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What Materials Are Used in 3D Printing? Complete Guide

The object is created by adding material layer by layer until it is complete. However, you can use various materials to create something with 3D printing.

Written by:
Ben
Last updated:
11/11/2023

3D printing is an additive manufacturing process that creates a three-dimensional object from a digital file. The object is created by adding material layer by layer until it is complete. However, you can use various materials to create something with 3D printing. 

The materials used in 3D printing include thermoplastics, metals, and composites, each with properties that make them suitable for various applications. For example, thermoplastics are ideal for printing lightweight objects, while metals are best for printing solid and heat-resistant items.

This guide will describe the most common materials used in 3D printing, their features, pros, and cons. I’ll also provide tips for choosing the best material for your project to get the best results possible. If that’s the information you’re looking for, stay tuned!

Types of Materials Used in 3D Printing

3D printing is a versatile technology used to create objects from various materials. The most common 3D printing materials have unique properties that make them well-suited for different applications.

Here’s a detailed overview of the most popular materials used in 3D printing:

PLA

Recommended applications: Prototyping, low-stress applications, models

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a biodegradable plastic made from corn starch or sugar cane. It’s the most popular 3D printing material due to its low cost and ease of use. 

PLA is available in many colors, including transparent, metallic, and fluorescent. It’s a good choice for applications where aesthetics are essential, but it’s not as strong or durable as other materials.

The material can be printed at high resolutions, making it ideal for intricate designs. However, because it’s not as durable as some other materials, it’s not well suited for applications where the object will be subject to high stress or wear and tear. 

Overall, PLA is a versatile material well-suited for various applications.

Pros of PLA

  • Low cost: PLA is popular because it tends to be much cheaper than other types of 3D printer filaments. That’s because it consists of renewable resources, like cornstarch.
  • Eco-friendly: Since PLA features natural materials, it’s biodegradable and doesn’t pollute the environment like petroleum-based plastics. Some companies are even using PLA to make compostable coffee cups.
  • Easy to print with: PLA is one of the most simple materials to print with because it doesn’t require a heated bed, and you can print it at lower temperatures than other materials. It’s also less likely to warp during the printing process.

Try this SUNLU PLA 3D Printer Filament from Amazon.com if you need quality filament. It’s a premium-quality material with impressive perks, such as clog-free feeding, high dimensional accuracy, and compatibility with all 1.75mm FDM 3D printers. Because of that, it’s an excellent choice for both hobbyists and professionals.

Cons of PLA

  • Brittleness: One downside to PLA is that it’s not as strong or durable as other materials, like ABS. It’s also prone to breaking or shattering if it’s dropped.
  • Low-temperature resistance: PLA is also not well-suited for applications that come in contact with high temperatures, like in a dishwasher.

ABS

Recommended applications: Functional prototypes, products that will be subject to high stress or wear and tear

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a petroleum-based thermoplastic that is popular for its strength and durability. It’s a common material in car parts, appliances, and toys.

ABS is available in many colors, including clear. It can be printed at high resolutions, making it ideal for intricate designs. However, because it consists of petroleum-based materials, it is not as eco-friendly as PLA. 

ABS is a good choice for applications where strength and durability are essential, but it is not as eco-friendly as other materials.

Pros of ABS

  • Strong and durable: One of the reasons ABS is so popular is because it’s solid and durable. It’s resistant to impact and can withstand high temperatures.
  • Easy to print with: ABS is also relatively easy to print, making it a good choice for people new to 3D printing.
  • Available in many colors: You can find ABS filaments in various colors, including clear, white, black, and red.

Cons of ABS

  • Not so eco-friendly: One downside of ABS is that it’s petroleum-based, making it less eco-friendly than other materials, such as PLA.
  • Toxic emissions: Scientific evidence points out that ABS emits toxins when heated, so it’s critical to print in a well-ventilated area.
  • Warps when exposed to cool air. ABS requires a stable temperature to prevent warping and other print issues, so it is critical to use a print enclosure when printing with this filament. 

Nylon

Recommended applications: Functional prototypes, products that need to be strong and flexible 

Nylon is a synthetic polymer first developed in the 1930s. It’s known for being strong and durable, making it a popular choice for 3D printing.

This material can be printed at high temperatures, making it ideal for applications where strength and flexibility are essential.

However, nylon is not as easy to print as other materials and often requires a heated build chamber. It’s also susceptible to moisture, so you must store it in a dry place. Despite these challenges, you can use this versatile material for various applications.

Pros of Nylon

  • Strong and durable: One of the reasons nylon is so popular is because it’s solid and durable. It’s resistant to impact and can withstand high temperatures.
  • Flexible: Nylon is also pliable, making it ideal for applications where flexibility is crucial.
  • Available in many colors: You can find nylon filaments in many hues, from clear to sparkly rainbow colors.

Cons of Nylon

  • Not biodegradable: One downside of nylon is that it’s not biodegradable, so it’s not the most environmentally friendly option.
  • It can be difficult to print with: Another downside of nylon is that it can be challenging to print. It tends to warp and is prone to stringing when the temperature is unstable in your print area. So, it is critical to use a printer enclosure when using nylon. 

Polycarbonate

Recommended applications: Functional prototypes, products that need to be strong and durable

Polycarbonate is a durable thermoplastic often used in applications where impact resistance is essential. It can be printed at high temperatures and is available in transparent and opaque varieties.

Polycarbonate is one of the most popular materials in 3D printing thanks to its durability. Notably, it’s ideal for applications where strength and durability are critical, such as medical devices or protective gear. Polycarbonate is also suitable for creating transparent, translucent, or opaque parts.

When 3D printed with the correct settings, polycarbonate parts can have a smooth finish with little to no visible layer lines.

Pros of Polycarbonate

  • Strong and durable: Polycarbonate is one of the most durable thermoplastics in 3D printing. It’s impact-resistant and can withstand high temperatures.
  • Suitable for prototypes: Polycarbonate is an excellent material for prototyping because it closely resembles many production-grade plastics.
  • Smooth finish: Polycarbonate has a very smooth finish, making it ideal for parts that need to be polished or painted.

Cons of Polycarbonate

  • Expensive: Polycarbonate is one of the more expensive 3D printing materials.
  • Difficult to print with: Printing with polycarbonate can be challenging because it tends to warp.
  • Susceptible to moisture: Polycarbonate is vulnerable to water, so you must store it in a dry environment.
  • High print temperatures: Polycarbonate has a high print temperature, so it requires a heated build platform.

PETG

Recommended applications: Functional prototypes, medical devices, food-safe containers

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-Modified) is a modified version of PET (polyethylene terephthalate), a common type of plastic. PETG is solid and durable, making it a popular choice for 3D printing. 

multiple color filaments

PETG is easy to print with and doesn’t require a heated bed. It’s also less likely to warp than ABS and has good chemical resistance. This material is common for 3D printing food-safe containers, medical devices, and prototypes. 

PETG offers the best of both worlds regarding strength and flexibility. That makes it an excellent choice for many applications requiring impact resistance or flexibility.

Pros of PETG

  • Strong and durable: With good layer adhesion, PETG filaments are strong and resist impact well. That makes it a good choice for functional parts that must withstand wear and tear.
  • Chemically resistant: PETG is more resistant to chemicals than ABS. It can withstand weak acids and bases, as well as petroleum products. Because of that, you can use it in settings where it may come into contact with cleaning agents or other chemicals.
  • No odor: Unlike ABS filaments, PETG filaments don’t give off an unpleasant smell when printed.
  • Easy to print: PETG filaments are more straightforward to print than ABS filaments. They don’t require a heated bed, and you can print them at lower temperatures. That makes them a good choice for beginners just starting with 3D printing.

Cons of PETG

  • More expensive: PETG filaments are usually pricier than standard 3D printing materials, such as PLA and ABS.
  • Less forgiving: Unlike PLA, PETG is not as forgiving if your printer isn’t perfectly calibrated. You may need to tune your printer settings to get good results. Otherwise, you may end up with too brittle or warped parts.

Metal Filaments

Recommended applications: functional parts, aesthetic parts, and projects that require high temperatures.

Metal filaments are a type of 3D printing material that contains metal powder or metal shards. These filaments include various metals, including aluminum, brass, and bronze.

Metal filaments are typically more expensive than other types of 3D printing materials. They’re also more challenging to print because they require a higher print temperature.

Nonetheless, these filaments are so strong that you can use them to create functional parts that need to withstand high temperatures or heavy use. You can use them to make aesthetic parts, like jewelry or sculptures.

Pros of Metal Filaments

  • Strong and durable: Metal filaments are strong and durable, making them a good choice for parts that must withstand a lot of wear and tear.
  • Heat resistant: Metal filaments are heat resistant, so you can use them in applications where parts must withstand high temperatures.
  • Aesthetic: Metal filaments have a shiny, metallic finish that can give your prints a professional look.

Cons of Metal Filaments

  • Expensive: Metal filaments are more costly than other types of 3D printing filaments.
  • Difficult to print with: Metal filaments are challenging to print with and often require special printers and settings to get good results.
  • Can clog printers: Metal filaments are prone to clogging printers because of the metal powder or shards.

TPU

Recommended applications: functional parts, projects that require durability, flexibility, and heat resistance

TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane) is a type of elastomer or elastic polymer. It’s a soft, rubbery material often used in 3D printing. TPU filaments are solid and flexible, making them a good choice for applications that require those properties.

TPU filaments are chemically resistant and can withstand high and low temperatures. That makes them a good choice for parts that need to be durable and heat-resistant.

If you need a durable, flexible, and heat-resistant material, TPU may be the right choice for your project.

clear 3d printed tpu filament object

Pros of TPU

  • Strong and durable: TPU is a solid and durable material, making it ideal for 3D printing products that need to withstand a lot of wear and tear.
  • TPU is flexible: TPU is also a flexible material, which means you can use it to create 3D printed products that need to bend or stretch.
  • TPU has a low density: TPU is a low-density material, which means that it is lightweight and easy to manipulate.
  • TPU is available in various colors: TPU is available in a wide range of colors, making it versatile.
  • Chemically resistant: TPU is resistant to many chemicals, so you can use it to create products you plan to expose to harsh chemicals.

Cons of TPU

  • Susceptible to moisture: TPU is vulnerable to water, so keeping it dry is essential. Otherwise, it may become brittle and break.
  • Stringing and clogging: TPU filaments are prone to stringing and clogging nozzles, so you may need to experiment with your printer settings to get good results.
  • Printed at low temperatures: You must print TPU at low temperatures, so it may not be compatible with all printers.
  • Difficult to post-process: TPU is difficult to sand and paint, so you may need to invest in special post-processing equipment if you want to add those finishing touches to your prints.

Wood Filaments

Recommended applications: decorative parts, projects that require the look of wood or eco-friendly materials

Wood filaments are made from wood fibers and have a wood-like appearance. These filaments are usually made from a mix of PLA and wood fibers and are an excellent choice for applications where you need the look of wood without the weight.

Besides, wood filaments are easy to print with and don’t require special printers or settings. Still, these filaments are biodegradable, so they’re a sustainable choice for 3D printing.

Pros of Wood Filaments

  • Lightweight: Wood filaments are very lightweight, making them easy to work with.
  • Easy to print: Wood filaments are easy to print with and don’t require special printers or settings. However, ensure the temperature is not too high to avoid charring the wood fibers.
  • Biodegradable: Wood filaments are biodegradable, making them more environmentally friendly than other filament materials.
  • Aesthetic: Wood filaments have a natural, wood-like appearance that can give your prints a unique look.

Cons of Wood Filaments

  • Susceptible to moisture: Wood filaments are sensitive to humidity, so you must store them in a dry environment.
  • May clog printers: Wood filaments may clog printers if they are not properly dried and stored.
  • May cause allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to wood dust, so it is vital to wear a mask when working with these filaments.
  • Expensive: Wood filaments are pricier than other filament materials.

Carbon Fiber Filaments

Recommended applications: functional parts, projects that require solid and lightweight materials

Carbon fiber filaments combine carbon fibers with a binding material, such as PLA. That results in a filament with the appearance of carbon fiber but with the added benefits of being easier to print with and requiring a lower printing temperature.

Carbon fiber filaments are solid and lightweight, making them ideal for applications where these properties are essential. However, they can be challenging to print with and often require a higher temperature than other filaments. 

Because of that, it’s essential to consult your printer’s instructions before attempting to print with carbon fiber filament. 

However, with proper care and attention, you can produce stunning prints that take advantage of the unique properties of this fascinating material.

Pros of Carbon Fiber Filaments

  • Solid and durable: Carbon fiber is five times stronger than steel, making it the ideal material for printing functional parts and prototypes that need to withstand high stress or heavy wear and tear.
  • Aesthetically pleasing: Carbon fiber has a sleek, professional look that can give your 3D prints a high-end appearance.
  • Flexible: Though carbon fiber is strong, it is also pliable, making it ideal for printing parts that need to be bendable or flexible.
  • High-temperature resistance: According to NASA, carbon fiber can withstand temperatures up to 300 degrees Celsius (572 degrees Fahrenheit). Because of that, it’s suitable for use in high-temperature environments.
  • Lightweight: Carbon fiber is also much lighter than steel, making it ideal for printing parts that need to be lightweight but strong, such as drone frames.

Cons of Carbon Fiber Filaments

  • More expensive: Carbon fiber is more costly than other filaments, such as PLA or ABS.
  • Require higher temperatures: Carbon fiber filaments often require higher temperatures to print correctly, damaging some 3D printers.
  • Difficult to print with: Carbon fiber filaments can be challenging to print with because of their high printing temperature and the fact that they often require unique settings or a printer with modified hardware.
  • Can cause allergic reactions: The CDC warns that exposure to carbon fiber dust can cause allergic reactions in some people. Therefore, it is vital to wear a dust mask and gloves when printing with carbon fiber filaments.

PVA

Recommended applications: support material for complex prints and environmental conscience projects

PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) is a water-soluble filament that you can use as a support material for complex prints. It dissolves in water, making removing supports from your objects easy.

That means you can print your model with supports made of PVA and then dissolve those supports away in water after the print is complete.

PVA is also biodegradable, making it a more environmentally-friendly option than other filament materials.

Pros of PVA Filaments

  • Water-soluble: PVA is soluble in water, making removing supports from your print easy.
  • Biodegradable: PVA is biodegradable, making it a more environmentally friendly option than some other filament materials.
  • No need for post-processing: Because PVA is water-soluble, there is no need for post-processing, such as sanding or chemical treatments.

Cons of PVA Filaments

  • Limited uses: PVA is only useful as a support material and cannot be used to print the main body of a model.
  • Expensive: PVA filaments are often more costly than other filament materials.
  • Requires careful storage: PVA filaments are hygroscopic. That means that they absorb water from the air. Therefore, they must be stored in an airtight container with a desiccant to prevent them from absorbing moisture and becoming unusable.
  • Doesn’t work with all other filaments: PVA won’t stick to ABS and many other high-temp thermoplastics. 

HIPS

Recommended applications: support material, functional parts, prototypes.

HIPS (high-impact polystyrene) is a filament material often used as a support material because it dissolves in d-limonene, a citrus-based solvent. That means you can easily remove HIPS supports from your print by placing them in a bath of d-limonene.

HIPS is also a relatively solid and rigid material, making it suitable for printing functional parts and prototypes.

Pros of HIPS Filaments

  • Cheaper than PVA: HIPS filaments are often more inexpensive than PVA filaments, making them a more budget-friendly option.
  • Strong and rigid: HIPS filaments are firm and inflexible, making them ideal for larger or more complex prints.
  • Durable: HIPS filaments are durable and can withstand higher temperatures and impact without warping or breaking.
  • Can be used with ABS: You can use HIPS as a support material for ABS prints. That means you can use HIPS to print large or complex ABS parts that would otherwise be difficult to print.

Cons of HIPS Filaments

  • Toxic fumes: HIPS filaments include styrene, a poisonous substance. Therefore, wearing a dust mask and gloves is crucial when printing with HIPS filaments.
  • Warping and stringing: HIPS filaments are susceptible to warping and stringing, especially at higher temperatures. That means you may need to adjust your printer’s settings or use a heated bed to prevent these issues.
  • Odor: HIPS filaments have a strong, unpleasant smell when printing. Therefore, it is essential to print in a well-ventilated area.

Polypropylene

Recommended applications: functional parts, prototypes, chemical-resistant prints

Polypropylene is a lightweight and semi-rigid filament material that you can use for various applications. It’s fatigue-resistant, which means it can withstand repeated stress and impact without breaking.

Polypropylene is also chemically resistant, making it a good choice for prints exposed to harsh chemicals or solvents.

Pros of Polypropylene Filaments

  • Lightweight: Polypropylene filaments are lightweight, making them ideal for printing larger objects.
  • Durable: Polypropylene filaments are durable and long-lasting.
  • Chemically resistant: Polypropylene is resistant to most acids, bases, and organic solvents.
  • Smooth finish: Polypropylene filaments produce prints with a smooth finish, making them ideal for cosplay props and other objects you plan to paint.
  • Heat-resistant: You can heat polypropylene at high temperatures without it deforming.

Cons of Polypropylene Filaments

  • Not biodegradable: Polypropylene is not biodegradable, meaning it will not break down in the environment.
  • Heavy warping: Polypropylene is prone to warping, meaning your prints may not come out as intended.
  • Complex to print: Polypropylene filaments can be challenging to print due to their high melting point and tendency to warp.
  • Low strength: Polypropylene filaments are not as strong as other filament materials.
  • Doesn’t adhere to surfaces: Polypropylene doesn’t adhere well to surfaces, meaning your prints may not stick to the build plate. That may cause your models to warp or come out poorly.
  • Expensive: Polypropylene filaments are generally more costly than other filament materials.

How To Choose the Right Material for Your Project

Whether starting from scratch or looking to revamp an old project, choosing the suitable material for your 3D printing project can be daunting. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which type of filament will produce the desired results.

However, following these guidelines can help narrow your options and guide you to the best material for your project.

Decide on the Purpose of Your Project

Are you looking to create a functional prototype? Or are you more interested in creating an art piece? The purpose of your project will help you determine which type of filament is right for you.

For example, if you’re looking to create a functional prototype, you’ll want to choose a strong and durable material. On the other hand, if you’re more interested in creating an art piece, you might want to choose a material that is more aesthetically pleasing.

In a nutshell, here are a few materials that are well-suited for different types of projects:

  • Prototypes: PLA, ABS, nylon.
  • Art pieces: Polycarbonate, PETG, metal filaments, wood filaments.
  • Functional parts: TPU, nylon, carbon fiber filaments.

Determine the Size and Complexity of Your Project

The size and complexity of your project will also play a role in determining which type of filament is right for you. If you’re looking to create a large and complex project, you’ll want to choose a strong and durable material that doesn’t weigh too much.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to create a smaller and more straightforward project, you might get away with using less durable materials. However, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and choose a more substantial material just in case.

In general, here are a few materials that are well-suited for different sizes and levels of complexity:

  • Large and complex projects: Polycarbonate, PETG, metal filaments, carbon fiber filaments
  • Smaller and simpler projects: PLA, ABS, wood filaments

Consider Your Budget and Material Availability

Another critical factor to consider is your budget. Some materials, such as carbon fiber filaments, can be pretty expensive. Therefore, it’s essential to consider your budget before making a decision.

In addition, you’ll also want to consider the availability of the material. Some materials, such as metal filaments, can be challenging to find. Therefore, ensuring that you choose a readily-available material is essential.

Consider Post-Processing Options

When deciding which material to use in 3D printing, it’s crucial to consider post-processing options. Some materials, such as PLA and ABS, are easy to paint and sand. However, other materials, such as polycarbonate and PETG, are more challenging to post-process. 

Therefore, you must consider what you want your final project to look like and what level of difficulty you’re willing to endure to achieve the desired results. 

For example, if you want to paint your project, using PLA would be your best bet, as it’s known for being smooth and easy to paint over. 

On the other hand, if you don’t mind putting in a little extra work, then polycarbonate might be a good option for you as it gives a high-quality finish. 

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what you feel comfortable using. So take your time considering all your options before making a final decision.

Check Compatibility With Your 3D Printer

Not all materials are compatible with all 3D printers. Some materials, such as ABS and nylon, require a printer that has been modified with a heated bed and enclosed build chamber.

Other materials, such as polycarbonate and PETG, can be challenging to print with and often require an all-metal hot end. Therefore, ensuring that the material you choose is compatible with your 3D printer is essential.

If you’re unsure which material is compatible with your printer, it’s always a good idea to consult your printer’s manufacturer or an expert.

Incompatible materials can cause problems, such as clogged nozzles and ruined prints. Therefore, it’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to compatibility.

Consider the Strength and Durability of the Material

When choosing a material for 3D printing, it’s critical to consider the strength and durability of the material. Some materials, such as PLA and ABS, are solid and durable. However, other materials, like metal and polycarbonate, are even more durable.

Therefore, it’s vital to consider the strength and durability of the material before making a final decision.

Pro Tip: If you’re not sure which material is suitable for your project, consult with an expert. They will help you choose the best material based on your project’s strength and durability requirements.

Consider the Temperature Tolerance of the Material

When choosing a material for 3D printing, it’s essential to consider the temperature tolerance of the material. Some materials, such as PLA and ABS, have a lower temperature tolerance and can warp at higher temperatures.

Other materials, such as polycarbonate and PETGs, have a higher temperature tolerance and can withstand higher temperatures. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the temperature tolerance of the material before making a final decision.

That said, here’s a video that may come in handy if you need more tips for choosing the best 3D printing filament:

How To Find the Best Deals on 3D Printing Materials

Now that you know what materials you can use in 3D printing and the tips for choosing the best material, it’s time to learn how to find the best deals on 3D printing materials. After all, 3D printing can get expensive, so it’s essential to know how to save money when purchasing materials.

Here are a few tips for finding the best deals on 3D printing materials:

Compare Prices To Determine the Best Deal

The best way to find the best deals on 3D printing materials is to compare prices. There are a variety of online retailers that sell 3D printing materials, so it’s essential to take the time to compare prices before making a purchase.

In addition, it’s also a good idea to sign up for newsletters and follow your favorite retailers on social media. That way, you’ll be the first to know about any sales or discounts they offer.

Pro Tip: When comparing prices, make sure to take into account shipping and handling costs. These costs can add up, so it’s important to factor them into the overall price of the materials.

Look for Bundles and Bulk Discounts

Another great way to save money on 3D printing is to look for bundles and bulk discounts. Many retailers offer discounts when you purchase multiple items, so it’s always a good idea to check for these deals before making a purchase.

In addition, many retailers also offer loyalty programs. These programs allow you to earn points or discounts when purchasing. Therefore, signing up for these programs is always good if you regularly buy 3D printing materials from a particular retailer.

Pro Tip: Ensure you read the fine print when looking for bundles and bulk discounts. Some deals may only be available for a limited time or have certain restrictions. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure you understand the terms of the agreement before taking advantage of it.

Check for Coupons and Promo Codes

Another great way to save money on 3D printing materials is to check for coupons and promo codes. Many retailers offer these codes as a way to encourage customers to make a purchase.

Coupons and promo codes can be found online or in magazines and newspapers. In addition, many retailers also offer loyalty cards. You can use these cards to earn points or discounts when you make a purchase.

Shop During Sales and Clearance

Another great way to save money on 3D printing materials is to shop during sales and clearances. These sales typically happen during the holidays or at the end of a season.

During these sales, retailers offer discounts on various items, including 3D printing materials. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye out for these sales.

In addition, many retailers also offer clearance items. These items are typically overstock or discontinued items the retailer is trying to sell. Therefore, the retailer will often provide them at a deeply discounted price.

Join a Maker Space or 3D Printing Community

One final way to save money on 3D printing materials is to join a maker space or 3D printing community. These communities offer resources and advice for those new to 3D printing. Therefore, they’re a great place to learn about new deals and discounts.

In addition, many of these communities also offer tips and tricks for getting the best results from your 3D printer. Therefore, they’re an excellent resource for those new to 3D printing.

Here are a few maker spaces and 3D printing communities to check out:

  • Maker Faire: This website offers a directory of maker spaces worldwide.
  • 3D Hubs: This allows you to search for 3D printers in your area.
  • Thingiverse: This website is excellent for finding and sharing various 3D printing files and templates.
  • Shapeways: Offers multiple 3D printing services, including 3D printing on demand.
  • 3D Printing Forum: Forums from 3D printing manufacturers and public ones like Stack Exchange and Reddit are the best places to ask questions and learn about 3D printing.
  • Instructables: Offers a variety of 3D printing projects and tutorials suitable for beginners.
  • GrabCAD: This website is an excellent place to find 3D printing files.

Final Thoughts

There you have it! These are common materials used in 3D printing, each with unique benefits and drawbacks. Therefore, when identifying the best material for your project, consider your needs and the properties of each material.

Additionally, remember that the cost of 3D printing materials varies with the type of material, brand, and retailer. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices before making a purchase. Finally, check out some of the resources listed above for more information on 3D printing.

Written by:
Ben
Last updated:
11/11/2023

About Ben

I started 3D printing since 2013 and have learned a lot since then. Because of this I want to share my knowledge of what I have learned in the past years with the community. Currently I own 2 Bambulab X1 Carbon, Prusa SL1S and a Prusa MK3S+. Hope you learn something from my blog after my years of experience in 3D printing.