PLA filament remains the most popular material for 3D printing in the UK due to its ease of use, wide availability, and cost-effectiveness. As the leading choice for hobbyists and professionals alike, PLA has evolved into several specialised variants, each tailored for different applications—from recycled PLA to high-performance options like Tough PLA.
In 2023, we published a guide on the best PLA filament, but with new sustainable product releases and growing demand for eco-friendly alternatives, we’re updating our 2025 UK edition to help you navigate the latest PLA filament options available today.
How Popular is PLA Filament? What Types Available, UK Stock?
According to a 2025 Filamentive survey, PLA filament remains the dominant choice for 3D printing, with various PLA-based filaments also gaining traction.
At Filamentive, we’re proud to supply many of the UK’s most popular PLA filaments, including:
Recycled PLA
ReFill PLA (spool-less, Bambu Lab AMS compatible)
Matte PLA
Tough PLA
Wood PLA
Glitter PLA (Cosmic)
A common question from UK 3D printer operators is: “Which is the best PLA filament to use?” This guide will help you choose the right 3D printing filament UK users trust for their specific projects.
Filamentive PLA – Recycled PLA 3D Printer Filament
Our best-selling PLA filament is recognised for its premium quality and sustainability. Made with a high percentage of recycled material, Filamentive PLA helps reduce environmental impact without compromising on printability or strength.
Key Features:
✅ Up to 87% recycled material
✅ Available in a range of colours and reel sizes
✅ Reliable, high-quality prints for prototypes & functional parts
- 3D Printing Temperature: 205±10°C
- User Level: Beginner
- Example Use Case: Eco-friendly PLA filament for general prototyping & non-industrial end-use applications
ReFill PLA – Spool-Less, Bambu Lab AMS-Compatible Filament
ReFill PLA is a game-changer for sustainable 3D printing. By eliminating the spool, we help reduce 20% of plastic waste, making it one of the most eco-friendly PLA filaments in the UK. Additionally, ReFill PLA is fully compatible with Bambu Lab AMS, offering a seamless printing experience for Bambu Lab 3D printer users.
Key Features:
✅ Spool-free design for reduced plastic waste
✅ Designed for Bambu Lab AMS compatibility
✅ Same premium PLA quality, now with enhanced sustainability
- 3D Printing Temperature: 205±10°C
- User Level: Beginner
- Example Use Case: Sustainable, spool-free PLA filament for Bambu Lab AMS users
Matte PLA – The Best PLA Filament for Aesthetic 3D Prints
For designers and makers seeking a smooth, textured finish, Matte PLA filament is the perfect choice. Specially formulated to reduce visible layer lines, it provides a premium aesthetic ideal for homeware, decor, and consumer goods.
Key Features:
✅ Textured, low-layer visibility finish
✅ Available in a variety of colours
✅ Supplied on a 100% recyclable cardboard spool
- 3D Printing Temperature: 210±20°C
- User Level: Intermediate
- Example Use Case: Aesthetic 3D-printed products such as homeware & consumer goods
Tough PLA – Impact-Resistant PLA Filament
For 3D printing UK users who require extra durability, Tough PLA filament is the answer. PLA Tough offers ABS-like impact resistance, making it perfect for manufacturing aids, tooling, and end-use components.
Key Features:
✅ 750% stronger than standard PLA
✅ ABS-level durability with PLA’s ease of printing
✅ Ideal for functional & industrial applications
- 3D Printing Temperature: 210±10°C
- User Level: Beginner
- Example Use Case: High-impact 3D prints, manufacturing tools & functional parts
Wood PLA – The Best Wood Filament for 3D Printing
Wood PLA filament blends 40% wood fibre with 60% PLA, offering a realistic wood-like texture, colour, and aroma. With minimal warping and easy printability, it’s the go-to filament for wood-inspired 3D prints.
Key Features:
✅ Realistic wood texture & colour
✅ Sanding, varnishing & post-processing compatible
✅ Ideal for artistic, decor, and model-making applications
- 3D Printing Temperature: 200±10°C
- User Level: Intermediate
- Example Use Case: 3D printing wood-like decor, models, and artistic projects
PLA Cosmic – The Best Glitter PLA Filament for 3D Printing
Looking to add sparkle to your 3D prints? PLA Cosmic is a high-quality Glitter PLA filament infused with non-toxic metallic flakes to create stunning, shimmering prints. Unlike some glitter filaments, PLA Cosmic is non-abrasive, meaning no special nozzle is required when 3D printing with it.
Key Features:
✅ Shimmering glitter effect for decorative prints
✅ Easy to print – no hardened nozzle required
✅ Smooth, polished finish with reduced layer visibility
- 3D Printing Temperature: 205±10°C
- User Level: Beginner
- Example Use Case: Decorative, artistic, and eye-catching 3D prints
Which PLA Filament in the UK is Best for 3D Printing?
Choosing the best PLA filament UK users can depend on your specific 3D printing needs:
✔ For sustainable, high-quality prints → PLA Filament
✔ For Bambu Lab AMS users & zero-waste printing → ReFill PLA
✔ For a smooth, premium aesthetic → Matte PLA Filament
✔ For impact-resistant functional parts → Tough PLA Filament
✔ For wood-like textures & artistic models → Wood PLA Filament
✔ For eye-catching, shimmering prints → PLA Cosmic (Glitter PLA)
At Filamentive, we’re proud to supply high-quality, PLA 3D printer filament UK users trust, with premium print performance and a commitment to sustainability, which includes free PLA 3D printing waste recycling.