First layer not sticking? A quick checklist

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  • jacques
    31 October 2026 at 19:55 #234

    Most print failures start in the first layer. Work through this list in order:

    1. Clean the bed. Fingerprints and oils are the number one cause. Wipe with isopropyl alcohol (IPA), or wash a PEI sheet with warm water and dish soap.
    2. Level or run the mesh. Re-level the bed, or run auto bed levelling, with the bed and nozzle at printing temperature.
    3. Adjust the Z offset. The first line should be slightly squished and touch the line next to it. Too high gives round, loose lines. Too low gives rough, scraped lines.
    4. Check temperatures. As a rough guide, PLA bed 55 to 60 °C, PETG 70 to 85 °C. Check your filament spool for its recommended range.
    5. Slow down the first layer. Around 20 to 30 mm/s helps, and keep the part cooling fan off for the first layer.
    6. Use a brim for small or tall parts.

    Still stuck? Reply with your printer, filament, slicer and a photo of the first layer, and someone will help.

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