Can You 3D Print With Wood?

Can You 3D Print With Wood?

How wood-fill PLA works

Wood-fill PLA is standard PLA blended with finely ground wood (sawdust, often pine or bamboo). The PLA carries the wood through the extruder and nozzle; the wood gives the printed surface its grain-like appearance and texture.

Print settings

  • Nozzle: 0.4 mm minimum, 0.6 mm preferred
  • Temperature: 200 to 220 C
  • Speed: 30 to 50 mm/s (slower than standard PLA)
  • Hardened nozzle: recommended for daily use (slightly abrasive)

Finishing

  • Sand 120 to 240 grit
  • Stain with wood stain or oil
  • Seal with polyurethane or wax
  • Burnish with steel wool for grain effect

Best uses for wood-fill PLA

  • Decorative pieces (vases, frames, ornaments)
  • Architectural model timber elements
  • Small furniture and props
  • Anything that looks better as wood than plastic

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Composite PLA. Related: Wood, marble and metal composite PLA.

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