Tune a new printer or a new filament

A new printer or a new roll of filament prints better after a few test pieces. Do them in this order: each test assumes the one before it is right.

  1. Start here: check that the first layer sticks evenly in every corner of the bed.

    First Layer Test

    Check bed leveling in every corner

    3D Printing

  2. Then check sizes: a cube with marked axes that you can measure.

    Calibration Cube

    XYZ cube with engraved axes

    3D Printing

  3. Find the temperature at which this filament looks best.

    Temperature Tower

    Find the best temperature for a filament

    3D Printing

  4. Thin towers that show stringing, to set retraction.

    Retraction Test

    Towers that reveal stringing

    3D Printing

  5. Last: find the clearance at which parts from your printer fit together.

    Tolerance Test

    Find the right clearance for your printer

    3D Printing

Write the results on the spool. The clearance you find is the number to enter in tools that have a fit or clearance setting.

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