The 3D print bed adhesion guide shows you the right bed temperature, surface, first layer settings, and tips for every common filament. Click any row or select a filament for detailed settings.
3D Print Bed Adhesion by Material
Bed adhesion is one of the most common sources of failed 3D prints. Too little adhesion and parts detach mid-print. Too much and you risk cracking the glass bed or tearing the print surface. The right combination of bed temperature, surface material, and first layer settings is different for every filament.
PEI sheets
PEI (polyetherimide) is the most popular print surface because it works for most filaments, releases prints easily when cooled, and lasts for hundreds of prints. However, PETG bonds too aggressively to bare PEI — always use a thin glue stick layer as a release agent. ASA and ABS also do well on PEI with proper enclosure temperatures.
First layer height and squish
The first layer should be slightly flattened ("squished") into the bed for adhesion. Use 0.1-0.2mm first layer height for PLA, slightly more (0.2-0.25mm) for PETG to prevent over-bonding. For flexible materials, slightly raise the z-offset to prevent the part from bonding permanently to the surface. Level your bed carefully — the first layer is the foundation for everything above it.
When to use a brim
Use a brim (5-15mm extension around the base of your print) for tall narrow parts, warping-prone materials (ABS, ASA, PC, Nylon), and any part with small contact area. The brim dramatically increases adhesion without affecting the actual part. Remove with flush cutters after printing.
FAQ
What is the best 3D print bed surface?
PEI (polyetherimide) is the best all-around print surface for most filaments. It grips well when hot and releases when cool. Garolite (FR4) is best for Nylon and PETG. Glass is inexpensive and works well with hairspray or glue stick. PEI flexible spring steel sheets are the current gold standard for convenience.
Why does my first layer not stick?
Common causes: bed not level (too far from nozzle), bed temperature too low, dirty surface (clean with IPA), incorrect z-offset, printing speed too fast on first layer. Reduce first layer speed to 15-25mm/s and ensure the nozzle is close enough to slightly flatten the filament onto the bed.
Why does PETG bond too hard to my PEI bed?
PETG bonds extremely aggressively to bare PEI and can tear the surface off when removing the print. Always apply a thin layer of glue stick (Elmer's/Pritt) to your PEI before printing PETG. This acts as a release agent and prevents permanent bonding.
Does bed temperature affect adhesion much?
Yes — bed temperature is one of the most important adhesion factors. PLA at 45°C sticks better than at room temperature. ABS without 100°C+ bed temperature warps badly. Each filament has an optimal range. Too high can also cause over-adhesion (especially PETG on PEI).
Is this guide free?
Yes, completely free and no signup required.