.

PLA

Easy

The most common 3D printing filament. Made from renewable resources like corn starch. Easy to print, low warping, and available in a huge variety of colors.

Properties

Low temp (190–220°C)No heated bed requiredBiodegradableLow odor

Best For

Prototypes, decorative prints, low-stress parts

PETG

Easy

A strong, flexible filament with good chemical and heat resistance. Bridges the gap between the ease of PLA and the durability of ABS. My go-to for functional parts.

Properties

Mid temp (220–250°C)Heated bed recommendedUV resistantFood safe (varies)

Best For

Outdoor prints, functional parts, garden accessories

ABS

Moderate

A durable, impact-resistant filament used in automotive and consumer products. Requires an enclosure due to warping and fumes, but produces strong, heat-resistant parts.

Properties

High temp (220–260°C)Heated bed requiredEnclosure recommendedAcetone smoothable

Best For

Mechanical parts, heat-resistant components, post-processing

TPU

Moderate

A flexible, rubber-like filament. Great for phone cases, gaskets, and anything that needs to bend or absorb impact. Requires slower print speeds and a direct-drive extruder.

Properties

Mid temp (210–230°C)Shore hardness 95AExcellent layer adhesionSlow print speed

Best For

Flexible parts, phone cases, vibration dampeners

Nylon

Advanced

Extremely strong and wear-resistant. Ideal for gears, hinges, and high-stress mechanical parts. Hygroscopic — must be stored dry and dried before printing.

Properties

High temp (240–270°C)HygroscopicExcellent wear resistanceEnclosure recommended

Best For

Gears, hinges, high-stress mechanical parts

ASA

Moderate

Similar to ABS but with superior UV resistance. The best choice for outdoor prints that need to hold up in direct sunlight without yellowing or becoming brittle.

Properties

High temp (235–255°C)UV stableEnclosure recommendedLow odor vs ABS

Best For

Outdoor enclosures, garden fixtures, automotive