pastel coloured sneaker
Text: Martin Björk Published: November 13, 2023
About a week ago, 3D Prima exhibited at a technology fair in Denmark (please see other posts related to this fair). As usual, they searched for a model to demonstrate a printer's capabilities. In this case, they chose a Bambu Lab X1 printer with multi-color printing via the AMS station. The filament used was PolyTerra, Sakura Pink, Ice, and Cotton White from Polymaker.
The model was found on makerworld.com, and the result exceeded expectations, gaining considerable attention at the fair. It's a very nice PLA with a rather matte surface. Not entirely matte, but far from being as "glossy" as PLA can sometimes appear. We used Bambu Studio as the slicer and printed at 230 degrees Celsius. The slicer suggested 190 degrees as the default, but we found it to be too low and adjusted significantly upward. The heated build platform was set at 55 degrees, and we also applied a thin layer of PrimaFIX to make it easier to remove the print once finished. The inside of the shoe was printed in Sakura Pink, and if we had chosen white, we might have significantly reduced the print time as it required a color change after almost every layer. Nonetheless, it resulted in a very fine print overall.
Here's some information about Polymaker's filament for those interested.
What immediately stands out is their consistent environmental focus and the desire to use as much recyclable material as possible. All filament spools and cardboard in the PolyTerra series are made from recycled paper that can be tossed directly into paper recycling when the spool is used up. Their PLA is, of course, made from the purest corn starch that isn't used in feed or the food industry – it's a thoughtful approach and feels very modern. Their filament is also fully biodegradable (though it might take some time), meaning there's no need to feel guilty about using their PLA outdoors or near water. No toxic substances are present in their PLA.
Polymaker has also joined forces with OneTreePlanted, planting a new tree for every spool of filament they sell. To date, this initiative has resulted in over 130,000 newly planted trees. At 3D Prima, all suppliers are chosen with great care.
"Choosing a responsible and environmentally conscious company like Polymaker felt obvious. When they also deliver products that are extremely good and very popular among our customers, the decision is clear," says Martin Björk at 3D Prima proudly.
You can find the entire range of Polymaker products on 3D Prima's website or at one of their many retailers.