Ultimate Single Extruder Multi-Color & Multi-Material 3D Printing Guide

Inspired by Multipass Multicolor by Make Anything

Manually printing multi-color or multi-material objects is easy using the M600 command (filament change procedure).

PrusaSlicer Profile Setup

    1. Set Extruders:
        - Navigate to Printer > Extruders and set the number of extruders to 2 (or more).

    2. Modify Tool Change G-code:
          - Adjust the G-code to move the extruder and include the M600 command for filament changes. (remove G1 commands if not using wipe tower)

    3. Enable Wipe Tower (optional):
        - Navigate to Print Settings > Multiple Extruders and enable Wipe Tower
        - This allows the nozzle to stabilize pressure before resuming

Editing the Model

Any multi-level or raised model can be cut.

    1. Prepare the Model:
        - Make two cuts: one near the bottom and one near the top. Delete the middle section to separate the design.

    2. Unlock Dimensions:
        - Set the Z size of the design/top to the first layer height (0.2 mm).
        - Set the Z height of the body/bottom to the total desired thickness.

    3. Position the Design:
        - Select the design part and use the “Drop to Bed” button to ensure it is flush with the body.

        The design should be inside and flush with the body

Ordering the Parts

This is where the magic comes in.

The ordering of your parts matters!

    1. Assign Extruders:
        - Set the first part to print (e.g., the design) to Extruder 1.
        - Set the body to Extruder 2.

    2. Check the Order:
        - Ensure the parts are correctly assigned. If reversed, you will get a solid model instead of a multi-color/multi-material one.

Printing

When the pause occurs:

    1. Switch Out the Filament:
        - Replace the current filament with the new one.

    2. Manually Purge:
        - Purge the extruder to ensure the new filament flows correctly and in the right color.

    3. Resume Printing:
        - Continue the print for seamless multi-color results.

Final Checks and Quality Improvement

    1. Preview the Design:
        - The preview should show the final design with the correct color/material separations.
        - The gcode can also be inspected to view the presence of the M600 command

    2. Use a Wipe Tower:
        - A wipe tower can be used to improve quality during filament changes.

Send it, and good luck!

Other Tips

Print logo's in color by dropping a 1-2 layer slab on the bottom of the print.