PLA, PETG or ABS — Which Material Should You Choose for Your Cosplay?

At NMT's Workshop, every piece is made to order using 3D printing. You can choose between three materials, each with its own advantages depending on how you plan to use your prop or armor. Here is the complete guide to help you make the right choice.

🟢 PLA — The Standard Choice

PLA (Polylactic Acid) is the entry-level and most widely used material in 3D printing. It is also the easiest to print, which ensures an optimal surface finish.

Advantages

• Most affordable price
• Excellent surface finish — easy to sand and paint
• Rigid and lightweight
• Ideal for display pieces and indoor conventions
• Bio-based material (made from corn starch)

Disadvantages

• Heat-sensitive — can warp above 60°C (avoid leaving in a car in summer)
• Less impact-resistant than PETG or ABS
• Not ideal for heavy outdoor use

Best for

Convention helmets and armor, display pieces, budget-friendly orders. Recommended for 90% of cosplayers.

🔵 PETG — The Best Strength-to-Quality Ratio

PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is a mid-range material that combines the ease of PLA with increased durability. It is our recommendation for active cosplayers.

Advantages

• More impact-resistant than PLA
• Better heat tolerance (up to ~80°C)
• Slightly flexible — absorbs impacts without cracking
• Good adhesion for paints and primers
• Ideal for parts under mechanical stress

Disadvantages

• Slightly higher price than PLA
• Slightly glossier surface (to keep in mind when painting)

Best for

Armor worn during long conventions, parts with attachments or straps, cosplays you wear regularly. The best balance for a regular cosplayer.

🔴 ABS — The Most Resistant

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a technical material offering the best thermal and mechanical resistance. It is the material used in automotive and industrial parts.

Advantages

• Very impact-resistant
• Excellent heat tolerance (up to ~100°C)
• Ideal for outdoor use or extreme conditions
• Can be acetone-smoothed for an ultra-smooth finish

Disadvantages

• Slightly more challenging to print — minor variations possible
• Highest price of the three materials

Best for

Cosplays worn on film sets, outdoors, or in hot environments. Parts that need to last years under heavy use.

📊 Comparison Table

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I paint the parts myself?

Yes — all our parts are delivered in raw finish (unpainted) unless otherwise stated. PLA and PETG paint very easily with acrylic paint or spray, after a light coat of primer. ABS can be acetone-smoothed for an even smoother surface before painting.

Which material for a helmet?

We recommend PETG for helmets — it absorbs impacts better if the helmet is dropped, and handles heat better during long conventions. PLA is perfect if you plan to use it mainly for display or photoshoots.

Does the material change the dimensions?

No — dimensions remain identical regardless of the material chosen. Use our measuring guide to get pieces perfectly fitted to your body.

All our products are available in PLA, PETG, and ABS. Select your preferred material when adding to cart.