Print your next designs with a smooth and shiny Silk PLA filament if you want a new experience. This filament is made for users who want a little extra in their prints, and with the many different colors and multicolor options available, we are sure you will be inspired to create a new masterpiece.
What Is Silk PLA?
At its core, Silk PLA is just like PLA filament, except it has been modified slightly with the addition of ingredients that make it more shiny and smooth, giving it a silk-like appearance. Geeetech filaments of this type provide a great alternative to other options and can make your prints much more exciting to look at and handle.
The Definition of Silk PLA
As mentioned above, Silk PLA is one of the 3D printer filament types that has been produced in order to provide users with a glossy print that has a beautiful sheen. It can be used for most types of 3D print materials and designs, and there are often many colors to choose from as well.
The Composition of Silk PLA
Overall the main building blocks of Silk PLA remain similar to PLA, keeping it biodegradable and environmentally friendly. Besides that, manufacturers typically add selected additives to make the filament shiny and silky smooth, as well as different colors. Silk PLA can even be pearlescent!
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Silk PLA?
Silk PLA looks way more shiny and smooth compared to the matte look of PLA. It is great for prints that are designed to impress. It is still easy to use in your own 3D printer, and the Geeetech PLA options available are also affordable.
It will however require proper print settings in order to produce good results, and depending on where you buy your Silk PLA, you might experience issues with strings in your prints.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Easy to use | Slightly more expensive |
| Biodegradable | Requires proper storage |
| Shiny finish | Requires around 20 °C more heat in nozzle |
| Multiple color options | Needs correct settings for optimal layer adhesion |
| No special 3D printer required | |
| Does not tangle |
Silk PLA vs PLA
We have already covered the main differences between the two types of filament. So let us look specifically at Geeetech filament in order to find more specific differences. The price of Silk PLA is around 40-50% higher compared to the normal Geeetech PLA filament, so it might be something to consider.
The PLA Silk strength vs PLA is roughly the same, so there should be no issues in terms of the durability of your prints. Moreover, you also get access to many different types of colors, as well as dual or tricolor filaments with multiple colors on the same strand of Silk PLA filament, making it possible to create truly unique prints with ease.
How to Print Silk PLA?
When you print with Silk PLA it is a good idea to choose a filament that has anti-warping properties, as this will improve the overall quality of your designs. Other features to look out for include filament that will deliver accurate results without bubbles.
Print Settings Guidelines
Below you will find some general print settings for Silk PLA. These are based on the Geeetech filament, and can be used to give you beautiful prints every time. You can experiment with the 3D print settings as well, in order to get even better results, but use these as a guideline.
| Recommended printing temperature | 200-230°C |
| Recommended hot bed temperature | 40-60°C |
| Print speed | 40 mm/s – 60 mm/s |
| Fan speed | 80% – 100% |
| Fan speed for the first 1-2 layers | 25% – 50% |
Does Silk PLA Need Different Settings Comparing with Other Filaments?
Typically you will need a slightly warmer hot bed temperature for Silk PLA compared to regular PLA filament. The nozzle/printing temperature will typically also be around 5 to 10% hotter. However, every manufacturer has different requirements, so check your specific product.
Applications of Silk PLA Filament
Many users have been designing exquisitely beautiful Christmas decorations with Silk PLA filament, as the colors and the shine fit perfectly into the holiday spirit. It is a great way to print your own ornaments for the Christmas tree, or even print larger objects designed to hang in your windows or be showcased outside during the relatively short period of celebrations.
( Source: Clara’s Little Artworks via thingiverse 4003686 )
Conclusion
At the end of the day, Silk PLA filament is a fantastic choice for vibrant designs since it will show a beautiful glossy shine that makes your designs look and feel spectacular. It is especially suited for decorative designs and can be a creative inspiration for your next project.
