First Layer Tests and Z-axis Offset
I’ve replied to multiple posts in the past where people are having problems with bed adhesion, blobs-of-death on the extruder, etc, about the importance of running a first layer test to dial in that critical component when starting a print. I’m fairly new to 3D printing (1.5 years), but I’ve developed one habit that has saved me time, filament and parts. I thought some newer users might benefit from one of these, z-axis offset and first layer prints:
1) Anytime I’ve changed extruders, nozzles, print beds (basically any part involved with printing), I always run a first layer test with some PLA to determine a baseline z-axis offset. I save a set of Printer Presets with a different z-axis offset and label them something like “Creality K2 Plus 0.4 nozzle+0.03z”. So I can save the model and filament with a specific z-axis offset. I have a range of z-offsets saved going from +0.01 to +0.05 so that I can save the best setting for each project/filament.
2) I do a first layer test for each new filament type I’m going to use. I’ll sometimes re-run a first-layer print for a filament I’ve used in the past, but haven’t used in a while, to make sure things haven’t changed since I’ve last used that filament.
3) I create a filament recipe page for each filament type/brand I use that includes the z-offset along with the standard temp, flow, etc. data that works well for my setup.
4) Anytime I encounter a print problem with adhesion or filament not being laid down evenly, I re-run the first layer test.
Learning to “read” the first layer test is very easy. If you see “waves” in the print, the nozzle is too close. If the print isn’t fully attaching in some areas your obviously too far away (or you might need to clean the plate, increase bed temp, chamber temp which also might cause this). However, if you have a good looking first layer (no waves) that looks adhered to the plate, hold it up to the light. If you see pin holes, the nozzle is too far away.
Here is a photo of a PETG (clear filament) where I changed the z-offset from 0.045 to 0.050. What a difference 0.005 made.
The print I like to use is at https://www.crealitycloud.com/model-detail/first-layer-examination?source=5 It doesn’t do the entire surface, just the far outer rim and the central part of the build plate. It’s pretty quick to do as a result and has been a very reliable indicator of the entire build plate. BTW, my current set up is a K2Plus with a R3men carbon bed, a DXC2 extruder and a MicroSwiss Flowtech hot end.
Hope this helps someone!
Posted May 29, 2026, 7:50 PM UTC