Coming soon to Stinkyink!
We’re excited to announce that we’ll soon be stocking our very own 3D printer filament.
3D Printing Materials
It’s best to decide which kind of filament is suited to you before purchasing your 3D printer. Printers have limitations such as the temperatures they can reach, or the features included. For this reason, you need to know which filament is right for you before making the commitment.
Why is rPLA a smart choice?
3D printing has transformed the way we create, prototype, and design. From hobbyists printing miniatures to businesses producing custom components, the possibilities are endless. Yet, with so many types of 3D printing material available, choosing the right filament for your printer can be overwhelming.
At Stinkyink, we’re here to help make that decision easy. We are soon launching our new stock of reliable, eco-friendly filaments like rPLA - a recycled PLA that delivers exceptional print quality while helping reduce waste. PLA is also considered to be the beginner friendly choice, so great if you are just starting out. Let’s compare the most common 3D printer filaments, look at their pros and cons, and discover why rPLA could be your best printing companion, or if another option would suit you better.
What Is PLA Filament Made From?
So, what is PLA filament made from? PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a thermoplastic derived from renewable resources such as corn starch or sugarcane. In simple terms, PLA is made from plants - making it a greener alternative to petroleum-based plastics.
One of PLA’s main attractions is that it’s safer and cleaner to print. It produces low odour and fewer emissions, making it ideal for home and educational environments. But an even more responsible choice is rPLA, which takes leftover or waste PLA and recycles it into new, high-quality filament - reducing plastic waste and giving materials a second life.
And is PLA filament biodegradable? Yes, under industrial composting conditions, PLA breaks down more easily than traditional plastics. While it won’t biodegrade on your desk, it’s still considered one of the most eco-friendly 3D printer materials available today.
What Is Better: PLA or ABS?
This is a very common question, but both have their pros and cons.
ABS filament is tough, durable, and heat-resistant - making it useful for functional or ‘moving’ parts that face stress or higher temperatures. It can also withstand being sanded, drilled, and has a much higher melting point than other common filaments. However, ABS can be tricky to print with. It requires a heated bed, emits unpleasant fumes, and tends to warp if not handled carefully.
PLA filament, on the other hand, is known for being far more user-friendly. It prints at lower temperatures, produces smooth finishes, and adheres well to most build plates. For everyday prints, prototypes, and decorative models, PLA is widely considered the best filament for 3D printing.
Now add sustainability into the mix, and rPLA stands out. It performs like premium PLA while being made from recycled materials, making it one of the most reliable PLA filaments for both quality and conscience.
Although, on the flip side, it isn’t as durable as ABS.
The Most Common and Popular 3D Printer Filaments
Before diving deeper into PLA, in short, these are the biggest pros of the most common printer filaments:
PLA (Polylactic Acid) - Easy to print, affordable, and biodegradable.
ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) - Strong and heat-resistant.
PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) - Durable and flexible.
TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) - Flexible and impact-resistant.
Nylon - Highly durable, suitable for functional parts.
Of these, PLA remains the most popular 3D printer filament. We think this is due to its ease of use, low cost, and eco-friendly properties.
PETG is coming in at second. It is more heat resistant than PLA, but it is prone to warping.
Understanding FDM PLA and Ideal Print Settings
Most consumer 3D printers use FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) technology, and FDM PLA is the go-to filament for this method.
The recommended PLA temperature is typically between 190°C and 220°C, depending on the brand, colour, and printer model. The best temperature for PLA printing ensures strong layer adhesion without stringing or warping.
High-quality options like rPLA are manufactured to tight tolerances, meaning you’ll experience smooth extrusion and minimal clogging even at standard PLA temperatures. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced maker, this makes rPLA one of the best 3D printing PLA filaments available.
Choosing the Best 3D Printer Filament Brand
When it comes to finding the best brand of 3D printer filament, you’ll want a product that offers reliability, consistent results, and value for money. The best 3D printer filament brand should give you a smooth print every time, without wasting material or time.
That’s why rPLA is an excellent choice. It delivers the high-quality 3D printer filament results you’d expect from leading brands, while helping to reduce environmental impact. It’s tested for uniform diameter, strength, and colour consistency - ensuring every print looks and performs just as you expect.
If you are looking for a quality PLA filament for 3D printing, rPLA ticks a lot of boxes.
Which 3D Printer Filament Is Best for Your Needs?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
For sustainability and easy use: choose rPLA
For durability and heat resistance: go with ABS or PETG
For flexibility: try TPU
For strength: use Nylon
Get the Best Deals on 3D Printer Filament at Stinkyink
At Stinkyink, we pride ourselves on offering the very best for your printer, and for every kind of creator. Our rPLA range is coming soon! So please come back to enjoy:
Premium-quality, recycled PLA
Smooth and consistent printing results
Excellent value and fast UK delivery
👉 print smarter, cleaner, and greener!
