Before you can start using your 3D printer, you will need to buy some filament. You may receive a small sample roll of filament with your printer, but you will quickly run out of this.
If you have not yet purchased a 3D Printer, you can review our 3D printer guides below:
If you are new to 3D printing and are not familiar with different types of 3D print filaments, read our complete guide to 3D Print filaments. 3D Print Filaments: Everything You Need to Know in 5 Minutes
Are you ready? Great! Let’s dive in.
PLA
You will want to have an ample supply of PLA 3D print filament in your 3D printing workshop. And when I say workshop, it could be an office, basement, corner of your bedroom or an actual workshop. You are going to need to set aside a little space for your 3D printer, tools, accessories and some room to work.
You can use a variety of different types of filaments with most 3D printers but PLA is the most user friendly. If you are first starting out, consider buying a 2-pack or multi-pack with a variety of colors to save some money.
There are a number of quality brands of PLA filament you can choose from. Spools are frequently put on sale, so try not to spend more than $15-$20 on one of the following brands:
You can choose to spend more than $20 on a higher end brand such as Inland, but you likely won’t see a significant print improvement just by spending more money.
PLA+
If you want a little more strength than standard PLA, you can choose to buy a PLA+. Price should be similar to other PLA filaments but it could cost you a little more. PLA+ is still easier to print with than other 3D print filaments but it provides more stability than just using PLA. You will also see options for rapid filament in the PLA+ category. Rapid filament will allow you to print at faster speeds without losing quality on your finished build.
Recommended options for PLA+ 3D Print Filament:
ABS
ABS is a good fit when functionality is your biggest concern. It is a strong filament to use for creating objects that will be supportive or just durable. It also has a higher heat resistance than other filament materials. Details will typically not show up as well on ABS filament but you should use it when you need the extra strength. It also holds up well to UV light so is a great material to use for an object you plan on using outside.
Recommended options for ABS Print Filament:
PETG
PETG is a combination of PLA and ABS type of filaments. You can use PETG filaments to create food-safe containers, plates, cups and mugs.
Recommended options for PETG Print Filament:
TPU
When you need a little more flexibility in your build, you can turn to TPU filament. TPU is designed to absorb impact and allow your object to move. Texture is similar to rubber.
Recommended options for TPU Print Filament:
Specialty Filaments
If you want to want to take your build to the next level, you can also buy a variety of specialty filaments. It will cost you a little more money, but it will make the look of your finished build a lot better.
Clear Filament
To give off the appearance of glass or plastic, you can choose to print an object using SunLu’s clear filament. This will give you the ability to allow light to shine through and provide partial transparency. It can be used for functionality purposes or as an artistic design.
Dual Color Filament
Bring some elegance into your print with this dual color Mika3D print filament. Available in a 6-pack or you can buy individual colors. Make sure to pay attention to the temperature guidelines listed on the package to achieve the best quality build.
Gradient Chameleon Colored Filament
Here’s another option to bring a unique style to your next 3D print build. Explore a range of color gradient options from a company you can trust. Pick up a spool of this chameleon color style 3D print filament from Flashforge and watch your friends jaws drop.
Glow in the Dark Filament
To let your build really stand out, you can make it glow in the dark with this quality filament from SunLu. You will need to expose your print to light in order to allow it to glow. Multiple colors to choose from.
Rainbow Filament
Speaking of color, take a look at iSANMATE’s Rainbow Filament. if you really want to make someone stop and pay attention, this will make your print turn some heads.
Silk Filment
Using silk filament will give your 3D build some shine, however, it can be a little tricky to work with. If you are going to print with silk, you will need to run your 3D printer a little slower. You may also need to experiment with a higher temperature on your nozzle and your heated bed to obtain the right quality.
Wood Colored Filament
It looks like wood and is a fantastic effect if you need to bring some natural elements into your build. This filament by Creality is a combination of smooth appearance and toughness to create a truly unique build.
Rock Filament
This 3D print filament takes on the appearance of rock or stone. It’s a combination of PLA on the outside and PETG on the inside to create this style. The Stronghero 3D Rock Filament can be an effective filament to use for miniatures or creating buildings and statues.
So that will wrap it up for us with this section. There are a few more exotic filaments available but we will create a separate article to talk more in depth on that topic. We are also working on an article about tools you’ll want to consider buying with your 3D printer. Thanks for reading. Talk to you soon!
So What Should I Do Next?
Click on one of the steps below to learn more about 3D Printing.
- Step 1: Interest in 3D Printing
- Step 2: Buy Equipment
- Step 3: Print Other People’s Designs
- Step 4: Print Your Own Designs
- Step 5: Upgrade Printer
- Step 6: Sell Products
- Step 7: Quit 3D Printing
