Author name: Bullwinkle

3D printer, 3D printing

How to Fix Under-Extrusion Without Buying New Parts

To fix under-extrusion without buying new parts, you must address the primary mechanical and software bottlenecks: clean the nozzle using the “cold pull” method, increase the extruder spring tension, ensure the PTFE tube is flush against the hotend, and calibrate your E-steps in the printer firmware. These adjustments ensure that the volume of plastic requested […]

3D printing

Stringing Driving You Crazy? This Quick Adjustment Solves It

Stringing usually isn’t “bad filament.” Most of the time it’s one setting that’s slightly off: retraction. Dialing it in with a quick test is the fastest way to stop those spiderweb strands without changing your whole profile. Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through my links, I may earn a commission

3D printer, 3D printing

The 2026 Filament Comparison: PLA vs. PETG vs. ABS Performance Guide

To choose between PLA, PETG, and ABS, evaluate the environmental demands of your part: PLA is the industry standard for high-detail prototypes and ease of use; PETG provides superior chemical resistance and durability for functional outdoor parts; and ABS is the preferred engineering material for high-heat applications requiring post-processing versatility. Material Tensile Strength Heat Deflection

3D printer, 3D printing

You’re Using PETG Wrong — The One Change You Need

Most PETG problems come from printing it like PLA. Fix stringing, weak layers, and messy walls with one simple adjustment. Affiliate Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products from trusted partners like Creality,

3D printer, 3D printing

Under-Extrusion Fix: E-Steps Calibration

The most overlooked 3D printing setting is E-Step calibration (Extruder Steps). While slicer settings like layer height and infill are popular topics, E-Step calibration ensures that when your slicer requests 100 mm of filament, the hardware actually delivers 100 mm. Ignoring this setting leads to chronic under-extrusion, weak layer bonding, and failed prints that are

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