My Journey into 3D Printing: From Zero to Making Stuff I Actually Use

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the beginner's best friend. It's easy to print, doesn't warp much, and comes in just about every color imaginable. The catch: it's not very heat-resistant (starts softening around 60°C / 140°F) and it doesn't love moisture or UV exposure. Perfect for indoor objects that won't face harsh conditions.

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is tougher and more heat-resistant than PLA, handling up to around 80°C / 175°F without deforming. It's also more flexible, which makes it ideal for things that take some stress or need a bit of grip. The downside: it's slightly trickier to print and more prone to stringing. Worth it for functional parts though.