The 3D printing shortcut hiding in your settings menu is Ironing. Learn where to find it, the best starter settings, when to use it, and how to get smoother top layers without sanding. Affiliate Disclosure: Some links below are affiliate links. If you click and purchase, I may earn a commission at no extra cost […]
Discover the $15 tool every 3D printer owner needs. Learn how digital calipers improve E-step calibration, filament flow, and dimensional accuracy for perfect prints. The most essential tool every 3D printer owner should own for under $15 is a pair of Digital Calipers. Unlike standard rulers, digital calipers provide the 0.01 mm precision necessary for
Under-extrusion is when your printer lays down less plastic than it should—so prints look thin, weak, or “see-through.” The good news: most under-extrusion problems are fixable without replacing parts. In fact, the most common causes are calibration drift, filament drag, partial clogs, temperature mismatch, and slicer flow settings. Use this quick path: If you need
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
To stop 3D print warping, ensure the print bed is perfectly leveled and cleaned with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils. For PLA, use a bed temperature of 60°C; for PETG, 70-80°C; and for ABS, 100-110°C with an enclosure. Applying a thin layer of adhesive, such as glue stick or specialized bed weld, and utilizing a
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
Disclosure This post contains affiliate links for Creality, 3DMakerpro, and HONG KONG CHAORONG CO., LIMITED. If you click these links and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I also feature COEX filament, which supports the site through the provided partner link. The Secret to Perfect First
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
A clogged 3D printer nozzle can quickly ruin a print and put your project on hold. Even if you have never tackled nozzle maintenance before, you can unclog it quickly with some easy steps. This guide breaks down the fastest and safest way to unclog your nozzle, outlines essential tips based on my own hands-on
