Understanding Our Materials
Our materials are selected for how they print, look, and behave as objects. The right choice depends on the material’s characteristics and your project’s conditions—not on a blanket assumption about a particular intended use.
| Material | Appearance | Benefits | Limits to consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLA Basic | Usually smooth with visible layer lines | Reliable, versatile, and available in many colors | Can soften in higher heat; not intended for prolonged outdoor exposure without careful evaluation |
| PLA Matte | Low-sheen, softer-looking surface | Reduces glare and gives a refined display finish | Heat behavior and impact limits still matter |
| PLA Wood | Wood-inspired appearance; texture varies | Warm, natural-looking visual character | Decorative appearance is not solid wood; do not assume water, heat, or outdoor suitability |
| PETG Basic | Often smoother and slightly more glossy | Good toughness and flexibility compared with many PLA prints | Can scratch or show print artifacts; heat, chemicals, and UV exposure still require care |
| PETG Matte | Lower-sheen PETG appearance | Balances a muted look with PETG’s useful toughness | Not automatically suitable for every wet, heated, outdoor, or animal-related environment |
What we validate
We validate the material and design as a printed object: fit, finish, visible defects, and intended construction details. Print validation is not habitat-safety validation, toxicity testing, long-term immersion testing, or certification for a specific animal or environment.
Color selections are curated per material rather than guaranteed across every material. See Choosing the Right Material and return to the Knowledge Hub.
