3D Printing & Material Facts
3D Printing & PLA Facts
Many of our products are created using modern 3D printing technology. We believe in being open and transparent about the materials we use and how our products are made.
This page explains some helpful facts about PLA plastic and 3D printed products.
What is PLA?
PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a biodegradable plastic made from renewable plant sources such as corn starch or sugarcane.
It is one of the most widely used materials in 3D printing because it is:
• Strong and durable
• Lightweight
• Made from plant-based materials
• Suitable for detailed and precise printing
PLA is commonly used in many everyday items including packaging, medical devices, and food containers.
Are 3D Printed Products Food Safe?
PLA in its raw form can be used in food packaging. However, most 3D printing filaments (including ours) are not certified as food-safe materials.
There are a few reasons for this:
• Filaments may contain colour pigments and additives
• The 3D printing process creates tiny layer lines where bacteria could collect
• Home and commercial printers are not sterile manufacturing environments
For these reasons, 3D printed items are generally not officially certified for direct food contact.
Our Cookie Cutters
Our cookie cutters are designed for cutting dough or fondant only, where contact with food is brief before baking.
This type of use is considered low risk, as the dough is baked after cutting and the cutters are not used for food storage or hot food preparation.
Our cutters are intended for home baking and craft use.
Why Do 3D Printed Products Have Layer Lines?
3D printing works by building objects layer by layer, stacking thin strands of melted plastic on top of each other.
Because of this process, you may notice fine horizontal lines on the surface of some products. These are a normal and expected characteristic of 3D printed items and are not considered defects.
These layer lines are what allow us to create detailed designs and custom products that would be difficult to manufacture using traditional methods.
Heat Sensitivity of PLA
PLA plastic can soften if exposed to high temperatures.
To prevent warping or damage:
• Do not place items in the dishwasher
• Hand wash only in cool water
• Do not expose to boiling water
• Avoid leaving items in hot cars or direct sunlight
Heat may cause PLA products to soften or lose their shape.
Care Instructions
To keep your 3D printed products in the best condition:
• Hand wash only in cool water
• Do not place in the dishwasher
• Avoid exposure to heat or hot water
• Do not leave in direct sunlight or hot cars
Colour Variations
Our products are 3D printed using various PLA colours. Colours may vary depending on filament availability and may differ slightly from photos.
Handmade with Modern Technology
Each item is designed, printed, and finished by us in Australia using small-batch 3D printing. This allows us to create custom designs and personalised products that would not be possible with traditional manufacturing.
Cookie cutters should be washed before first use and are intended for cutting dough or fondant only. They are not designed for food storage, cooking, or hot food preparation.