So this just started out as a post about where to buy filament, but I think it is going to become a post about the most common types of filament and where you can buy them.

There are so many different types and brands of filament as well as so many different places to get filament. So far we have bought all of ours from Amazon. Black Friday sales save you a couple of dollars as does buying in bulk. I have been getting the Elegoo brand as that's what Uncle Steven has recommended.

We have about 10 rolls of Elegoo filament that we have printed polar bears with. It prints well with no defects as far as we can tell.

PLA

The type of filament that you will likely use for most projects is polylactic acid or PLA. PLA is probably the most widely used and the most versatile 3D printing filament. It is easy to use and doesn't put off the strong odors some of the other types of filament do. We use Elegoo PLA filament. It is reasonably priced and works well.

You can get it from Amazon with free shipping for Prime users or you can get it from Elegoo.

PETG

The next type of filament we will discuss is Polyethylene terephthalate glycol or PETG. PETG is kind of a middle ground between PLA and ABS. It is more flexible and durable than PLA and easier to ues than ABS. PETG absorbs moisture easier than PLA, so make sure to keep it in a cool, dry place. It is best to keep it in air-tight containers or vacuum bags.

You can get it from Amazon with free shipping for Prime users or you can get it from Elegoo.

ABS

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or ABS, is stronger and more durable than PLA and can withstand higher temperatures, but it is more difficult to work with. ABS is prone to warping without a hot print bed and adhesive. It is not food safe and gives off potentially hazardous fumes.

You can get it from Amazon with free shipping for Prime users.

ASA

Acrylonitrile styrene acrylate or ASA is strong, rigid and relatively easy to print with. It is extremely resistant to chemical exposure and heat.

You can get it from Amazon with free shipping for Prime users or you can get it from Elegoo.