Silk PLA: a glossy filament and its weak points

Why Silk PLA is shiny

It is PLA mixed with additives that strengthen the reflection of light and give the surface a pearly effect. Manufacturers sell it in shades of gold, copper and silver, or as two-colour gradients. The polymer itself is still polylactic acid, but the mixture melts and sets a little differently from standard PLA.

The shine shows best on smooth, rounded surfaces. On sharp edges and steep overhangs, every imperfection stands out instead.

What to watch out for

• Strength: the layers bond less well, so parts cope better with pressure than with bending. It is not suitable for functional parts and snap-fit joints.
• Detail: it prints more slowly, is more prone to stringing and small flaws, and fine lettering can blur.
• Supports: the spots left after removing supports are visible, and the shine emphasises them.

As decoration it is excellent: vases, figurines, candle holders, gifts.

Silk PLA and ordering with us

In the calculator you choose the material PLA or PETG. A specific surface type, that is a silky shine, a matte or a wood look, is not on offer and we cannot guarantee it. If you need a glossy effect for your project, write to jakub.novak@boostello.com, though we do not promise to print it.

You can get a glossy look in other ways too. If it is only a few parts, choose PETG, which has a naturally slightly glossy surface, or polish or paint the part yourself at home, see painting. We do not do post-processing.

How to get a nice shine without silk

Smooth surfaces without needless overhangs always look better. With a smaller layer height the steps are finer and the surface reflects more light. Model orientation matters too: put the surface that is meant to be seen on top or on a side without supports.

In the note to your order you can write what matters most for appearance on the part. Every batch is photographed before it ships.