ZIRO 3D Printer Filament, Shiny PLA Fast Gradient Color Change, Glossy Color Change by Length PLA, Fit Most FDM 3D Printers, Dimensional Accuracy +/-0.03mm, 1KG/2.2lb Spool, Earth Tone(Silk)
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AI Verdict
This 1.75mm, 1KG Earth Tone silk PLA offers fast gradient color changes and a glossy finish, suitable for FDM users prioritizing aesthetics.
This filament is a strong choice if you're specifically after that glossy, fast-changing gradient look for aesthetic prints, especially with its +/- 0.03mm accuracy. However, its silk PLA nature means it's not for high-stress parts, and some users have reported specific feeding and jamming issues that make it less of a 'set it and forget it' option for all FDM setups.
If you need stronger prints, look for a standard PLA or PLA+ filament with similar dimensional accuracy, or consider PETG for increased durability.
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Pros
- Features a fast gradient color change due to higher-cost production technology, resulting in distinct color shifts over shorter print lengths.
- Produces a shiny, glossy surface finish, giving 3D prints a luxurious appearance.
- Maintains a tight dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.03mm, contributing to more stable printing.
- Includes a resealable bag and a 5M cleaning filament, adding value and aiding in maintenance.
- Exhibits good bed adhesion and consistent extrusion for many users, reducing print failures.
- The spool design with a 2.36-inch hub hole and 7.99-inch diameter fits most FDM printers and allows for smoother feeding.
Cons
- Silk PLA, including this one, can be weaker and more prone to breakage compared to standard PLA.
- Some users report issues with filament chewing up during multi-color prints in AMS systems, potentially exposing fibrous elements.
- One user experienced consistent jamming and hardened tips in the hot end with ZIRO gradient filament, despite proper heatbreak alignment.
- The filament may leave behind residue or discoloration on printer components for some users.
- The price point is slightly higher than some alternative PLA brands.
Dimension Scores
The filament boasts a dimensional accuracy of +/- 0.03mm, which is above average for budget PLA, and users report consistent extrusion.
Many users find it prints easily with good bed adhesion and minimal stringing when settings are dialed in, but some report specific jamming or feeding issues in certain setups.
While compatible with most FDM printers and offering unique aesthetic possibilities, its silk properties limit its use for functional parts, and some users experience issues with multi-material systems.
As a silk PLA, it is inherently less durable and more brittle than standard PLA, making it less suitable for prints requiring structural integrity.
Best For
- Users creating decorative objects where visual appeal and a glossy finish are primary concerns.
- 3D printing enthusiasts looking for unique, multi-color prints without manual filament changes.
- Makers who prioritize a fast color transition in their gradient prints.
- Individuals seeking a filament that includes useful accessories like a reseal bag and cleaning filament.
Not Recommended For
- Functional parts requiring high strength or impact resistance.
- Users with AMS systems performing frequent multi-color changes, due to potential feeding issues.
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking the lowest cost per kilogram of PLA.
Watch Out For
- Silk PLA is inherently less durable than standard PLA; expect printed parts to be more fragile and susceptible to breaking.
- Some users reported filament chewing up in AMS systems during multi-color prints, specifically with many retractions, leading to potential clogs from fibrous elements.
- One user experienced a ZIRO gradient filament consistently forming a hardened tip in the hot end, causing jams even with a properly aligned heatbreak.
- A user noted ZIRO orange filament left behind residue and discoloration on their printer's hot end area.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B0D3TG8S7D |
| Size | 1KG |
| Brand | ZIRO |
| Color | Earth Tone(silk) |
| Material | Polylactic Acid |
| Item Weight | 2.2 pounds |
| Manufacturer | ZIRO |
| Item Diameter | 1.75 Millimeters |
| Material Type | Polylactic Acid |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Product Dimensions | 7.09 x 7.09 x 3.15 inches |
| Manufacturer Part Number | Z00003D-SHO-EARTH TONE |
What Buyers Say
The biggest takeaway is how much people love the look of this filament; the fast color changes and glossy finish really stand out, making prints look high-end. However, don't expect it to be a workhorse for strong parts, as its silk nature means it's more fragile. Some users have also hit snags with it jamming or causing residue, especially in multi-material setups, so be prepared to tweak your settings. The included cleaning filament and resealable bag are a nice touch that users appreciate.
“Okay, so this ZIRO silk PLA looks absolutely amazing, the colors pop and the shine is real, but man, it's not for anything you need to actually *use* and I had to mess with my settings a bit to stop it from jamming on me. Still, for a pretty desk toy, it's awesome!”
Common Praise
- The gradient color changes are quick and visually striking, making prints look unique.
- Prints come out with a shiny, glossy, 'silky' surface that looks premium.
- Users report consistent printing and good bed adhesion with recommended settings.
- The spool is wound smoothly and fits well in AMS systems for many users.
- The inclusion of a resealable bag and 5M cleaning filament is a valued extra.
- The colors are described as pretty, gorgeous, and vibrant by multiple users.
Common Complaints
- The filament can be more brittle and less strong than regular PLA, leading to fragile prints.
- Some users experienced the filament chewing up in AMS systems during multi-color prints with many retractions.
- There are reports of this gradient filament causing jams or hardened tips in the hot end for some users.
- One user noted a ZIRO orange filament left behind residue or discoloration on their printer.
- Layer adhesion can be an issue for some, though others attribute this to incorrect print settings.
Ownership Tips
- Expect prints to be more decorative than functional due to the inherent fragility of silk PLA.
- Be prepared to fine-tune retraction settings, especially if using an AMS or printing complex multi-color models, to avoid filament chewing.
- Keep the filament dry in the included resealable bag, as moisture can exacerbate stringing and print quality issues.
- The fast gradient change means smaller prints will show less color variation, while larger prints will display a fuller spectrum of the 'Earth Tone' colors.
- Consider running the included cleaning filament periodically, especially if you notice any residue or clogs after printing with this material.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recommended printing temperatures for this filament?
The manufacturer suggests a nozzle temperature range of 190-220˚C and a bed temperature of 50-60˚C. Print speeds should be between 30-90 mm/s.
Is this filament compatible with all FDM 3D printers?
Yes, it is designed to work with most FDM 3D printers on the market. The spool has a 2.36-inch hub hole and 7.99-inch diameter.
Does this filament come with any accessories?
Each 1KG spool includes a free resealable bag for storage and a 5-meter cleaning filament.
How fast does the color change happen?
This filament uses a higher-cost production technology to achieve a faster gradient color change compared to typical multi-color filaments. The exact speed depends on the model's weight and size.
Is silk PLA as strong as regular PLA?
No, silk PLA generally has lower strength and ductility compared to standard PLA, making it more suitable for aesthetic prints than functional parts.
Buying Guide
When you're looking at 3D printer filament, especially something like this ZIRO silk PLA, you need to think about what you're actually making. This isn't your everyday, super-strong plastic. It's all about the looks – that glossy finish and how the colors blend. If you need something that can take a beating, this isn't it. But if you want something that looks cool on your shelf, this is where it shines.
Dimensional Accuracy (+/- 0.03mm)
This number tells you how consistent the filament's thickness is. A smaller number like +/- 0.03mm means the filament is very uniform, which helps your printer extrude plastic smoothly and consistently, leading to fewer clogs and better-looking prints. Think of it like a perfectly round pipe for water – consistent flow.
Fast Gradient Color Change
For multi-color filaments, 'gradient' means the color shifts along the length of the spool. 'Fast' means those color changes happen more quickly, so even smaller prints will show off more of the color spectrum. If it were a 'slow' gradient, you might print an entire small object in just one color before it transitions.
Silk PLA Material
PLA is a common, easy-to-print plastic. 'Silk' refers to additives that give it a shiny, reflective finish, making prints look less like plastic and more like a polished object. The trade-off is often reduced strength compared to standard, matte PLA, so don't expect it to be as tough.
Alternatives
If you need stronger parts, search for standard PLA or PLA+ with a similar diameter. For even higher durability and heat resistance, look for PETG filament.
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