Five ways to get a better finish from silk PLA

Silk PLA is one of the easiest ways to make a print look good without any sanding or painting. It is also a little fussier than normal PLA. If your silk prints look dull, rough or stringy, try these.

1. Slow down

The shine comes from the way the filament flows and settles. Printing outer walls slower, around 30 to 50mm/s, gives a noticeably glossier surface.

2. Print a little hotter

Most silk PLA looks best near the top of its temperature range. Start at 215°C and go up in 5°C steps until the surface looks smooth.

3. Use more walls, less infill

Silk PLA has weaker layer bonding than normal PLA. Three or four walls make parts stronger and give the shine a more even look.

4. Keep it dry

Wet silk PLA loses its shine and strings badly. If a spool has been sitting out, dry it at 45 to 50°C for 4 to 6 hours.

5. Pick models that suit it

Silk works best on smooth, curved shapes where the light can catch it:

• Vases and planters
• Busts and figurines
• Ornaments and gifts

For settings and tips on every material we sell, have a look at our Filament Guide.