You might be wondering what kind of surface you should use to print your models. You have a few different options, although some are more common than others.

Glass Bed

A glass bed is a smooth and rigid surface that can provide a flat and even base for your prints. Glass beds are usually made of borosilicate glass, which can withstand high temperatures and thermal shocks.

Advantages:

• It can produce a glossy finish on the bottom layer of your prints.
• It is easy to clean and maintain.
• It is durable and resistant to scratches and warping.

Disadvantages:

• It can be heavy and fragile, requiring careful handling and installation.
• It can have poor adhesion with some materials, especially PLA, requiring the use of an additional compound or adhesive layer.
• It can take longer to heat up and cool down, increasing the printing time and energy consumption.

Some of the common compounds or adhesive layers that can be used with a glass bed are:

• Blue painter’s tape: Cheap and easy. Provides good adhesion for PLA and other low-temperature materials. Can leave residue on the print surface and need frequent replacement.
• Glue stick: Simple, effective, and readily available
• Hairspray: A popular option that can create a sticky coating on the glass bed. However, it can also be messy and affect the air quality in the printing area.
• Magigoo: A specially formulated glue that can provide strong adhesion when hot and release the print when cold. However, it can be expensive and hard to find.

BuildTak

BuildTak is a thin and flexible plastic sheet that can be attached to the print bed with an adhesive backing. BuildTak is designed to offer a textured and durable surface that can work with a variety of materials.

Advantages:

• It can provide excellent adhesion for most materials, reducing the risk of warping and curling.
• It can produce a smooth and matte finish on the bottom layer of your prints.
• It can last for a long time and withstand multiple prints.

Disadvantages:

• It can be difficult to remove prints from the surface, requiring the use of a spatula or a scraper.
• It can be damaged by sharp or abrasive tools, requiring careful handling and removal.
• It can be expensive and hard to apply without bubbles or wrinkles.

PEI Sheet

PEI (Polyetherimide) is a thermoplastic polymer that can offer a smooth and glossy surface for your prints. PEI sheets are usually attached to the print bed with an adhesive backing or a magnetic base. PEI sheets are known for their high temperature resistance and chemical stability.

Advantages:

• They can provide strong adhesion for most materials when heated and easy release when cooled.
• They can produce a shiny and smooth finish on the bottom layer of your prints.
• They can be reused for many times without losing their effectiveness.

Disadvantages:

• They can be prone to scratching and denting, requiring gentle handling and cleaning.
• They can lose their adhesion over time, requiring occasional sanding or reapplication.
• They can be expensive and hard to cut or trim to fit your print bed size.