When it comes to 3D printing, support removal can be a frustrating process, especially when using traditional PLA supports on PLA prints. In my last video, I tested using PETG for full support structures on PLA prints—and let’s just say, it didn’t go over well. Using PETG for the entire support system wasted a ton of filament, and while it made support removal easier, the cost just wasn’t worth it.
This time, I’m taking a different approach: using PETG as just the interface layer for supports. The goal? Maintain the easy removal of PETG supports while reducing material waste.
Why Use PETG as an Interface Layer?
Before diving into the results, let’s talk about why PETG as an interface layer makes sense.
A support interface layer is a thin section of material that sits between your support structures and the printed model. The goal is to provide an easy-to-remove separation between the two materials. PETG, with its slightly different adhesion properties compared to PLA, can potentially allow for easier support removal while maintaining print integrity.
By using only PETG in the interface layer, we aim to:
• Reduce material waste compared to full PETG supports.
• Make support removal easier than standard PLA supports.
• Achieve a cleaner print finish with minimal post-processing.
To test this, I revisited the bottom half of the Okami mask, a detailed wolf mask from the game Okami, originally sourced from STL Flix.
The Print Setup
For this experiment, I used:
• Filament: Overture PLA (for the model) and Overture PETG (for the support interface layer).
• Printer: Bambu Lab X1 Carbon.
• Support Type: Standard tree supports with PETG interface layers.
As the print progressed, I could already see the difference. The thin PETG interface layer stood out clearly against the PLA supports, and it looked promising.
The Results: Did PETG as an Interface Work?
After printing, it was time to remove the supports—and the results were much better than full PETG supports.
✔ Support removal was significantly easier than using pure PLA supports. The PETG interface helped the supports detach cleanly, reducing the risk of damaging the print.
✔ Less filament was wasted. Full PETG supports consumed way too much material in my previous test. This time, using PETG only for the interface saved around 60 grams of filament compared to full PETG supports.
✔ The final print was cleaner. PLA supports often leave behind stubborn nubs that require sanding. The PETG interface left a smoother finish with minimal post-processing required.
✖ Print time increased. Because my printer had to switch materials 64 times, the overall print time was about 3.5 hours longer than if I had just used standard PLA supports.
PETG Interface vs. Full PETG Supports vs. PLA Supports
| Support Type | Ease of Removal | Material Waste | Print Time Increase | Print Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full PETG Supports | ✅ Easy | ❌ High | ❌ Longest | ✅ Smooth |
| PLA Supports | ❌ Harder | ✅ Low | ✅ Fastest | ❌ More Post-Processing |
| PETG Interface Layer | ✅ Easy | ✅ Lower | ❌ Medium | ✅ Smooth |
Is PETG as an Interface Worth It?
So, is it worth using PETG as an interface layer for supports? Absolutely—if you value easy support removal and a cleaner final print.
However, there are trade-offs. The additional print time might not be ideal for everyone, especially if you’re running multiple prints on a tight schedule. But if you’re working on a detailed model that requires minimal post-processing, this method is definitely worth trying.
Have you experimented with different support materials or interfaces? Let me know in the comments!