Resources

Knowledge Base

3D Printing Resources

Guides, tips, and expert knowledge to help you get the most out of your 3D printing projects with LifeBytes.

Everything You Need to Print with Confidence

Whether you’re just starting out or pushing the limits of advanced filaments, our resources are here to guide every step of your journey.

Start Here — Core Resources

The essentials for getting great results from your 3D printer.

LifeBytes 3D Printing

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers to the most common 3D printing questions we get at LifeBytes.

PLA is the best starting point. It’s easy to print, doesn’t require an enclosure, sticks well to most surfaces, and comes in a huge range of colours. Once you’re comfortable with PLA, PETG is a great next step — it adds better heat resistance and durability while still being relatively forgiving to print.
  • PLA — Easy to print, biodegradable, great detail. Not heat resistant. Best for display models, prototypes, household items.
  • PETG — Tougher than PLA, food-safe options available, slight flexibility. Great for functional parts.
  • ABS — High heat resistance, impact resistant, post-processable with acetone. Requires enclosure, strong fumes.
  • ASA / ASA-GF — Like ABS but UV resistant and more dimensionally stable. Ideal for outdoor use. ASA-GF adds glass fibre for extra stiffness.
Warping is usually caused by:
  • Bed temperature too low — increase by 5°C increments
  • First layer too far from the bed — re-level and reduce Z offset
  • Drafts or cooling — use an enclosure for ABS/ASA
  • Dirty bed — wipe with isopropyl alcohol before each print
  • Wrong bed surface — PEI sheets work well for most filaments
For persistent warping, try adding a brim in your slicer settings.
Good starting points for PETG:
  • Nozzle temp: 230–245°C
  • Bed temp: 70–85°C
  • Print speed: 40–60mm/s
  • Cooling: Low to medium (50% or less)
  • Retraction: 1–3mm direct drive, 4–6mm Bowden
PETG is prone to stringing — try increasing retraction slightly and reducing print temperature by 5°C if you see it.
TPU prints best on a direct drive extruder. Bowden setups can work but often struggle with the flexibility causing jams. Print slowly (20–30mm/s), use minimal retraction, and keep nozzle temp around 220–235°C. TPU is excellent for phone cases, gaskets, grips, and flexible hinges.
Yes! We print custom orders for prototypes, functional parts, replacement components, and creative projects across a range of FDM materials. Contact us with your file, material preference, quantity, and deadline and we’ll get back to you with a quote.
We accept STL, OBJ, 3MF, and STEP files. STL is the most common. If you only have a sketch or idea, reach out via our contact page and we can discuss your project.
We ship across the USA. Check our shop for current shipping options and rates at checkout. Follow us on social media for upcoming market dates and locations.

Still Have Questions?

Our team is happy to help with filament advice, print settings, custom orders, or anything else 3D printing related.

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