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  • PLA 3D Printing Filament - What is it?

    by Cheryl Hendrick

    PLA (Polylactic Acid) filament is a common, plant-based, and biodegradable plastic material used in 3D printing, known for its ease of printing and good surface finish.

    Let’s look into the world of PLA filament types and what each one is best used for!
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    1. Standard PLA – The Trusty Sidekick

    Think of Standard PLA as the reliable friend who always shows up on time and never forgets your birthday. It prints easily, doesn’t warp much, and gives you nice, smooth results. If you’re printing prototypes, figurines, or decor that doesn’t need to withstand the apocalypse, this is your go-to filament.

    Best for: Beginners, decorative prints, prototypes, and general-purpose fun.


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    2. Silk PLA – The Shiny Showoff

    Want your prints to look like they’ve been buffed by a team of overly enthusiastic elves? Silk PLA has a glossy, almost metallic finish that makes your prints pop. Great for display pieces and anything that needs a bit of pizzazz!

    Best for: Decorative models, vases, fancy figurines, and making people say, “Wait, that’s 3D printed?!”


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    3. Wood-Filled PLA – The Lumberjack’s Dream

    It’s like regular PLA, but with a sprinkle of sawdust and a whole lot of rustic charm. Wood PLA prints can be sanded and even stained, giving you that handcrafted look without ever picking up a hammer.

    Best for: Faux-wood sculptures, rustic decor, and convincing people you whittled it yourself.


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    4. Glow-in-the-Dark PLA – The Party Animal

    This filament absorbs light and then glows in the dark like a tiny, plastic superhero. Whether you’re making spooky Halloween decorations or just want a glow-in-the-dark octopus (because why not?), this one’s got you covered.

    Best for: Halloween prints, nightlights, and pretending you have secret alien technology.


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    5. Metal-Filled PLA – The Heavyweight Contender

    Infused with tiny metal particles, this filament gives your prints a metallic sheen and extra weight. It won’t be as strong as real metal, but it looks and feels more substantial than standard PLA.

    Best for: Decorative metal-like objects, cosplay props, and tricking your friends into thinking you’re a blacksmith.


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    6. Carbon Fiber PLA – The Tough Guy

    Reinforced with carbon fiber, this filament is stronger and stiffer than regular PLA. It’s great for functional parts, but be warned—it’s tougher on your printer’s nozzle, so make sure you have a hardened one ready.

    Best for: Durable prototypes, functional parts, and showing off that you know what “reinforced” means.


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    7. Matte PLA – The Understated Beauty

    Matte PLA is the opposite of Silk PLA—no shine, just a smooth, soft finish that reduces layer lines. It’s great when you want a professional, muted look instead of a glossy finish.

    Best for: Architectural models, professional-looking prototypes, and when you want your print to whisper instead of scream.


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    8. Transparent PLA – The See-Through Wonder

    It’s not completely invisible (sorry, Harry Potter fans), but it does have a semi-transparent effect depending on how you print it. Thinner walls make it more see-through, making it perfect for light-diffusing projects.

    Best for: Light-up projects, decorative translucent parts, and looking fancy.


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    Wrapping It Up

    Choosing the right PLA filament is like picking the right tool for the job—or the right outfit for the occasion. Whether you need strength, shine, glow, or wood-like charm, there’s a PLA type for you. 

    Stay tuned for the next post in our 3D printing filament series, where we’ll explore the world beyond PLA. (Yes, there’s a whole universe of filaments out there!)

     

  • Upcoming Shows

    by Cheryl Hendrick
    Here is a list of our upcoming in person Craft Shows in Las Vegas, Nevada thru December. 
    Posted in Christmas, coaster, cottage core, craft show, gift show, Halloween, housewarminggift, kiln glass, Las Vegas Craft Shows, laser engraved slate, ornaments, shopping

  • What is striker glass?

    by Cheryl Hendrick
    Striker glass is glass that changes color during the heating and cooling process. Striking refers to the color change that occurs in colored glass as it is heated and cooled and rewarmed. it has 3 parts. reset, cool and warm. Heating the glass up to molten temps, resets the glass from the production heating process and it usually turns clear, erasing the thermal history. The heat within the glass causes the color change to yellows, reds, oranges, ambers, and transparent dark brown. After the glass has cooled, but not gotten cold, the glass is rewarmed to lower temps, and the purples, blues and greens appear. This is the true color of the glass.
    Posted in art glass, color change, color strike, color striking, Dichroic, dichroic glass, glass, kiln glass

  • 11 Tips for Cleaning and Caring for Laser Engraved Slate Coasters

    by Cheryl Hendrick

    11 Tips to care for your laser engraved slate coasters

    Uses of Slate

    Slate has been used as a construction material since the time of ancient Egyptians. Slate is a natural, aesthetically pleasing stone, commonly used for: roofing, flooring tiles, wall cladding, garden decorations, table tops, countertops, serving platters, plates, coasters and restaurants serving ware. 

    How to clean slate coasters

    1. Simple cleaning products work best. Mix dish soap with warm water, use a soft sponge or dishcloth, and gently wash, then towel dry. The best cleaning products for slates are the simplest. Use dish soap with warm water and start washing. Some commercial products also offer superior protection against grease and oil-based stains on slates. 

    Posted in cars, classic car, coaster, furniture protector, housewarminggift, laser engraved slate, muscle car, retro merch, vintage car

  • Discover the Mesmerizing Magic of Dichroic Fused Glass Jewelry

    by Cheryl Hendrick

    Fused glass jewelry is a must-have accessory for anyone who wants to add a pop of color and unique style to their wardrobe! Our handmade pieces are expertly crafted using the highest quality materials and are available in a range of vibrant hues and designs. Each piece is carefully fused and shaped to create a truly one-of-a-kind item that is sure to turn heads. Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or looking for a statement piece to wear every day, our fused glass jewelry is the perfect addition to any outfit. Shop now and experience the exceptional beauty of fused glass jewelry for yourself!

  • Cute gnome standing on a mushroom smelling a flower DIY unfinished wood blank, paint party project,

    by Cheryl Hendrick
    This DIY wood blank project of an adorable little gnome admiring a flower while standing on a mushroom is just waiting for you to decorate him with your favorite art supplies!
    Posted in housewarminggift

  • Flower fairies are here!

    by Cheryl Hendrick
    Flower Fairies have emerged from hiding! Handmade flower fairy dolls for display on tier trays, fairy houses, gnome homes, pixie villages, office desks, work, and anywhere else you need a whimsical distraction from! Fairies love to celebrate holidays! New fairy dolls will appear throughout the year in various seasonal holiday attire.
    Posted in broomstick, doll, flower fairy, Halloween, holidaygift, magic wand, spooky fun, tier tray, witch

  • New Holiday Coasters

    by cheryl hendrick
    Pet Themed Holiday Coasters
    Posted in Christmas, coaster, holidaygift, housewarminggift, secretsanta, winter