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Elephant Foot Fix

Correct swollen first layers, oversized bottoms, tight holes near the bed, and rounded lower edges.

Start hereFix Z offset and bed temperature first, then use first-layer compensation or a small model chamfer for the remaining predictable expansion.

First safe actionRun the first safe check and change one variable at a time.

Proof targetA small representative test no longer shows the original symptom.

Problem, repair steps and target result for elephant foot fix — Match the failed area to the visual before changing a setting.

Repair progress0 of 7 complete

Step 1 of 7

Run the nozzle-too-close test and correct Z offset.

Visual reference while completing step 1 of elephant foot fix — Keep the problem and target visual open while you make this change.

Why this matters

Excess squish pushes material outward.

Setting or checkFirst-layer compensation

Use only after height and temperature are correct.

Expected result

Bottom edge is square.

Step 2 of 7

Return first-layer flow to the validated profile.

Visual reference while completing step 2 of elephant foot fix — Keep the problem and target visual open while you make this change.

Why this matters

Lower layers remain soft under weight.

Setting or checkBed temperature

Lower carefully without losing adhesion.

Expected result

Hole/peg fit is consistent through height.

Step 3 of 7

Reduce bed temperature in small material-safe steps after adhesion is secure.

Visual reference while completing step 3 of elephant foot fix — Keep the problem and target visual open while you make this change.

Why this matters

Too much material is deposited.

Setting or checkInitial layer flow

Avoid using excess flow for adhesion.

Expected result

Adhesion remains reliable.

Step 4 of 7

Use normal cooling timing for the material.

Visual reference while completing step 4 of elephant foot fix — Keep the problem and target visual open while you make this change.

Why this matters

Base deforms before solidifying.

Setting or checkFirst-layer compensation

Use only after height and temperature are correct.

Expected result

Compensation does not undercut the base.

Step 5 of 7

Apply slicer elephant-foot compensation conservatively.

Visual reference while completing step 5 of elephant foot fix — Keep the problem and target visual open while you make this change.

Why this matters

Sharp designed edge has no process allowance.

Setting or checkBed temperature

Lower carefully without losing adhesion.

Expected result

Bottom edge is square.

Step 6 of 7

Add a small chamfer to the model when design control is available.

Visual reference while completing step 6 of elephant foot fix — Keep the problem and target visual open while you make this change.

Why this matters

Excess squish pushes material outward.

Setting or checkInitial layer flow

Avoid using excess flow for adhesion.

Expected result

Hole/peg fit is consistent through height.

Step 7 of 7

Validate fit at the final print orientation.

Visual reference while completing step 7 of elephant foot fix — Keep the problem and target visual open while you make this change.

Why this matters

Lower layers remain soft under weight.

Setting or checkFirst-layer compensation

Use only after height and temperature are correct.

Expected result

Adhesion remains reliable.

Controlled test log

Change one variable, then record what happened

This keeps temperature, retraction, speed, mechanical, and material tests from blending together. The history stays private in this browser.

Open proof report →

No controlled tests logged yet. Record the first change before adjusting a second variable.

Do not repeat the full print yet

Prove the repair with a small test

Test modelSingle-layer five-zone test

Setup

Use the final plate, material, mesh and first-layer profile.

Pass condition

Lines join evenly in the centre and corners, with no scraping, gaps or lifting.

If it still fails

One or more zones remain loose, transparent, ridged or detached.

Recheck visual diagnosis

Complete the repair steps, run the proof test, and record the result.

Only if the proof test still fails

Next strongest repair paths

Do not stack these changes. Open one related guide based on the evidence that remains.

Visual guide for nozzle too close to the bed

First LayerNozzle Too Close to the Bed

Open this related First Layer guide when the first repair path does not fully explain the remaining symptom.

Open guide →

Visual guide for bed leveling and z offset guide

CalibrationBed Leveling and Z Offset Guide

Use this next when first-layer quality varies across the build plate.

Open guide →

Visual guide for dimensional accuracy and fit tolerance

CalibrationDimensional Accuracy and Fit Tolerance

Open this related Calibration guide when the first repair path does not fully explain the remaining symptom.

Open guide →

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