Let's talk 3D printing gear that actually delivers. These are the filaments, tools, and accessories I've put to the test on my own printer — and they've earned a permanent spot on my workbench. Buying local would be ideal, but specialty 3D printing supplies just aren't on shelves around here. So I've turned to trusted online sources instead. I'll update this page whenever I find something worth sharing. Quick transparency: a few links are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you check them out — absolutely no extra cost to you. Happy printing. Here's my current lineup of 3D printing essentials!
After about 2 years of research I went with the beginner friendly Bambu labs A1 Mini and then a week later got the A1. The prices range from $419 CAD to $3,289 CAD for basic setups. They often have great sales for example at the time of posting this the A1 Mini is on sale for $269 from $419.
The Creality Ender-3 V3 SE was in the top 3 when I was researching for my first 3d Printer. It is affordable starting from $269 CAD. Beginner-friendly 3D printer featuring automatic leveling, a direct drive extruder, and high-speed printing. It offers a 220x220x250mm build volume, dual Z-axis for stability, and simple 3-step assembly.
The Centauri Carbon is regarded as a dependable, budget-friendly 3D printer. Prices start at $546 CAD. It functions well, making it a great option for users looking for an enclosed, capable machine without a high cost. It's a solid choice for those interested in high-speed, multi-color, or varied filament printing.
I am always trying new filaments but these are a few that I get all the time. Check out the filament page for my full collection.
Elegoo PLA+ Works great for my projects that I like to paint. The finish is buttery smooth compared to the other filaments that can be shiny.
I get this pack a few times a year as it is a great deal.
Reliable, easy, and smooth — SUNLU PLA filament works beautifully for beginners and pros alike.
Once every 6 months or so I grab one of these 12 packs, it's a great deal and I am ready to print almost anything.
Kingroon Triple Colour Silk PLA. It is a really solid pick for that gorgeous, shimmery look on a budget. The colour transitions are beautiful, for artistic, show-off pieces (think vases, or ornaments).
I get this pack when I can't make up my mind on single rolls.
Gratkit Matte filaments are beautiful to print with. These printed beautifully with no issues, great bed adhesion, no stringing and beautiful subtle colour shifts with a faint pearlescent shimmer.
I'm constantly testing out new tools and accessories for my 3D printing setup, but these are the ones I come back to again and again. Head over to my tools and accessories page to see everything I keep in my craft space.
BIQU Double Side Textured PEI: One of the most popular choices. The textured surface provides excellent grip and leaves a matte, textured finish on the bottom of your print. It works great for most materials, though TPU can sometimes stick too well.
Compatible with Bambu-Lab X1C, X1E, P1P, P1S, A1 3d printers
I should mention that I print a ton of my own storage solutions these days—having printers definitely helps with that. But every so often, you hit a point where it's actually cheaper and smarter to just buy something instead. This particular storage item was a Christmas gift, and honestly, I'm so thankful for it.
Here's a tip I learned the hard way: always reach for a plastic scraper to clean your build plates. They keep your surface scratch-free and useful for removing finished projects. Just remember to let your bed cool down completely first—a hot plate will melt plastic scrapers faster than you think.
An electric screwdriver is one of those tools I didn't know I needed until I had one. I use it to take apart my printer for maintenance, swap out nozzles, tighten loose screws on the frame, and open up filament spool holders. It saves so much time and wrist strain compared to doing everything by hand. Just keep the torque low so you don't strip anything.