Materials for 3D printing

Choosing the right material is just as important as choosing the right 3D printing method. The materials used in 3D printing directly influence the strength, flexibility, finish, and functionality of the final part. From basic thermoplastics to high-performance resins and powders, this section explores the most common supplies for 3D printing and how they perform across different technologies. Whether you’re printing prototypes, tooling, or end-use parts, understanding the available materials for 3D printer setups helps you make better, application-driven choices.

What is 3D printing material made of?

At the heart of every 3D print is the material itself — a substance specifically engineered to behave predictably under the conditions of additive manufacturing. Whether solid filament, powdered polymer, or liquid resin, every 3D printing material is made of carefully formulated ingredients designed to deliver a specific balance of flow, strength, adhesion, and surface finish.

The composition of a 3D printing material depends entirely on the technology it’s intended for. Let’s take a closer look at how the most common material types are made.

Table of content

  1. Polymers in 3D printing
  2. 3D printing of metals
  3. Biocompatible materials for 3D printing
  4. Raw materials for 3D printing
  5. Composites 3D printing
  6. Recycled 3D printing filament
  7. 3D printing flexible
  8. Filament types for 3D printing
  9. What material does a 3D printer use?
  10. 3D printing strongest material
  11. 3D printing shape memory polymer
  12. SLS ceramic
  13. SLS glass
  14. SLS wood
  15. Materials for SLS: guide

Other sections

Icon showing a 3D printer symbol with a cursor. Represents a glossary of key 3D printing terms and definitions.

3D printing definitions

Open book icon symbolizing an overview of 3D printing basics and foundational concepts for beginners.

Introduction to 3D printing

Magnifying glass over a 3D cube. Illustrates various types of 3D printing technologies and how they differ.

3D printing technologies

Production line icon. Highlights the industrial and everyday uses of 3D printing across different sectors.

Applications of 3D printing

3D block structure icon. Emphasizes CAD principles and best practices for designing printable objects.

Design for 3D printing

Person at computer icon. Depicts slicing tools, modeling software, and workflow automation in 3D printing.

Software for 3D printing

Gears and conveyor icon. Represents the end-to-end workflow of the 3D printing process from file to part.

3D printing process

Brush and scalpel icon. Refers to post-print finishing techniques like support removal and surface treatment.

Post-processing in 3D printing

ROI and dollar icon. Represents economic considerations, including ROI and maintenance costs of printers.

Costs of 3D printings

Person examining a machine. Guide on selecting the right 3D printer based on needs and use case.

How to choose a 3D printer

Leaf icon. Points to environmental impact, recyclability, and energy consumption of 3D printing processes.

Sustainability of 3D printing

Globe and magnifier icon. Envisions trends, emerging technologies, and predictions for the future of additive manufacturing.

Future of 3D printing

Light bulb icon. Alternative focus on pricing strategies, cost-saving tips, and investment insights.

FAQ