What is PLA?
PLA stands for Polylactic Acid. It's a plastic made from renewable resources like corn, sugarcane, or other plant-based materials.
Why PLA is Special
PLA is the most beginner-friendly 3D printing filament because:
- Easy to print: It sticks well and doesn't warp much
- Works on most printers: Almost every 3D printer can print PLA
- Sustainable: Made from plants, not oil
- Affordable: Usually the cheapest filament option
- Looks good: Prints are smooth and have good detail
- Comes in many colors: Almost any color you can imagine
What PLA is Good For
PLA is perfect for:
- Toys and figurines
- Decorative objects
- Models and miniatures
- Learning to 3D print
- Gifts and crafts
- Prototypes
Temperature
PLA needs to be heated to around 200-220°C to print. Most printers have this as the default.
If your printer seems to be struggling with PLA, it's often because the temperature is wrong. Try adjusting it slightly and see if it improves.
What PLA is NOT Good For
- Anything that needs to be really strong or flexible
- Objects that will be used outdoors in the sun (PLA breaks down over time)
- Anything that needs to hold hot liquids (PLA can warp at 60°C+)
- Parts that need to bend repeatedly
For those uses, look at PETG or ABS.
Pro Tips
- PLA is forgiving—if you mess up, it's cheaper to try again
- Keep PLA dry: it absorbs moisture from the air, which can affect printing
- PLA is compostable in industrial composters, but won't break down in your home compost
- It's the best filament to start with while you learn!
Our PLA
At Eco 3D Print, our PLA is sustainable and high-quality. You don't have to worry about the environmental impact—it's all good.
Just grab a spool and start printing!