Standard PLA is great for functionality, but when aesthetics is the goal, filaments with special finishes turn a 3D print into an object that looks industrially produced. Silk, glitter, galaxy, wood-fill, metal-fill: each finish has its own characteristics and printing tricks.
Silk filaments (silk effect)
Silk filaments produce a shiny, silky surface with reflections that change with the viewing angle. The effect is achieved with additives that change the flow of the material during solidification. Available in many colours: gold, silver, copper, red, blue, green, bicolour and rainbow. Ideal for vases, lamps, decorations and design objects. Printing parameters are similar to standard PLA, but a slightly lower speed (40-50 mm/s) is recommended to maximise gloss.
Glitter and Galaxy Filaments
Glitter filaments contain reflective particles that create a shimmering effect on the surface of the print. Galaxy filaments combine glitter and dark colours for a starry sky effect. They print like standard PLA, but the particles are slightly abrasive: replace the brass nozzle more frequently, or use a hardened steel nozzle for extended use.
Glow-in-the-Dark (phosphorescent) filaments
They contain strontium aluminate pigments that charge with light and glow in the dark. Extremely fun for gadgets, signs, night decorations and educational projects. Caution: phosphorescent particles are very abrasive. Use only hardened steel nozzles. Increase the temperature by 5-10 °C compared to standard PLA.
Wood-Fill Filaments
They contain up to 30-40% recycled wood particles in a PLA matrix. The prints look, feel and even smell like wood. They can be sanded, varnished and treated like real wood. Varying the printing temperature (190-220 °C) produces different shades: darker at high temperatures, lighter at low temperatures. Use 0.5-0.6 mm nozzle to avoid clogging.
Metal-Filled Filaments
They contain metal powders (bronze, copper, steel) in a PLA matrix. Prints can be polished to achieve a realistic metallic appearance and even develop patina over time. Heavier than standard PLA. Mandatory hardened steel nozzle. Post-processing with fine sandpaper and polishing for the best metallic effect.
Summary table
|
Finish |
Effect |
Recommended nozzle |
Difficulty |
|
Silk |
Glossy and silky |
Brass OK |
Easy |
|
Glitter/Galaxy |
Scintillating |
Brass (heavy-duty steel) |
Easy |
|
Glow-in-the-Dark |
Phosphorescent |
Hardened steel |
Medium |
|
Wood-Fill |
Wood-look |
Steel, 0.5-0.6 mm |
Medium |
|
Metal-Fill |
Metallic appearance |
Hardened steel |
Medium-high |
Special filaments at DHM-online
At DHM-online you will find silk, glitter, galaxy, glow-in-the-dark, wood-fill and metal-fill filaments from Formfutura, AzureFilm and other manufacturers. Browse the Filaments section and filter by type of finish to explore all available options.
