Materials

What Materials We Use – And Why

At Potivio, we don’t just make plant pots — we craft design-forward pieces using modern, sustainable materials. Our products are made from PLA (Polylactic Acid) and PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol-modified), two advanced materials chosen for their performance, eco-conscious footprint, and compatibility with precision 3D printing.

These aren’t mass-produced plastic molds — they’re carefully printed, layer by layer, using premium materials. Here’s why we use PLA and PETG, and why our products may cost more than standard plastic alternatives.

PLA – Plant-Based, Designer-Focused

Where we use it:
PLA is our core material for most indoor pots and vases.

What is PLA?
PLA is a biodegradable, plant-based plastic made from renewable sources like corn starch and sugarcane. It’s one of the cleanest, most sustainable materials in the 3D printing world.

Why we use PLA:

  • Eco-Friendly: Unlike petroleum-based plastics, PLA is renewable, biodegradable (under industrial conditions), and compostable.

  • Refined Texture: PLA allows for a smooth, modern matte finish that complements interior décor beautifully.

  • Safe for Indoor Use: It’s non-toxic and ideal for use in homes, apartments, or workspaces.

  • Custom Craftsmanship: PLA allows us to print each design in-house with detail and accuracy — supporting local production and reduced carbon impact.

Why it costs more than regular plastic:
PLA is more expensive to produce than standard injection-molded plastics. It’s made from agricultural materials, not oil, and it takes significantly longer to print (some pieces take up to 12 hours or more). Additionally, 3D printing each item individually — rather than mass-producing them in a mold — increases the cost, but ensures higher design quality and less environmental waste.

PETG – Durable, Resilient, and Water-Resistant

Where we use it:
PETG is used in designs that require more strength, flexibility, or heat resistance — such as saucers or items placed near sunlight.

What is PETG?
PETG is a glycol-modified version of the plastic used in food-grade packaging. It’s fully recyclable, durable, and great for outdoor or high-humidity environments.

Why we use PETG:

  • UV & Heat Resistant: Better suited to sunlit areas than PLA.

  • Water Tolerant: Ideal for parts exposed to moisture or regular watering.

  • Tough & Flexible: Withstands wear and tear without cracking.

  • Recyclable: Can be recycled at most facilities, contributing to circular economy practices.

Why it costs more than regular plastic:
PETG is a specialty-grade filament that performs far better than cheap plastics. It’s used in demanding industries (like food and medical) for a reason — and it’s also slower and more complex to print. Combined with local production and our detailed 3D designs, this means a slightly higher price tag, but one that reflects genuine durability and quality.

Why Our Pots Cost More — And Why They’re Worth It

Unlike mass-produced pots made from low-cost plastic molds, every Potivio piece is individually 3D printed using premium materials that take hours to create. Our approach reduces waste, supports local production, and ensures an artistic level of finish you won’t find in bulk-made alternatives.

What you're paying for:

  • ✅ Sustainable materials (PLA and PETG)

  • ✅ Precision 3D printing

  • ✅ Unique, design-led forms

  • ✅ Local, small-batch production

  • ✅ Long-lasting indoor performance

We believe that quality design, sustainability, and craftsmanship should be accessible — not disposable. That’s the value behind every Potivio product.