Source: Ember Prototypes & Apurv Das

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First Impression

These Customizable PEI Plates Transfer Patterns to Prints

by Adam Kohut
Published Mar 6, 2024

Customized in a special process with either a thick or thin coating, Ember Prototypes’s build plates can serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.

Ember Prototypes is offering PEI plates with custom textures, allowing users to transfer patterns to their prints – or just liven up their 3D printer.

Available for Bambu Lab X1, P1, A1 and Prusa MK series 3D printers, the plates are adorned with a user-uploaded image via a special (and secret) coating process that applies the user’s choice of a thin or thick coating. “No etching, engraving or damage of the underlying PEI occurs,” Ember Prototypes told All3DP.

A thin coating, Ember Prototypes says, is best suited for “content creation, time lapses and cool factor”. A thick coating, on the other hand, is best for transferring patterns or logos to prints’ first layers.

There are a few requirements for designs (line art only, and a one-inch margin around the plate, being two examples), as well as resolution requirements. These are clearly outlined on Ember Prototypes’ website, so there shouldn’t be much room for confusion on that end. A word to the wise, however: those looking to transfer patterns to their prints should stick to darker-colored filaments to achieve best results.

Preorders open on March 7, when you can snag an engraved build plate of your own for $49.99, with bulk orders earning discounts (two for 10% off, etc.). For full details, check out Ember Prototypes’ website.

Correction March 7, 2024: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the build plates are laser engraved.

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About the Author:

Adam Kohut

Adam is a contributing writer who joined All3DP in 2022 and has more than a decade in tech journalism. He has written for UltiMaker, Protolabs, and many other (tech) startups and corporates worldwide.

License: The text of "These Customizable PEI Plates Transfer Patterns to Prints" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.