Single Layer Quality Calibration Prints

Single Layer Quality Calibration Prints

These are a collection of single-layer prints that can be used when testing print quality issues such as with flow ratio, z-offset, or pressure advance if you've noticed over or under extrusion when printing, especially of your first layer (which can greatly  impact adhesion).

Included are print profiles for 0.2mm, 0.4mm, 0.6mm and 0.8mm nozzle sizes.

Each profile includes a 50x50, 100x50, and 100x100 rounded test shape that you can quickly print with minimal filament usage. You can print them as-is, re-arrange them, or copy & paste them to cover different areas of your build plate. One way I use them is to place a 50x50 square in each corner of the build plate, as well as one right in the center. In the updated print profile there is now a preconfigured plate with this configuration.

How and when would these even be used?

If you've noticed print issues and have started tweaking settings, you may want a quick and easy way to test print quality after each change without having to go through a full print of a larger item.

If you suspect over extrusion, even with a recommended flow ratio between 0.95 and 1.05, you probably need to adjust other settings. You may find that with certain filaments, build plates, temperatures, or various environmental factors that your setup requires a flow ratio outside of this range or a change to your z-offset or pressure advance (sometimes called Factor K).

If you've already ran a flow ratio calibration test and determined that your settings need to be changed, you can then print a test square to ensure your new settings work if you've adjusted them in your slicer settings (usually by creating a custom printer filament preset).

Keep in mind that you may also get a “ripple” pattern when printing for reasons other than flow ratio. Lowering your flow ratio too much when trying to improve print quality may cause other problems. Too little flow may lead to poor layer adhesion, which makes a printed item more brittle and much easier to break. You may want to look into adjusting your z-offset or pressure advance.

Tightening loose screws behind your print nozzle, performing a bed level calibration, performing routine printer maintenance or built-in calibrations can also also impact print quality like this.

Since there are many possible causes of print issues, addressing them all is beyond the scope of this print profile. This is simply a way to quickly detect if you do have any issue and if any changes you've made have helped.

Being able to quickly print something small to test things after every change helped improve my print quality. I'm hoping these might help others when diagnosing their print issues.

Test Print Changelog:

2025-06-07, 1.1.1

• slightly updated geometry
• fixed layer issue with 0.6mm and 0.8mm models

2025-06-05, 1.1

• very subtle lip added around each shape to make it easier to remove them from print bed
• updated print profile with a new plate configuration with multiple spots covered, making it easier to initiate a more thorough test print from your phone

2025-05-29, 1.0

• initial release
• tested, functional design