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Original Instructions 2015
Printing Tips
Link to article: Perfecting the First Layer
GETTING A GOOD FIRST LAYER
The first layer may be the most important layer of any
print—and perhaps the most difficult. A good first layer
is vital to the success of your print.
Qualities of a good first layer include:
• Clean (clear of debris), prepared glass
• Proper bed temperature
• Optimal first layer nozzle height (
Z-Gap, page 23
)
A good first layer adheres to the print bed, is the correct
distance from the print bed, is visibly smooth and level,
without gaps or bumps.
Here are a few tips for getting a good first layer.
• Make sure the print bed is level
• Clean—clear any debris—from the print bed and
prepare the glass for printing (
Prepare the
Print Bed, page 18
)
• Getting the first layer height dialed in is critical—see
graphic on the right. Reference
page 23
.
– If the first layer is too high and it will not stick
– If the first layer is too low it will create a valley,
and may drag the nozzle on the glass
– The first layer height is correct when the bead of
filament is flattened slightly and even
• Heat the print bed to the recommended temperature;
base upon the material being used
– If adhesion problems persist, increase bed
temperature to 80-85º C
• Increase the nozzle temperature by 10-20º C for the
first 1-3 layers to aid in adhesion
• Decrease the printing speed by 30% for the first
layer
• Print a test print to ensure good first layer adhesion
First layer height too high
First layer height too low
First layer height correct
BABYSTEPPING
Babystepping is a function that allows the user to move—
babystep—the X, Y, and Z axis during a print. This is
especially useful when tweaking the first layer height.
How to babystep:
When the print starts:
1. On the LCD panel go to Tune
2. Scroll down to Babystep Z
– Counter Clockwise = lower the nozzle
– Clockwise = raise the nozzle
Tip: Do this while the skirt outlines are printing to avoid
inconsistency in the actual printed piece.
3. Each click of the encoder is only 2.5 μm
– It may be difficult to see this movement, however,
it will begin to show as the nozzle extrudes
4. Continue to babystep until the first layer is sticking
and resembles the graphic shown above.
Link to article: Stop 3D Print Warps, Curls, and Peels
