At OBJ STUDIO, every piece we create begins long before it takes shape on our printers. The story starts in the fields — with plants like corn and sugarcane, rising toward the sun and storing energy deep within their roots and stems. These plants are not only part of the natural cycle; they are the foundation of a new way of making.
The Transformation of Plants into PLA
The process begins by extracting starch from these renewable crops. This starch is broken down into sugars, which are gently fermented by natural microbes. Through this transformation, lactic acid is born — a simple molecule that carries incredible potential.
Molecule by molecule, lactic acid is linked together into long chains, creating a bioplastic known as PLA (Polylactic Acid). Unlike traditional plastics made from fossil fuels, PLA is derived from resources that can be replenished with each growing season, offering a more responsible path forward.
Turning Resin into Filament
Once the PLA resin is formed, it is melted and extruded into thin, consistent strands — filament. This filament is the thread of our craft. Each spool carries within it the energy of the plants and the possibility of transformation.
When placed into our 3D printers, the filament is guided layer by layer into vessels, trays, and objects for the home. Precision meets creativity, and technology aligns with sustainability to shape forms that are both functional and poetic.
Why PLA Matters
PLA filament is not only biobased but also carries a lighter environmental footprint than conventional plastics. During its life cycle, PLA production emits fewer greenhouse gases and consumes less energy. And under the right conditions, it can return to the earth through industrial composting — closing the loop between nature and design.
Design in Harmony with Nature
Every object we create with PLA is a reminder that design can hold purpose. A tray becomes a place for ritual. A vase becomes a vessel for memory. Each piece is both a product of modern technology and a continuation of nature’s cycle.
At OBJ STUDIO, we believe beauty and responsibility belong together. Through PLA filament, we are shaping tomorrow with plants — creating sustainable designs that honor the earth while elevating the spaces we call home.