Plastics, extras

This category covers 3D printing filaments, materials for 3D pens and accessories for home makers, schools and small workshops. Our range has over 50 products, including items from Creality, Anycubic, 3Doodler and Elegoo.

The product types differ, so check which device an item is made for before ordering.

How to choose filament and accessories for 3D printing

Material. PLA is the easiest place to start: it prints at a lower temperature, warps very little and usually does not need an enclosed chamber. Our range includes PLA and compostable plastic. Tougher or more flexible materials such as PETG, ABS or TPU generally need higher temperatures or more careful settings.

Compatibility. Most FDM printers use 1.75 mm filament, but it is worth confirming this in the manufacturer's specification. Also check that the printer's nozzle and heated bed can reach the temperature the material needs. Accessories such as nozzles or print plates are usually made for particular model series.

Melting point. Our range includes materials with a maximum melting point of 65 °C and of 190 °C. Lower-temperature materials are typically meant for pens used by children, while 190 °C is close to the lower end of normal PLA printing temperatures.

Purpose. For models, figurines and decorations PLA is usually enough, whereas parts that get warm or carry a load need a more resistant material. For a 3D pen, use the materials the manufacturer specifies, because a pen heats and feeds plastic differently from a printer.

Brands we carry

• Creality: known for the Ender series of FDM printers used by many home enthusiasts, and the brand with the most products in this category in our range.
• Anycubic: became well known for its Photon resin printers, and also makes FDM printers.
• 3Doodler: popularised the 3D pen, so its materials and accessories are for drawing in the air rather than for a conventional printer.
• Elegoo: known for the Mars series of resin printers and the Neptune series of FDM models.
• QIDI: makes enclosed printers with a heated chamber, designed with engineering materials in mind.
• SUNLU: focuses mainly on printing filament rather than on printers themselves.
• xTool: known for laser engraving and cutting machines, so its accessories are mostly meant for that kind of equipment.

Also in our range: Gembird.

Frequently asked questions about 3D printing filament

Which filament should a beginner choose?

A beginner should choose PLA. It prints at a lower temperature, warps very little and usually does not need an enclosed chamber. Our range includes PLA and compostable plastic.

What filament diameter does a 3D printer need?

Most home FDM printers use 1.75 mm filament, but the manufacturer states the exact size. Filament of the wrong diameter will not fit the extruder or will print unevenly, so check the printer's manual before buying.

What is the difference between PLA, PETG and ABS?

PLA is the easiest to print, but it softens under heat sooner than the other two. PETG is more resistant to impact and moisture. ABS copes better with heat, though it usually needs an enclosed chamber and good ventilation to print well.

Can printer filament be used in a 3D pen?

Not always. Pens and printers heat the material differently, and pen materials are sometimes supplied as strands in a different format. Check which materials and diameter the pen manufacturer specifies before you buy.