So, you’ve got an idea for a 3D print project. Maybe you’ve drafted the design and even have a tentative sense of the pieces you need to use. But how can you choose the best materials without knowing all your options? That’s why we’re here to help! Here’s a list of some of the best 3D printing materials we offer to help you materialize your vision.

1. Unfilled Nylon 11 — The most appealing quality of this powerhouse material is its durability. Nylon 11 offers unbeatable resistance to breakage from long-term use and elongation. It can withstand temperatures of up to 390° Fahrenheit, as well as withstand extreme pressure and impact. This material comes in black, so it’s perfect for a sleek, modern design.
2. Unfilled Nylon 12 — This is our most generally applicable and affordable material, suitable for just about any design or prototype imaginable. Applicability and affordability aside, Nylon 12 offers outstanding strength and flexibility despite its lightweight nature, which makes it easy and cost-efficient to transport and ship. This material comes in white, making it suitable for any design color scheme. It’s also resistant to chemicals, has a melting point of 325° Fahrenheit, and can be tumbled, dyed, painted, glued, drilled, tapped, machined, and undergo any procedure your design requires. You can even use Nylon 12 for any non-alcoholic food and beverage products, as it is certified by the FDA.
3. Nylon 12 FR — For any design that requires fire retardant materials, turn to Nylon 12 FR. This material has some of the same qualities as unfilled Nylon 12 and will even produce parts that are physically identical to those you could make with unfilled Nylon 12. It has fantastic self-extinguishing properties when exposed to flame. This feature makes it perfect for aviation and automotive parts. Like the regular Unfilled Nylon 12, this material comes in white.
4. Carbon Fiber and Glass-Filled Nylon — This is among our strongest materials, even more durable than Unfilled Nylon 12. It also offers high heat resistance, dimensional stability, conductivity (due to its carbon composition), and flexibility. Although carbon fiber and glass-filled nylon are not flame retardants, they are still suitable for unmanned motor and air transportation. This material comes in light grey and black.
5. Alumide — Although the aluminum component of this material makes it somewhat fragile, it maintains good dimensional stability and boasts a gorgeously sleek metallic sheen. Alumide parts are more easily machined in post-machining operation than parts made with any other material. This material comes in a light grey neutral tone, making it versatile for any design color scheme.

For more information on these materials or to see what else we offer, check out our SLS materials page. Every project is unique, which is why you need to be selective with your materials. If you’re unsure which material is best for your product, we’ll help you determine the right choice. Contact us today to witness firsthand how we can bring your imagination to life!

For more information, please don't hesitate to contact us at or request a quote and upload your file today!