PLA (polylactic acid) filament is amongst the oldest and still the most heavily used mediums in the 3D printing community, mainly due to its benefits as a versatile and environmentally friendly thermoplastic. Both organic and biodegradable, PLA is easily compounded with other ingredients to influence its final properties, for example flexibility and metallically. The uncolored form of Real PLA is a translucent off-white color and has a printing temperature between 195 - 205 degrees (depending on hot end characteristics). Darker colors of Real may require a few extra degrees of temperature due to the coloring process. The filament should extrude smoothly and appear slightly shiny. PLA is denser and tougher than ABS, but is more brittle and susceptible to cracking under high loads. It is also less resistant to the outdoor elements (UV light and water) than other common thermoplastics (see Nylon, ABS and PET-G).

PLA can print well on an unheated surface using Blue Painters or Kapton tape, and most 3D print stickers. For ease and convenience, we recommend using spray such as 3DLAC on a glass bed. A low bed temperature between 50 - 60 degrees further reduces the chance of warping and makes final print removal easier once the print surface has cooled.