Wood filaments – definition

Wood filament is a specialized FDM filament for 3D printing wooden-like objects. It is made of:

• Recycled wood: This makes wood filaments eco-friendly, a sustainable choice for the environmentally conscious creators.
• PLA filament: Polylactic acid (PLA) is the primary plastic component, known for its ease of use and bioplastic properties.
• Binding polymers: These additives help achieve the right consistency and printability.

Wood filament combines the benefits of PLA with the looks of real wood. The wood powder gives a wood-like appearance and texture when 3D printed, so you can create intricate designs that mimic traditional woodworking. This blend not only looks great but also adds a unique feel to the finished prints, perfect for art, design and functional items.

Composition of wood filaments

Component	Description	Percentage
Recycled wood fibers	Made from reclaimed wood materials, providing an eco-friendly option for 3D printing.	Varies by type
PLA (Polylactic Acid)	A biodegradable thermoplastic derived from renewable resources, serving as the base material.	Approximately 70%
Binding polymers	Added to enhance filament strength and improve printability, ensuring a smooth extrusion process.	Varies by type
Wood dust and particles	Fine particles mixed into the filament to create a realistic wood-like appearance and texture.	Around 30%

 

Woodfill: This contains recycled wood fibers blended with PLA/PHA compounds, a unique aesthetic while still printable.

• Wood filament: Made of recycled wood and PLA filament and binding polymers, versatile for various printing applications.
• Wood-based filaments: These are composites that integrate a PLA base with wood dust, cork and other powdered derivatives, the printed parts will look like real wood.
• Wood PLA filament: Made from plant-based materials and polymers, this one emphasizes sustainability while delivering good prints.

Using these components gives you design freedom while promoting eco-responsible practices in 3D printing.

Types of wood filaments

Woodfill: This bio material combines recycled wood with PLA, an eco-friendly option for 3D printing. Emits a pleasant woodshop smell during printing and easy to use, beautiful results.Wood PLA Filament: Made from a blend of plant-based materials and polymers, 1.75mm diameter, 1kg spool. Print temperatures 180°C – 220°C, no heated bed, less warping than standard PLA. Ideal for displays or small household prints, retains color and wood look.

Wood-Based Filaments: Approximately 30% wood particles mixed with PLA. Less abrasive than other composites due to wood particles. May string during printing, using larger nozzle sizes helps to minimize clogging issues.

Blended Wood Filament: Small wood particles in polylactic acid (PLA) combining the benefits of easy to print bioplastics with the natural look and feel of wood. The wood content adds rigidity and texture to printed objects.

These wood filaments cater to different preferences and project requirements, so you can achieve unique finishes while enjoying eco-friendly materials in your 3D printing.

Benefits of wood filaments

Aesthetic appeal: Wood filaments combine PLA with the looks of real wood, resulting to prints that look like natural wooden objects.

Ease of post-processing: Many wood based filaments can be refined with standard wood sandpaper, smooth and polished finish on your prints.

Reduced abrasiveness: Wood filaments are less abrasive than other composite filaments, gentle on your printer’s nozzle and extends its life.

Layer line concealment: These filaments hide layer lines between different layers of a print, more seamless and visually appealing final product.

Increased rigidity: The wood content adds rigidity to the filament compared to standard PLA, added strength to your printed objects without compromising print quality.

Using wood filaments not only improves the visual quality of your 3D prints but also simplifies the printing process and durability.

Applications of wood filaments in 3D printing

• Decorative items: Wood filaments are perfect for creating beautiful decorative pieces, vases, wall art and ornaments. The wood finish adds warmth and elegance to any space.* Artistic sculptures: Artists can use wood filaments to create intricate sculptures that mimic the texture and look of real wood. For unique artistic expressions and eco-friendly way.
• Architectural models: When designing architectural prototypes, wood filaments provide a realistic representation of wooden structures. Useful for presentations and client meetings where visuals matter.
• Realistic prototypes: For industries that require product visualization such as furniture or consumer goods, wood filaments can create prototypes that look and feel like the final product.
• Furniture design: Designers can use wood filaments to prototype small furniture pieces or accessories. The natural look allows for immediate visual feedback on color and texture.
• Small household items: Coasters, keychains, kitchen utensils, etc. can be printed with wood filaments. Practical and rustic.
• Educational projects: Wood filaments are popular in educational settings where students learn design principles and sustainable materials. Hands-on experience with 3D printing and eco-friendly practices.
• Custom gifts and personalized items: Unique properties of wood filaments make them perfect for custom gifts like engraved plaques or personalized keepsakes. These items have a personal touch that resonates with the recipient.

Using wood filaments opens up many creative avenues in 3D printing, where makers can create beautiful pieces that combine function and aesthetic.

Wood filament print settings

Setting	Recommended Value	Notes
Hotend temperature	210°C – 230°C	This range ensures optimal melting of the wood filament for smooth extrusion.
Heated bed temperature	110°C – 120°C	A heated bed helps prevent warping and improves adhesion during printing.
Nozzle size	0.4 mm or larger	Larger nozzles reduce clogging risks due to wood particles, enhancing print reliability.
Retraction settings	Adjust as needed	Fine-tuning retraction can minimize stringing and improve overall print quality.

 

When printing with wood filaments, consider:

• Color variations: Lower temperatures for brighter colors, higher temperatures for darker colors.
• Nozzle size recommendations: Use a larger nozzle to accommodate the filament’s texture and prevent clogging.

By following these settings you can get great results with your wood filament prints, aesthetic and structural integrity in your projects.

Comparison with traditional PLA filaments

Feature	Wood Filament	PLA Filament
Printing ease	Similar to PLA	Easy to print, widely used
Viscosity	Slightly less viscous than PLA or ABS	Standard viscosity
Rigidity	Increased rigidity due to wood content	Lower rigidity compared to wood filament
Abrasiveness	Less abrasive; wood particles are softer	Generally non-abrasive
Stringing	Prone to stringing during printing	Can also string, but typically less so

Post-processing techniques for wood prints

• Sanding: Use standard wood sandpaper to refine the surface finish of your prints. Smooths out imperfections and enhances the wood look.
• Sealing: Apply clear sealant or varnish to protect the print and enhance the color. This step can also add a glossy finish, makes the wood filament look more realistic.* Staining: For added depth and character, you can use wood stains. This way you can customize the color of your print and keep the texture.
• Painting: If you want to add different colors or effects, painting with acrylics can work. Make sure the paint adheres well by preparing the surface properly.
• Burnishing: Gently rubbing the surface with a soft cloth can give a polished look. This method is good for smooth texture without removing too much material.
• Heat Treatment: Carefully apply heat to smooth out layer lines further. Use a heat gun at low setting to avoid warping or damaging your print.

These post-processing techniques not only improves aesthetics but also durability and functionality, makes your 3D printed objects from wood filaments truly unique.

Storage and handling of wood filaments

Store in dry conditions: Wood filaments require dry storage to prevent moisture absorption which can affect print quality.

Use airtight containers: Store wood filaments in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to protect them from humidity and maintain their integrity.

Include silica gel packs: Add silica gel packs to your storage containers to absorb any remaining moisture, so the filaments remain dry and usable.

Handle with care: Due to their composition, wood filaments are more brittle than standard PLA. Always handle them gently to avoid breakage during use or transport.

Monitor humidity levels: Check your storage area’s humidity levels regularly. Aim for relative humidity below 50% for optimal filament preservation.

By following these guidelines you can maintain the quality of your wood filaments and get great results during printing.