this post was submitted on 04 Nov 2025
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Want some advice on which filaments to use (lemmy.world)
submitted 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) by idunnololz@lemmy.world to c/3dprinting@lemmy.world
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New to 3D printing (my printer didn't even arrive yet) but I have a few projects I want to start with and I am unsure of the correct or best materials to use for them.

So here are three things I want to print for sure:

  1. Adjustable leg for IKEA BROR. This BROR rack already has a ton of stuff on it, likely in the 20 - 30 KG range so it would need to be a material that can stand that weight. It's also a garage so the expected temperature range is something like 30 to -5C
  2. Some counter top containers to hold things. One of the things I want to hold are laundry detergents. These can be a bit heavy and some detergent can spill, not sure if this can react with the plastic. Indoor use only so the temp range is like 25 to 20C.
  3. Mount plate for a post cap light. I will be screwing these into the post and then the light will lock on to them. The post cap light itself is pretty light however it needs to be able to withstand the elements (snow, rain) and also animals like raccoons and squirrels that might try to pry them off. Temp. range is like 30C to -30C.

If anyone has any suggestions please let me know!

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[–] idunnololz@lemmy.world 1 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) (2 children)

After reading all of the comments and doing some research on the side it definitely looks like PETG is a great all rounder for functional prints. Guess I'm going to need a filament dryer.

PETG, ABS, ASA and TPU seem like the most common functional print materials, of course each has it's own strength. If I end up doing ABS/ASA one day I'm doing to have to figure out a good ventilation solution lol.

[–] Shadow@lemmy.ca 2 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

You don't need a dryer to start. I printed for many years and only recently bought a dryer. It definitely helps with older filament, but you don't need it to get started.

[–] elucubra@sopuli.xyz 2 points 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago)

I live in a dry climate, and thought drying PETG was unnecessary. After a lot of frustration, I made a (very good) redneck dryer, and my printing life became much better. PETG really likes water, and printing humid PETG is a source of major frustration.

Also, don't dry filaments in ovens, microwaves, or other food use things. A lot of idiots on YouTube recommend that, and it's obvious that you don't want to cook foods in ovens that have been coated in unknown VOCs.

[–] elucubra@sopuli.xyz 2 points 2 weeks ago

Get Rapid PETG. Regular PETG. I've printed a few rolls of regular PETG, and it can be a source of frustration. Same with PLA. Get a PLA +.