Bambu Lab’s Chroma Canvas (Beta) vs. HueForge: A Game-Changer for Multi-Color 3D Printing?

A Fresh Contender in Filament Painting Software

When it comes to turning images into stunning multi-color 3D prints, HueForge has long been the go-to choice. Now, Bambu Lab is stepping up with their new software, Chroma Canvas, currently in closed beta.

This tool is designed to simplify the filament painting process, letting users convert digital images into layered filament prints using preset palettes. It even allows you to isolate and recolor specific details. For makers who’ve struggled with HueForge’s complexity, Chroma Canvas could be the easier entry point into multi-color 3D printing.

What’s Behind the Beta Launch?

The beta program, announced in early September 2025, invites a limited number of users to test Chroma Canvas. Applicants submit their Bambu Lab account email, experience level with multi-color printing, and agree to the company’s privacy policy.

Bambu Lab made the announcement on Reddit, encouraging a wide variety of testers to apply so they can collect diverse feedback before the full release.

Community Reactions: First User Experiences

As with any new tool, the community has opinions. Here’s what early testers and observers are saying:

• On ease of use:
  “Looks much, much easier than HueForge. Likely more limited, but much easier.”

• On competition:
  “HueForge has a monopoly right now... Bambu creating a similar software will force HueForge to improve.”

• Hands-on feedback:
  “I’ve been using it today. It’s quite good, but I don’t have HueForge to compare.”

• On licensing freedom:
  “I dislike HueForge’s restrictions on selling prints. It’s extortion. I welcome competition.”

Of course, not everyone is thrilled. A few voices suggested that Bambu should support HueForge directly instead of creating a competitor. But overall, the response shows excitement for a simpler, more flexible option.

Chroma Canvas vs. HueForge: Quick Comparison

FeatureHueForgeChroma Canvas (Beta)AvailabilityPublicly availableClosed beta, limited testersUser InterfacePowerful but complexSimplified and beginner-friendlyImage Editing ToolsEstablished grayscale slicingPreset palettes with isolation-based recoloringLicensing ConcernsRestrictions on selling printsNot yet clear (still in beta)Community RoleEstablished market leaderNew challenger with fresh energy

Why This Matters to Makers

For anyone interested in filament art, this development is big news. If you’ve hesitated to try HueForge because of its complexity, Chroma Canvas may be your chance to jump in without the steep learning curve.

And for experienced makers already using HueForge, the arrival of a competitor like Bambu Lab means one thing: faster innovation. Healthy competition often leads to better tools, improved features, and more freedom for creators.

What’s Next?

Right now, Bambu Lab hasn’t set a public release date for Chroma Canvas. They’re focused on collecting data and feedback from beta testers before opening it up to more users.

As the beta unfolds, it’s worth keeping an eye on Bambu Lab’s official announcements and community threads for updates.

Final Thoughts

Even in its early beta stage, Chroma Canvas is showing promise. With its beginner-friendly design and positive first impressions, it could quickly become a favorite tool for filament painters. Whether it eventually replaces HueForge or simply pushes it to improve, one thing is certain: multi-color 3D printing just got more exciting.