Our busts are available in two materials: PLA and PETG. Each has different strengths. Here you can find out which material is right for your spot.
What is PLA?
PLA (polylactic acid) is a plastic made mainly from renewable raw materials such as corn starch or sugar cane. It can be printed very precisely, which makes it the most popular material for decorative 3D prints. For busts in particular, PLA impresses with fine details and a high-quality matte surface.
Advantages of PLA
- Very high detail accuracy
- Sharp facial features and fine structures
- Smooth, matte surface
- Made from renewable raw materials
- Ideal for living spaces, offices and exhibitions
Disadvantages of PLA
- Less heat-resistant (deforms from about 55–60 °C)
- Not suitable for direct sun behind glass, conservatories or outdoor use
- Lower impact resistance than PETG
What is PETG?
PETG (polyethylene terephthalate glycol) is a particularly robust plastic with good resistance to moisture and weather. PETG busts are suitable for more demanding environments and sheltered outdoor areas.
Advantages of PETG
- Very robust and less prone to breakage
- Higher temperature resistance (approx. 75–80 °C)
- Resistant to water and moisture
- More UV-resistant than PLA
Disadvantages of PETG
- Slightly less sharp detail
- Surface looks slightly glossy
Direct comparison
| Property | PLA | PETG |
|---|---|---|
| Detail accuracy | Excellent | Very good |
| Surface | Fine and matte | Slightly glossy |
| Impact resistance | Medium | High |
| Temperature resistance | up to approx. 60 °C | up to approx. 80 °C |
| UV resistance | Medium | Good |
| Moisture resistance | Medium | Very good |
| Indoors | Ideal | Very good |
| Sheltered outdoor areas | Not suitable | Suitable |
When PLA, when PETG?
Choose PLA if your bust will stand in the living room, office, study or on a shelf and the finest details and an elegant matte surface matter to you. That is why we make most of our busts from PLA.
Choose PETG if the bust will be exposed to special conditions, for example:
- on covered terraces or balconies
- in a conservatory or by sunny windows
- in humid rooms
- in public facilities or when transported frequently
Important: PETG is also intended for sheltered outdoor areas only. You should not place a 3D-printed bust permanently unprotected in the garden, in the rain or in frost.
Sustainability
PLA is made mainly from renewable raw materials. It is biodegradable under industrial composting conditions, but usually not in a home compost. PETG is petroleum-based, but very durable and easy to recycle.