A perfect first layer determines print success. Three factors matter: a level bed, the right nozzle-to-bed distance, and correct first-layer settings. Master these and 90% of print failures disappear.
Bed Leveling
An unlevel bed causes one side to be too close (extrusion is thin and transparent) and the other too far (filament doesn’t stick). Level your bed using a piece of paper — you should feel slight resistance when sliding it between the nozzle and bed at every corner.
Nozzle-to-Bed Distance
- Too close: Extrusion is flattened, transparent, or the nozzle scrapes the bed
- Correct: Lines are slightly squished but still round, adjacent lines fuse without gaps
- Too far: Lines are round with gaps between them, filament doesn’t stick
First Layer Settings
| Setting | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Speed | 15-20mm/s |
| Height | 0.24-0.28mm |
| Width | 120-150% of nozzle diameter |
| Temperature | Same as normal (or +5°C) |
| Cooling fan | 0-30% |
Surface Preparation
- PEI sheet: Wipe with isopropyl alcohol before every print
- Glass: Apply thin layer of washable glue stick
- Textured PEI: Clean with dish soap and water weekly
Individual results depend on your printer, environment and application.