What is 3D Printing?

Everything you need to know to start your maker journey

What is FDM?

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) is the most popular type of 3D printing. A printer melts plastic filament and deposits it layer by layer to build a solid object from the ground up.

How It Works

You download or design a 3D model, slice it into layers with free software, and send it to your printer. The printer then builds your object one thin layer at a time — like stacking pancakes.

What You Can Make

Phone stands, replacement parts, toys, figurines, home décor, tools, cosplay props — if you can imagine it, you can print it. The possibilities grow as you learn.

Things People 3D Print

Decorative Vase
Decorative Vase
Phone Stand
Phone Stand
Mechanical Parts
Mechanical Parts
Figurines & Toys
Figurines & Toys

Know Your Materials

Different filaments have different strengths. Here's what beginners need to know.

PLA / PLA+

Beginner
  • Easiest filament to print — great for learning
  • Low warping, no heated enclosure needed
  • Biodegradable and low-odor
  • Perfect for decorative prints and prototypes

Best for: Your first prints, décor, figurines, prototypes

PETG

Beginner
  • Stronger and more flexible than PLA
  • Good heat and chemical resistance
  • Slightly stringy but easy to learn
  • Safe for outdoor use

Best for: Functional parts, outdoor items, mechanical components

ABS

Intermediate
  • Very strong and heat-resistant
  • Needs enclosed printer and good ventilation
  • Prone to warping — not beginner-friendly
  • Industry standard for durable parts

Best for: Engineering parts, automotive, heat-exposed items

TPU (Flexible)

Intermediate
  • Rubber-like and flexible material
  • Great impact resistance and durability
  • Prints slower, needs direct-drive extruder
  • Fun to experiment with

Best for: Phone cases, gaskets, wheels, wearables

Silk / Matte PLA

Beginner
  • Special finish variants of PLA
  • Silk: shiny, metallic-looking surface
  • Matte: smooth, non-reflective finish
  • Same easy printing as regular PLA

Best for: Decorative objects, gifts, display pieces

PA-CF (Nylon Carbon Fiber)

Advanced
  • Carbon fiber reinforced nylon — extremely strong
  • Excellent stiffness-to-weight ratio
  • Requires hardened nozzle and enclosed printer
  • High temp printing, not for beginners

Best for: Structural parts, drone frames, engineering components

Find Your Perfect Printer

Answer 4 quick questions and we'll recommend the best printer + filament combo for you.

Now that you have found your printer, let us pick the right filament.

Which Filament Should You Use?

Answer 4 quick questions and we will recommend the best filament for your needs.