Wood, Marble and Metal Composite PLA Explained
Wood-fill PLA
PLA with real wood particles (typically 20 to 40 percent). The print smells faintly of wood while printing, sands like wood, accepts stains and finishes. Layer line variation can mimic timber grain. Slightly more abrasive than standard PLA but a brass nozzle handles occasional use.
Marble-fill PLA
PLA with mineral filler that gives the print a stone-like speckled appearance and heavier feel. Sands smooth like a soft stone. Common for decorative pieces, planters and lithophanes.
Metal-fill PLA
PLA loaded with brass, copper, iron or steel powder. The print weighs 1.5 to 2 times what a standard PLA print weighs. Surface can be polished to a metallic finish, iron-fill is mildly magnetic, brass and copper can be patinated. Hardened nozzle strongly recommended; metal-fill chews through brass nozzles fast.
Print settings that apply to all composites
- 0.4 mm minimum nozzle, 0.6 mm recommended for chunky fills
- Hardened nozzle for metal-fill, optional for wood and marble
- Slightly hotter than standard PLA (210 to 225 C) for better flow
- Slower speeds (30 to 50 mm/s)
- Larger retract distance helps with composite stringing
Post-processing
- Wood-fill: 120 to 240 grit sand, then wood stain or oil
- Marble-fill: wet sand for a smooth stone finish
- Metal-fill: 600 grit, then steel wool, then metal polish for a real shine
- Brass and copper take a patina over time or with a vinegar-salt solution
Browse the range
Proto Infused PLA, Proto Metal PLA, Specialty PLA, All Protopasta.