When To Use A Brim In 3D Printing

Using a brim in 3D printing can be a useful technique for improving the adhesion of your object to the print bed. This can be especially helpful when printing with materials that tend to warp or lift during the printing process, such as certain types of filament or high-temperature materials. In these cases, a brim can provide additional support to the base of your object, helping to keep it in place during the printing process.

A brim is a flat layer of extruded plastic that extends around the base of your object also called "Mickey Mouse Ears". It is typically about the same thickness as the first layer of your object, and it is added to the print bed before the object itself is printed. This creates a solid foundation for your object to build upon, which can help to improve the overall quality of your print.

There are a few key situations where using a brim can be especially beneficial. For example, if you are printing a small object that has a tendency to lift or warp during the printing process, a brim can provide additional support to help keep the object in place. This can be especially helpful for objects with a complex shape or a large overhang, as these can be more susceptible to warping or lifting.

Additionally, a brim can also be helpful when printing on a print bed that is not perfectly level or smooth. In these cases, a brim can help to create a flat, even surface for your object to build upon, which can improve the overall accuracy of your print.

Overall, using a brim in 3D printing can be a useful technique for improving the adhesion and stability of your object. It can be especially helpful when printing with materials that tend to warp or lift, or when printing on a print bed that is not perfectly level. To add a brim to your print, simply enable the brim option in your 3D printing software, and let the printer do the rest.