3D printing filament is the plastic thread that FDM 3D printers melt and build into objects layer by layer. Our range of over 30 spools comes from Flashforge, a maker of desktop 3D printers, and suits hobby users, students and small workshops who need material for prototypes, spare parts and models.
How to choose 3D printing filament
Material. PLA is the usual starting point because it prints at lower temperatures, rarely warps and works on most printers. PETG is tougher and handles light outdoor or kitchen use better, while ABS resists heat and impact but needs a heated bed and ideally an enclosure. Pick the material for what the part must withstand, not for what sounds most advanced.
Filament diameter. Most desktop FDM printers take 1.75 mm filament, and a few use 2.85 mm. Check the diameter in your printer's manual before ordering, because a spool of the wrong size will not feed through the extruder.
Printer compatibility. Every material has a recommended nozzle and bed temperature. If your printer has an all-metal hotend, a heated bed or an enclosure, you can use a wider set of materials. If it has none of these, PLA is the safer choice. Flashforge spools are a natural match for Flashforge printers, since the manufacturer designs both.
Spool weight and colour. A 1 kg spool is the common size and is enough for many small and medium prints. Larger models, or several copies of one part, use up a spool quickly, so buy a second spool in the same colour before you start. Colours can vary slightly between batches, which matters when parts must match.
Storage. Filament absorbs moisture from the air, which causes bubbling, stringing and brittle prints. Keep spools in a sealed bag or box with a desiccant, especially materials such as PETG and nylon.
Brands we carry
- Flashforge: a manufacturer of enclosed and open-frame FDM 3D printers, including the Adventurer and Creator series, which makes its filament a straightforward match when you already own one of its machines.
All 34 products in this category are from Flashforge, so you can compare spools within one brand and keep material, diameter and printer settings consistent.
Frequently asked questions about 3D printing filament
Which filament is best for beginners?
PLA is the best filament for beginners. It prints at lower temperatures, sticks well to the bed and does not need an enclosure. It is also easy to find in many colours, so you can focus on learning print settings first.
What size filament does my 3D printer use?
Most desktop FDM printers use 1.75 mm filament, and a smaller number use 2.85 mm. The correct size is listed in your printer's specifications or manual. Using the wrong diameter can cause feeding problems or jams.
Can I use Flashforge filament in other 3D printers?
Often yes, provided the diameter and temperature range match your printer. Many FDM printers accept standard 1.75 mm spools from any maker. Check the recommended nozzle and bed temperatures on the spool against what your printer can reach, and make sure the spool fits your holder.
How should I store 3D printing filament?
Store filament in a sealed container or resealable bag with a desiccant pack, away from damp and direct sunlight. Moisture is the main cause of poor print quality from older spools. If a spool crackles or the print looks rough and stringy, drying it in a filament dryer or a low-temperature oven section designed for the purpose can restore it.
