Beginner’s Guide to 3D Printing Troubleshooting

Common causes:

• Bed not level
   
• Dirty surface
   
• Bed not hot enough
   

Fixes:

• Re-level the bed
   
• Clean with isopropyl alcohol
   
• Increase bed temperature
   
• Add a brim or raft
   

Thin strands between parts mean:

• Nozzle temp is too high
   
• Retraction settings need adjustment
   

Fixes:

• Reduce nozzle temp by 5–10°C
   
• Increase retraction distance/speed
   

Print looks weak or has gaps.

Causes:

• Clogged nozzle
   
• Poor filament
   
• Incorrect flow rate
   

Fix:

• Clean or replace nozzle
   
• Use high-quality filament
   
• Increase flow by 5–10%
   

This means the printer lost alignment.

Causes:

• Loose belts
   
• Obstructions
   
• Stepper motor issues
   

Fixes:

• Tighten belts
   
• Remove debris
   
• Reduce print speed
   

Cornes peel up from the bed.

Fixes:

• Use a heated bed
   
• Add skirt/brim
   
• Increase bed temp
   
• Use an enclosure for ABS prints
   

We offer remote and onsite 3D printing consulting.

Return to Knowledge Base >