Rough first layers and poor adhesion can ruin your 3D prints. These issues also cause wasted filament and wasted time. That's why it's important to properly diagnose and prevent first-layer issues. Especially if you want the best possible prints.

If you've encountered first-layer problems and have no idea how to solve them, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we'll discuss 5 common 3D printer first-layer issues and how to fix them. We also provide practical tips for achieving a flawless first layer every time. Keep reading to learn more!

Common 3D Print First Layer Issues and Fixes

First-layer issues are frustrating. Part of the issue stems from the fact that first-layer inconsistencies can be difficult to diagnose. Let's take a look at some common ways first-layer difficulties pop up and what we can do about them.

1. Rough or Uneven First Layers

When we talk about rough first layers, we're referring to a condition where the surface of the first layer is uneven, bumpy, or jagged. This rough surface can lift from the print bed. Likewise, it doesn't offer a quality base layer for the remainder of the print. You'll often hear the nozzle dragging through the filament or digging into the bed when this happens, and the surface of the print will resemble the image above.

Causes

• A nozzle that's too close to the bed.

• An extrusion flow rate that is too high.

• A print speed that is too fast.

• An uneven or non-level print surface.

• Improper first-layer temperatures.

• Worn or damaged components

Solutions

• Recalibrate the Z-offset of the printer so that the nozzle is further away from the bed.

• Slow down the first layer printing speed.

• Either manually level the print bed or use an automated bed-leveling sensor.

• Set the appropriate nozzle temperature based on the filament manufacturer's guidelines.

• Ensure that the e-steps and extrusion multiplier are properly set to avoid over-extrusion or under-extrusion.

• Make sure the print bed is clean and the nozzle is free of excess filament or clogs.

• Repair or replace worn or damaged printer components

2. 3D Printing First Layer Ripples

First layer ripples refer to undulations or wave-like patterns presenting on the surface of the first layer of a 3D print. These ripples can affect the overall appearance and quality of the print.

Causes

• A cooling fan turned on too high or activated too early can create both poor layer adhesion and rippling.

• A nozzle that is too close to the print bed can drag through the filament, causing ripples and waves.

• A printer over-extruding can create blobs or filament buildup on the nozzle or the layers of the print.

Solutions

• Turn off the cooling fan for the first few layers, or adjust the speed based on the filament manufacturer's instructions.

• Properly calibrate your Z-offset to ensure the nozzle is at the right height.

• Lower the printing speed to between 30-50 mm/s for the first layer.

• Check your extrusion multiplier and calibrate your e-steps.

3. Elephant's Foot

A common issue for first layers, especially concerning large prints, is a condition known as "elephant's foot." Essentially, this happens when the first few layers of a print melt slightly and shift downward. Often, additional plastic will push the first layer both outward and downward before it's fully cooled. This can result in a wider and distorted base, altering the dimensions of the print.

Causes

• Over-extruded filament piles onto the first layer, bulging the base layer.

• High bed temperatures prevent layers from cooling properly and cause them to spread.

Solutions

• Lower the temperature of the print bed by 5 °C until the first few layers are dimensionally accurate.

• Set the proper extrusion multiplier to avoid excessive filament accumulation.

• Adjust cooling fan temperatures to properly cool the first few layers.

• Calibrate your extruder to ensure correct e-steps and rotation distances.

4. 3D Print First Layer Warping

3D print warping, or 3D print first layer curling, is another common issue in 3D printing Warping of a print's bottom layers can cause prints to lift from the print bed during or after the printing process. This type of issue is most common in filaments like ABS and ASA, though it isn't limited to those. It can also occur in PLA and PETG depending on temperatures, filament moisture content, and environmental factors.

Causes

• Filaments can shrink during rapid cooling, which can lead to deformations.

• Uneven temperatures on the print bed surface can cause uneven cooling of the material.

• Printing at high accelerations or high speeds can prevent proper adhesion of the printed material to the print bed.

• A cooling fan that activates too soon or at too high a rate, particularly in the initial layers of printing, can contribute to warping.

• Dirt or oil on the print bed can prevent layers from adhering to the print bed.

Solutions

• Use a heated build plate and avoid cold environments.

• Enable a draft shield or use a print enclosure for finicky filaments.

• Adjust print settings to ensure accurate temperature, printing speed, extrusion flow, etc.

• Apply an adhesive to the build plate, such as 3D printing glue stick, abs slurry, painter's tape, etc.

• Use a specially designed build plate.

5. First Layer Not Sticking

If your 3D print's first layer isn't sticking, you've likely experienced the frustration that comes with a failed print. Perhaps you've watched your print pull right off your printer's bed. Or, maybe that overnight print you were so excited about somehow became a giant pile of filament spaghetti. Whatever the case, poor first layer adhesion is a fairly common issue.

When first layer adhesion problems occur, your print may shift during the printing process. Here's what causes it, and how you can fix it:

Causes

• Dirt or oil buildup on the bed plate.

• Improper print temperature settings.

• Improperly calibrated Z-offset

• Excessive printing speeds.

• Miscellaneous mechanical issues.

• Worn or damaged printer components.

Solutions

• Thoroughly clean the build plate with dish soap and make sure there is no dust, residue, or debris. Do not touch the build plate with your fingers, as this can transfer oils onto the surface. Use gloves and/or a bed scraper to remove prints.

• Proper temperature settings should be employed based on the filament manufacturer's recommendations.

• Correctly level and adjust your printer's bed, and properly calibrate your Z-offset.

• Slow printing accelerations and layer speeds until your filament adheres properly.

• Replace worn or damaged components if you notice print inconsistencies.

• Perform regular checks of your printer's frame and motion system for excessive play.

How Do You Get a Good First Layer With Your 3D Printer?

Achieving a pristine first layer extends beyond addressing common issues like roughness or warping. Other 3D printing first layer issues, such as bubbling and stringing, can also compromise print quality. To resolve these hurdles, here are some essential tips to ensure your first layer is flawless.

Clean the Print Surface

Smooth first layers start with a clean print bed.You'll want to clean your bed regularly. Isopropyl alcohol and regular dish detergent are perfect for this purpose. Some makers suggest acetone can also be used in certain instances.

Either way, you want to remove dirt, debris, and residue from your previous prints as these can lead to potential print failures. It's also important to thoroughly wipe down the print surface between prints. If your printer's bed is damaged, you should replace it.

Automatic Bed Leveling

Many modern 3D printers, like the AnkerMake M5 3D Printer with its 7×7 auto-leveling system, are equipped with sensors that measure the bed's surface at multiple points. This feature automatically adjusts your printer's Z-axis, maintaining a consistent nozzle height for a uniform first layer.

If your printer lacks this feature, you can try manual leveling, using a piece of paper to gauge the distance between the nozzle and the bed at several points.

Use Suitable Materials and Adhesion Helpers

When printing with materials like ABS and ASA, apply a thin layer of adhesive, such as hairspray or glue stick, to the print bed to enhance adhesion and prevent many first-layer issues.

For sticky materials like TPU and PETG, use a release agent like painter's tape to avoid damage to the print surface. For PLA, which typically adheres well without complications, just ensure the bed surface is clean and level for optimal results.

Optimize First Layer Settings

You can modify your slicer settings to better suit the first layer. Here's how:

1. Increase the initial layer thickness to 105-120%

2. Reduce the first layer speed to about 50% of normal.

3. Consider raising the nozzle temperature by 5-10 °C to improve filament flow.

4. Using a raft or a brim can greatly aid adhesion and print stability.

Better First Layers Are Easy

Mastering your first layer sets the stage for successful prints. Rooting out common issues, such as rough layers, ripples, elephant's foot, warping, and poor adhesion, can improve your first layer and thereby improve your prints.

By adjusting nozzle distance, leveling the bed, optimizing print speed, and setting correct temperatures, you can get the best results from your 3D printer. It's also important to perform a first layer test once you've dialed in your settings.

Overall, getting your first layer right lays the groundwork for intricate, durable, and high-quality 3D creations.

FAQs about 3D Printing First Layer Problems

How thin should the first layer of a 3D printer be?

The first layer of a 3D printer should typically be set slightly thicker than subsequent layers. A common recommendation is around 0.16 to 0.30 mm when using a 0.4 mm nozzle. However, this can vary depending on several factors.

What speed should I print the first layer?

A common recommendation is to print the first layer at around 30-50% of the regular print speed. However, the specific speed is dependent on the printer model and the filament type. A good safe bet is between 30 and 50 mm/s, though this will vary for every printer.

Is thicker first layer height stronger?

No. Print strength is usually indicated by the infill percentage, not the first layer thickness. In fact, thicker layers-or over-extruded layers-can potentially lead to issues like poor bed adhesion and print failures.

Why is my PLA not sticking on the first layer?

Failed adhesion can occur due to numerous factors, but one of the most common is a dirty print bed. Make sure to clean your printer's bed with dish soap or isopropyl alcohol if you notice your prints aren't sticking. Additionally, check that the bed is level and the nozzle is at the correct height.