3D print failure diagnostic

Find my failed print in 30 seconds.

Pick the visible symptom, add material and machine context, then run one proof test before changing the whole profile.

Choose symptom Open checklist + test STLs

PETG problem? Pick the failure first. Run the matching test path before retuning temperature, retraction, fan, and bed adhesion together.

PETG stringing Glossy hairs or nozzle buildup Bambu A1 PETG A1 stringing with Orca/Bambu profiles Too stuck to PEI PETG welds to textured or smooth PEI Corners lifting PETG warping or first-layer release

First test before theory One setting per branch No profile reset unless proven

Stringing / oozing live path

Print the two-tower test before changing three slicer settings.

Use the same spool and profile. If the hairs shrink after one change, keep that value. If they do not, switch branch instead of stacking retraction, heat, and drying together.

Lower temperature 5 CStop if walls turn dull, weak, or brittle.
Then tune retractionDirect drive 0.4-1.2 mm; Bowden 3-6 mm.
Dry only if the tower proves itRough fuzz, popping, or bubbles point to moisture.

PETG in OrcaSlicer? Use this narrower path if the hairs are glossy, the nozzle collects PETG, or the same profile prints PLA cleanly.

Open PETG / Orca path Check PETG baseline

Download two-tower STL Open full guide

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First print blocker Poor First Layer Fix Print the five-patch test before changing flow or temperature Klipper shutdown Klipper MCU Shutdown Fix Match the exact error text before reflashing or buying parts Blob at seam Z Seam Blob Fix Move the seam first, then tune pressure or restart Stringing / hairs 3D Print Stringing Fix Run the two-tower test before stacking retraction Plate damage risk PETG Sticking Too Hard To PEI Cool fully, then run the PETG release patch

Step 1

Tap the failure pattern that looks closest.

Not exact is okay. The next card will route the test.

Step 2

Add context only if it changes the path.

Open checklist

Machine Material Slicer / firmware Recent change

Step 3: do this next

Stringing / oozing

Open exact fix Download test STL

Likely culprit: Fine hairs usually come from a warm or wet filament profile before they come from a broken printer.
Do this first: Lower nozzle temperature 5 C after checking filament dryness.
Touch one knob: Nozzle temperature: -5 C.
Proof print: A two-tower retraction test with the same spool and profile.

Shortest path

Check the visible symptom.
Run one small proof test.
Change one variable.

If the test says...

If it improves Save the one changed value and verify on a normal part. If nothing changes Stop tuning that knob and switch branch.

Diagnostic plan

Parameter range: Nozzle temperature: -5 C steps; direct drive retraction 0.4-1.2 mm.
Test model: Stringing two-tower test
Good result: Hairs shrink while walls stay strong.
Bad result: Switch branch instead of stacking settings.

After the proof print Got a clear before / after or a dead end?

Send the symptom, material, one setting you changed, and two photos. That is the kind of case that improves the library.

Submit the tested case

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accessory decision 3 pages comparison 3 pages filament settings 8 pages klipper error 8 pages printer fit 7 pages slicer calibration 8 pages symptom fix 13 pages