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First layer calibration

Wisdom man

Member
Joined
Jul 16, 2025
Messages
6
This should be pinned somewhere honestly. The first layer should be slightly squished into the bed, you want to see it flatten a little as it lays down and not just sit on top like a noodle.
If you can see gaps between lines, you're too high. If the nozzle is dragging through the previous line or the layer looks transparent-thin, you're too low. The live adjust while a skirt is printing is how I always calibrate, nothing beats real-time feedback.

What printer are you on and did bed calibration take you forever to get right or did it click quickly?
 
My Creality CR-10 mini had a glass bed, bowden tubes, and manual bed calibration. I will never own another printer that does not have "Perfect first layer" ability! My Prusa Core One and Snapmaker U1 both have that ability. I will also always get direct drive printers - no Bowden tubes ever!
 
My Creality CR-10 mini had a glass bed, bowden tubes, and manual bed calibration. I will never own another printer that does not have "Perfect first layer" ability! My Prusa Core One and Snapmaker U1 both have that ability. I will also always get direct drive printers - no Bowden tubes ever!
Once you’ve spent enough time chasing bed leveling and Bowden quirks, a reliable first layer becomes non-negotiable. Direct drive and solid auto-leveling really do make printing a lot more enjoyable.
 
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