3D printing is a manufacturing technology that creates three-dimensional objects from digital models using materials called filaments. It uses a 3D printer that adds material layer by layer, such as plastics or metals, following the instructions of the digital model to build the desired object. It is used in a variety of industries for prototypes, functional parts and customized products.
At Winkle, we offer a wide variety of 3D filaments:
There are numerous websites and online platforms where you can download 3D models.
The most well-known sites for obtaining 3D models are cults3d.com, printables.com, thangs.com, and thingiverse.com.
While these sites are the most recognized for downloading free 3D models for 3D printers, we encourage you to search online and find the page that best suits you and your printing needs.
The diameter of filament you should use depends on your 3D printer. FDM printers commonly use 1.75 mm or 2.85 mm filament, like the ones we sell at Winkle. Check your printer’s manual or manufacturer’s specifications to confirm the compatible diameter before purchasing filament.
The main difference between 1.75 mm and 2.85 mm filaments is the diameter. The 1.75 mm filaments tend to be more common and are used in many 3D printers due to their flexibility and lower resistance to flow. The thicker 2.85 mm filaments can offer greater stability in the extruder and are less prone to clogging. The choice between them will always depend on compatibility with your 3D printer and your printing needs.
Winkle materials are compatible with most FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) 3D printers that accept 1.75mm or 2.85mm filament. Be sure to check your printer’s specifications to confirm the filament diameter it uses and adjust the print parameters according to your chosen material. If you have questions about compatibility, please consult your printer’s manual or contact our technical support.
An FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printer is a type of 3D printer that manufactures objects by adding material in successive layers. It uses a thermoplastic filament that is melted and extruded through a heated nozzle, depositing it layer by layer to build the object. It is one of the most common and accessible technologies for 3D printing, ideal for prototypes, functional parts and detailed models.
At Winkle, all of our filaments are compatible with most FDM printers. We offer a wide variety of options, including PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA, flexible and recycled filaments, among others. Each type of filament is designed to meet different printing needs, so you can find the right one for your project by adjusting the printing parameters according to the material you choose.
At Winkle we have a wide range of colors and finishes, adapted to each material and each user. The color families we have are: yellow, blue, beige, white, bronze, copper, gray, mauve, brown, purple, orange, black, red, pink, transparent and green.
Within these color families we have special colors depending on the material, so you can choose the color tone that best suits you.
The different materials for 3D printing have unique properties that affect the outcome of your prints:
Each material has its specific advantages, as well as different printing profiles. We invite you to check out the Winkle dossier to see all the differences between our filaments.
To properly store your 3D filaments:
These practices will help prolong the lifespan of the filament and ensure quality prints.