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Slicer settings that matter
A slicer has hundreds of settings. You need about five. Learn these and you can get a clean print — and teach students to as well — without getting lost.
Use a preset
Every slicer (Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio) ships with "Draft / Standard / Fine" presets. Start from one and change only the settings below.
The five that count
| Setting | What it does | Classroom default |
|---|---|---|
| Layer height | Thickness of each layer — lower is smoother but slower | 0.2 mm |
| Infill | How solid the inside is | 15–20% |
| Supports | Scaffolding under overhangs (peeled off after) | On only if needed |
| Build-plate adhesion | A "brim" helps prints stick and not pop off | Brim for small/tall parts |
| Print speed | Faster = quicker but rougher and more failures | Leave at preset |
Quick decisions
- Want it faster? Raise layer height to 0.3 mm and lower infill to 10%.
- Want it smoother? Drop layer height to 0.12 mm (accept a longer print).
- Print keeps detaching? Add a brim and make sure the bed is clean and level.
- Overhang looks droopy? Turn on supports, or reorient the model to sit flatter.
The #1 fix nobody mentions
Most failed prints aren't a slicer problem — they're a bed-leveling or dirty-bed problem. Level the bed and wipe it before you touch advanced settings.
A student-friendly workflow
1. Open the model in the slicer 2. Pick the "Standard 0.2mm" preset 3. Set infill to 15% 4. Add a brim if the part is small or tall 5. Click "Slice" and check the time estimate 6. Export to SD card / send to printer
Next
Ready to add circuits and code? See Classroom electronics & micro:bit.