Want PLA prints that look shiny straight off the bed? RepRapper Tech Silk PLA is a specialty PLA with a silk-like, metal-ish sheen. It is made for decorative parts, props, and models where the finish matters as much as the shape. It still prints like PLA for most FDM machines: low warp, low odor, and easy bed stick. What's Included 1.75 mm RepRapper Tech Silk PLA 1 kg net Diameter held to ±0.03 mm Tangle-focused, layer-by-layer wind Print Settings Nozzle: 180–205°C (lower about 180–185°C for surface/shine; higher about 195–205°C for bonding and speed) Bed: about 40°C (many PLA jobs also work without a heated bed) First layer: about 20 mm/s if sticking is hard Retraction starting points: direct about 1.5 mm at 30 mm/s; Bowden about 4 mm at 30 mm/s (then test) If wet: dry about 4–6 hours at 40–45°C; store sealed with desiccant Silk PLA can grind in the extruder on heavy-retraction jobs. Ease tension, soften retraction, and prefer one object at a time. For brittle show pieces, try 4 walls and at least 15% infill. Material RepRapper uses virgin NatureWorks Ingeo PLA pellets for this line Silk PLA is a bit softer than standard PLA, so dial retraction carefully and add walls/infill if parts need more strength Finish & Look Glossy silk / pearlescent look without painting. Curved surfaces and larger faces show the shine best. Small details can snap more easily than with standard PLA. Good To Know Not rainbow or gradient silk Not the strongest engineering PLA. Pick standard or tough PLA when strength comes first Good For Decorative models and display pieces Cosplay props and shiny accents Vases, figurines, and curved surfaces that show the shine
