PLA vs. PETG: Choosing the Right Filament for Functional 3D Printed Parts

Introduction When it comes to 3D printing functional parts, material selection is just as critical as design and print settings. Two of the most popular filaments for this purpose are PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol). While both are user-friendly and widely available, they offer distinct advantages and limitations. Understanding these differences is […]

Where Can I Get Miniatures Printed in Ballarat?

Whether you’re painting armies for Warhammer, preparing for your next Dungeons & Dragons campaign, creating custom board game pieces, or bringing your own digital sculpt to life, finding high-quality miniature printing in Ballarat can make all the difference. The good news? You don’t need to own an expensive resin printer or spend hours troubleshooting failed […]

The lighter side of 3D printing

From printing out realistic-looking faux bananas to leaving miniature skeletons in a friend’s garden, the 3D printing community thrives on hilarious projects and absurd creations. These funny stories and print ideas show that while 3D printers can be practical, they are ultimately engines for ridiculous jokes. The “Rock-in-the-Box” Prank One classic internet favorite involves printing […]

Why We Print Stronger, Not Cheaper

At 3D Printing Ballarat, we make a deliberate choice when producing customer parts and products: We print for strength, reliability, and long-term durability — not just for the fastest print time or the lowest material cost. That decision affects everything from how we slice a model, to the wall thickness, infill, layer orientation, filament choice, […]

The Great Empty Spool Problem: What 3D Printing People Actually Do With Them

If you own a 3D printer long enough, eventually you end up staring at a growing tower of empty filament spools wondering how this became your life. It usually starts with good intentions.“I’ll reuse them.”“I’ll buy refills.”“These might come in handy.” Six months later you have a plastic spool mountain threatening structural integrity in the […]

The Future of 3D Printing in Ballarat: Trends to Watch in 2026

Ballarat is rapidly emerging as a hub for additive manufacturing innovation. As we move through 2026, local businesses and makers are leveraging 3D printing to revolutionize industries from healthcare to automotive. This article explores the key trends shaping the future of 3D printing in our region. Local Manufacturing Renaissance Ballarat’s industrial sector is experiencing a […]

Where to Get 3D Printing in Ballarat (2026 Complete Guide)

Looking for 3D Printing in Ballarat? If you’re searching for 3D printing in Ballarat, you’re probably trying to: The good news — you don’t need your own printer.Local 3D printing services can handle everything from simple repairs to complex custom builds. What Is 3D Printing (Quickly Explained)? 3D printing is a process where objects are […]

PLA vs PETG vs ABS: Which Material Is Best for Strong Parts?

Choosing the right material is one of the most important decisions in 3D printing. The three most common options—PLA, PETG, and ABS—each have strengths and weaknesses. Understanding the differences helps ensure your part performs as expected. PLA (Polylactic Acid) Pros: Cons: Best for: PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) Pros: Cons: Best for: ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) […]

How Strong Are 3D Printed Parts? (What You Need to Know)

One of the biggest concerns people have about 3D printing is strength. Can a plastic printed part really hold up in real-world use? The answer: it depends—but when done properly, 3D printed parts can be surprisingly strong. What Determines Strength? 1. Material Different plastics have very different properties. 2. Print Settings Strength isn’t just about […]

3D Printed Brackets and Mounts: Custom Solutions Explained

Brackets and mounts are among the most practical and widely used 3D printed parts. Whether you’re fixing something, installing equipment, or building a custom setup, 3D printing allows you to create exactly what you need. Why Use 3D Printing for Brackets? Traditional brackets are: 3D printing solves this by offering full customisation. Common Applications If […]