More like this:
(click here)

Makerspace, Calibrating Your 3D Printer

Proper calibration is the key to high-quality, consistent 3D prints. Whether you're new to 3D printing or upgrading your setup, knowing how to dial in your printer will save time and material. This tutorial explains how to calibrate your 3D printer for the best results.

Step 1: Level the Print Bed

  • Home the printer (auto home).
  • Disable steppers and manually move the nozzle to all four corners.
  • Use the paper method: slide a sheet of paper between the nozzle and bed — it should drag slightly.
  • Repeat for all corners and center. Adjust knobs as needed.
  • Consider installing auto bed leveling if available (e.g., BLTouch).

Step 2: Set the Correct Nozzle Height (Z-Offset)

The Z-offset determines how close the nozzle gets to the bed.

  • Too close: filament won’t extrude properly.
  • Too far: weak bed adhesion.

Adjust in firmware or touchscreen settings until the first layer is smooth and consistent.

Step 3: Calibrate E-Steps (Extruder Steps/mm)

  1. Mark 100mm on your filament with a ruler.
  2. Send a command to extrude 100mm.
  3. Measure actual amount extruded. If less/more, adjust E-steps accordingly.
M92 E ; set new value
    M500 ; save to EEPROM

Step 4: Check and Adjust Flow Rate

Print a single-wall cube and measure wall thickness. Adjust flow rate until the measured wall matches expected thickness (e.g., 0.4mm for a 0.4mm nozzle).

Step 5: PID Tune the Hotend

PIDs keep temperature stable. Use your printer’s firmware:

M303 E0 S200 C8

This tunes the hotend to 200°C over 8 cycles. Save with M500.

Step 6: Print Temperature Tower

Use a temperature tower model to find the best print temperature for your filament. Choose the level with the smoothest walls and minimal stringing.

Step 7: Calibrate Retraction

  • Print a retraction test to fine-tune stringing settings.
  • Adjust retraction distance and speed until stringing is eliminated.

Step 8: Tune Print Speed

Lower speeds improve quality, especially for small models. Start with 50mm/s for standard prints and increase gradually.

Step 9: Test Bed Adhesion

  • Use a first-layer calibration square or a full-bed test print.
  • Apply glue stick or use PEI/magnetic plates for better grip.

Next Steps

Once your printer is calibrated, save your settings to EEPROM and back them up. Regular calibration improves print reliability and reduces failed prints, saving both time and money!