Guides · Reviewed 25 September 2026

What material should I choose for an FDM 3D printed part?

For most parts, PLA+ is the right choice — it's strong, dimensionally accurate and has a clean finish, which is why it's our standard material for instant orders. Choose a different material only when your part specifically needs more flexibility, heat resistance or toughness; those are available through our custom print form.

The common FDM materials

• PLA and PLA+. The everyday choice for prototypes, display parts, enclosures and general functional parts. PLA+ is an upgraded PLA — stronger and less brittle than basic PLA, with an excellent surface finish. Not ideal for parts left in a hot car or in direct sustained heat.
• PETG. Tougher and more temperature- and moisture-resistant than PLA, with a bit of flex. Good for brackets, outdoor-ish parts and things that take some abuse.
• TPU (flexible). A rubber-like material for parts that need to bend, grip or absorb shock — gaskets, bumpers, straps and flexible mounts.
• Carbon-fibre filled (PLA-CF, PETG-CF). A base plastic reinforced with chopped carbon fibre for extra stiffness and a matte, technical finish — useful for rigid functional parts.
• ABS / ASA and nylon. Engineering materials you may see elsewhere for high-heat or outdoor use. They have specific handling requirements, so if your part genuinely needs one, get in touch and we'll advise on the best option rather than assume it's the right fit.

What Layer & Loop offers

See the full materials page for details.

Quick picker

• General part, prototype, display → PLA+.
• Needs toughness / mild heat / outdoors → PETG.
• Needs to flex or grip → TPU.
• Needs extra stiffness / technical finish → carbon-fibre filled.
• High heat or heavy engineering use → ask us first.

Related: Materials · 3D printing costs