PETG is the sweet spot between easy PLA and strong ABS, which is why it is the go-to material for functional parts. But it has a reputation for sticking too hard and stringing too much. This guide, adapted from ANTINSKY's official notes, gives you the settings that actually work for ANTINSKY PETG filament.
What Makes PETG Different
PETG is a glycol-modified polyester that is tougher and more temperature-resistant than PLA while still printing on an open machine. It absorbs less moisture than nylon but still dislikes humid air, and its slightly viscous melt is what causes the stringing and strong adhesion people often complain about.
PETG Settings (Fast Reference)
| Setting | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Nozzle temperature | 235–250 °C |
| Bed temperature | 70–80 °C (often 75 °C) |
| Print speed | 40–60 mm/s (slower parts first) |
| Cooling fan | Low–medium; use less on lower layers |
| Retraction | Long & slow for direct drive |
Getting a Perfect First Layer
The first layer is where most PETG prints are won or lost. A common trap is using PLA-style z-offset values — PETG slightly "squishes", so you want a touch more clearance to avoid over-squishing the first layer into the plate.
- Clean the build plate with warm soapy water, then isopropyl alcohol.
- Set the z-offset a little higher than for PLA so the nozzle does not drag.
- Use a thin brim for parts with tall narrow features.
Bed Adhesion Problems: Both Directions
PETG does not always under-adhere — often it adheres too well.
| Symptom | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Not sticking | Bed too cold / dirty | Raise to 75–80 °C, clean plate |
| Sticking too hard | Over-squish / too hot | Raise z-offset slightly |
| Warping corners | Draughts | Use an enclosure or shield |
Stringing: Why It Happens and How to Stop It
Stringing in PETG is caused by molten filament leaking while the nozzle travels. The two levers are retraction and temperature. Print a retraction test tower and watch for the cleanest section.
- Lower the nozzle temperature 5–10 °C to thicken the melt.
- Tune retraction distance and speed step by step.
- Increase travel speed so the nozzle spends less time over the part.
PETG vs PLA vs ABS: Where It Fits
| Material | Strength | Heat Resistance | Ease | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PLA+ | Medium | Low | Easy | Décor, prototypes |
| PETG | High | Medium | Medium | Functional, outdoor |
| ABS | High | High | Harder | Enclosures, automotive |
| TPU | Flexible | Medium | Medium | Gaskets, dampers |
Once PETG behaves, it becomes the material you reach for again and again. Pair it with PLA+ for cosmetically perfect prints, ABS for heat, and TPU for anything that flexes — and you will have every job covered.