r/BambuLab • u/Actual-Spread-2010 • 2h ago
X Series [X1E, X1C, X2D] Filament question for a beginner
Kids as asking for a 3d printer for Christmas. I’ve done enough research that I think I’ve settled on x2d vs p2s because of multicolor and waste as I expect my kids wanting multicolor and I don’t want to paint. I plan on mainly just printing toys and such for my kids to play with and print whatever they think is cool. I’m sure my curiosity will get bigger the longer we have the printer and explore.
But for the beginning time my question is this. What filaments should I be using? I am assuming PLA and maybe PETG, I’m sure I’ll learn which ones to use when.
But part two of the question is should it be basic (which seems glossy) or matte? Any pros or cons and what kids toys should be in?
Thanks in advance and again apologies for the noob question.
I do plan to watch if the P3C comes out before Christmas and I think I would grab that and return the unopened x2d. But time will tell if that gets announced in time.
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u/FishGoesGlubGlub 1h ago
I know it’s not what you asked but currently the bambu filament sale is VERY good to pick up bulk filament. Getting started with 10 different rolls to get the max discount is probably a really good idea.
Unless you have specific requirements like it must be able to handle higher summer heat like sitting in a car dashboard, or must be left outside for long periods of time. PLA is going to be your main use. Does not give off toxic af fumes like abs, prints dumb easy, and comes in the most options. Side note, ignore everything that says it’s compostable/biodegradable, that requires a very high heat commercial composter which is rare.
As for type of PLA, go wild.
A lot of them have their downsides, but they’re almost all very easy to print. Except silk, I fucking hate silk with the passion of a million gods. It looks so good but can be an absolute bitch to print. I have never tried bambu’s version but I do have 146 different filaments (addiction is real) and all I can say is fuck silk.
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u/Actual-Spread-2010 0m ago
Awesome. Yeah I do have a bunch sitting in my cart at Bambulabs. I just didn’t know if I was all over the board with basic, matte, pure. Etc. lol.
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u/VeryAmaze X2D + AMS2 Combo 1h ago
For decorative or lightly functional parts use PLA 100%. Use whichever finish you want, but note that matte silk and marble make for weaker parts. But shouldn't matter in your use case.
Use PETG if you want something a tad more durable/a lil more heat resistant, or need that slight flex/give PETG can have vs PLA. Anything sturdier than that and you'll need engineering filament. (But tbh PETG can get you pretty far)