How to Make the Perfect 3D Print First Layer | Complete Guide

The 3D print first layer is a crucial element that plays a major role in the overall quality and accuracy of the finished product.

In this article, we will delve into the importance of the 3D printing first layer and provide tips for achieving a perfect first layer on your 3D prints.

We will cover topics such as bed leveling, bed surface selection, temperature settings, slicer settings, filament quality, and flow rate. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your 3D prints have a strong and stable foundation, resulting in better quality and more accurate prints.

What is 3D print first layer? Why is important for 3D printing?

The 3D printing first layer refers to the layer of material that is extruded onto the bed or build plate of a 3D printer first.

This layer is important because:

• It serves as the foundation for the rest of the print and needs to properly adhere to the bed in order to ensure the stability and accuracy of the print.
• It is the layer that is most visible on the finished print. If the first layer is poorly printed, it can affect the overall appearance and quality of the finished print. In addition, problems with the first layer can cause issues with the rest of the print, such as warping or misalignment.

For these reasons, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the first layer when 3D printing. By ensuring that the first layer is properly adhered to the bed and is well-formed, you can improve the overall quality and accuracy of your 3D prints.

The common 3D printing first layer problems

Unfortunately, there are several common problems that can occur with the first layer that can affect the quality of the print.

#1. 3D printing first layer ripples

#2. 3D printer first layer not sticking

#3. 3D print first layer curling

#4. 3D printer first layer rough

#5. 3D print gaps in first layer

By identifying and addressing these common first layer problems, you can improve the quality and accuracy of your 3D prints. By taking the time to carefully set up and calibrate your printer and following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can achieve perfect first layers and better quality prints.

How to make 3D printing first layer perfect?

To avoid 3D printing first layer problems occurring in your 3D printing project, it's very necessary to learn how to make perfect the first layer now.

There are several factors that can affect the quality of the first layer of a 3D print. Here are some tips to help you achieve a perfect first layer:

Tip 1. Make sure the bed is level

Before starting the print, use a level to ensure that the bed is evenly and properly leveled. An uneven bed can cause the first layer to print poorly. Most 3D printers offer automatic leveling features, such as Creality 3D printers. And you can use BL-TOUCH automatic leveling kit if your 3D printer doesn't have it.

Tip 2. Use the right bed surface

Different materials and printing techniques require different bed surfaces. For example, materials like ABS and PETG may require a bed with a textured surface or a bed covered with a layer of blue painter's tape.

Tip 3. Use the correct bed temperature

The bed temperature should be set correctly for the material you are using. If the bed is too cold, the 3D print may not stick well, resulting in a poorly printed first layer.

Tip 4. Use the correct nozzle temperature

The nozzle temperature should also be set correctly for the material you are using. If the nozzle temperature is too low, the material may not flow properly, leading to a poorly printed first layer.

Tip 5. Check your slicer settings

Make sure your slicer is set up correctly for the material and printer you are using. The slicer settings can have a significant impact on the quality of the first layer.

Tip 6. Check your filament

Make sure your filament is of good quality and free of knots or other imperfections.

Tip 7. Use the right amount of flow

Too much flow can cause the material to ooze and result in a poorly printed first layer. On the other hand, too little flow can cause the material to be under-extruded and result in a poorly printed first layer.

Here comes the good news, you can use 3D printing software to adjust all settings at once NOW even on your mobile phone! This software is called Creality Cloud!

Creality Cloud App is a software application that is used to control and manage Creality 3D printers. It allows users to remotely control and monitor their 3D printers, as well as access and download a variety of 3D printing resources and materials.

The Creality Cloud App is available for both Android and iOS devices and is compatible with a range of Creality 3D printers, including the CR-10, Ender 3, and Ender 5.

As you see below screenshot of how to set the first layer setting to make it perfect using Creality Cloud. It's very easy to use, and friendly for beginners.

Some of the features of the Creality Cloud App include:

• Remote control: The app allows users to remotely control their 3D printer, including starting, pausing, and canceling prints.
• Real-time monitoring: The app provides real-time monitoring of the 3D printer, including the print status, temperature, and other parameters.
• File management: The app allows users to upload and manage 3D printing files, including converting STL file to G-Code.
• Material library: The app provides access to a library of 3D printing materials, including filament types and colors.
• Community resources: The app includes access to a community of 3D printing enthusiasts, including forums, tutorials, and other resources.

By using the Creality Cloud App, users can easily control and manage their 3D printers, access a variety of resources and materials, and connect with other 3D printing enthusiasts.