Introduction
Starting your 3D printing journey can feel both exciting and overwhelming. One of the most common beginner questions is: which filament should I buy first? Among the many materials available, PLA+ has become the top choice for newcomers due to its user-friendliness, durability, and reliable print quality. And when it comes to building a versatile setup without overspending, PLA+ bundles—which combine multiple colors and spool sizes—offer the perfect solution. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the right PLA+ bundles, focusing on color selection, weight distribution, and key factors to ensure a successful start.
Why PLA+ Bundles Matter for Beginners
PLA+ isn’t just regular PLA with a new label. It’s an enhanced version of one of the world’s most popular 3D printing materials. Infused with additives that boost its mechanical strength, flexibility, and temperature resistance, PLA+ allows you to print more durable, smoother models while keeping the same low-warp, low-odor benefits that beginners love. Buying PLA+ in bundles gives you the freedom to experiment with different colors and finishes without committing to large quantities. You can test various shades, discover which ones suit your style, and gradually build a palette that matches your projects. Whether you’re printing prototypes, miniatures, or household items, bundles help you explore your creativity while keeping costs efficient.
Understanding PLA+ Basics
What Is PLA+ Filament?
PLA+ (Polylactic Acid Plus) is a biodegradable thermoplastic made from renewable sources such as corn starch or sugarcane. What makes it “plus” are the added polymers and modifiers that enhance toughness and reduce brittleness. Compared to standard PLA, it’s less likely to crack under stress, can handle slightly higher temperatures, and produces a more refined surface finish. Typical print temperatures for PLA+ range between 200°C and 220°C, with a bed temperature of 50–60°C. It’s compatible with almost all FDM printers and doesn’t require an enclosure, making it ideal for hobbyists.
PLA+ vs. PLA vs. Other Materials
PLA+ sits between beginner simplicity and advanced performance. Compared to ABS or PETG, it doesn’t emit strong fumes, is easier to print, and still provides good strength for most non-industrial applications. If you’re just getting started, it’s the sweet spot between reliability, printability, and professional-looking results.
Key Considerations When Choosing a PLA+ Bundle
Filament Diameter & Tolerance
Most modern printers use 1.75 mm filament, which offers better extrusion consistency. Always check that your bundle specifies tight tolerances—ideally ±0.02 mm—to avoid clogs and uneven printing.
Color & Finish Options
Color choice is about more than looks—it influences how well your prints hide or reveal imperfections. Neutral colors like white, gray, and black are ideal for testing settings and calibration since they show details clearly. Brighter colors (like red, blue, or green) are great for decorative or showcase prints. Specialty finishes—such as silk, matte, or glow-in-the-dark—add flair but require more fine-tuning.
Bundle Weights & Spool Sizes
PLA+ bundles typically include multiple spools, often 250 g, 500 g, or 1 kg each. Smaller spools are perfect for experimentation, while larger ones are more economical for frequently used colors. Beginners should aim for a mix—for example, one 1 kg spool of white or black (for everyday prints) and several smaller spools in bright colors for creative projects.
Storage, Packaging, and Moisture Control
PLA+ absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to bubbling or weak layers. Look for bundles that come vacuum-sealed with desiccants and store them in airtight containers or filament boxes. This simple step significantly extends filament lifespan and ensures consistent quality.
Brand Trust & Quality Assurance
Not all PLA+ is equal. Reputable brands test for diameter precision, batch consistency, and color stability. Check customer reviews or sample prints before committing. Well-known producers like FilaLab, eSun, or Overture maintain high standards that help beginners avoid frustration.
Which Colors & Weights Should You Start With?
Best “Starter” Colors for Learning
When you’re still learning print settings, white and gray are your best friends. They highlight surface details and layer lines, making troubleshooting easier. Black is great for final prints but can hide flaws during testing. For a touch of fun, include one or two bright colors—like red or blue—to add variety to your projects. Avoid transparent or highly reflective shades at first, as they’re harder to calibrate.
Recommended Weight Mixes for Bundles
For your first bundle, consider something like:
- 1 kg of white or gray PLA+ for prototyping.
- 500 g of black for final prints.
- 250 g spools of 2–3 fun colors (red, green, blue).
This mix gives you both volume for practice and flexibility for creative work. It’s also cost-effective because you won’t waste large amounts of expensive filament during trial runs.
Specialty / Accent Colors
Once you master the basics, you can branch out into metallic, silk, or glow-in-the-dark PLA+. These filaments make beautiful showcase pieces and gifts but require extra care with temperature and speed settings. Use them to highlight parts of multi-color models or to make decorative features stand out.
Tips for Best Printing Results with PLA+ Bundles
Ideal Print Settings
Start with 205–215°C for your nozzle and 55°C for the bed. Adjust based on your printer and environment. Slow down the print speed for detailed models to improve surface smoothness.
Bed Adhesion & First-Layer Tips
Good bed adhesion prevents warping. Use a clean glass bed, PEI sheet, or painter’s tape. Level your bed carefully before every print and consider using a light adhesive like glue stick or hairspray.
Drying & Moisture Management
If you hear popping noises or see stringing, your filament has likely absorbed moisture. You can dry PLA+ in a filament dryer or an oven at 45–50°C for a few hours. Store spools in sealed bags with silica gel after use.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Watch out for overheating, which causes blobs and stringing. Under-extrusion usually signals a partially clogged nozzle or incorrect filament diameter settings. Regular cleaning and calibration go a long way toward keeping prints consistent.
Conclusion
Choosing your first PLA+ bundle is one of the most enjoyable parts of entering the 3D printing world. With a good understanding of colors, weights, and storage, you’ll save time, avoid frustration, and produce prints you’ll be proud of. Start with a balanced mix of neutral and bright colors, pick reputable brands like FilaLab, and focus on experimenting—because every print teaches you something new. Your perfect first prints are just a spool away—explore PLA+ bundles today and start bringing your ideas to life, one color at a time