Ender3 Bed Level Calibration Pattern

This file is designed to help you dial in your bed level so that you can get more reliable prints every time! This file and instructions can be used with just about any FDM 3D Printer but I’ll reference the Ender3 since it is very common and that is what I am using.

Note: Patience is very important when it comes to calibration. Do not rush and make too many adjustments in a short period of time, you can end up chasing your tail this way. It is best to make a small adjustment then allow the printer to traverse 1-2 axes before making another adjustment. This process can take about 1hr.

1. Watch this generic bed leveling video for some basic tips and the paper drag test mentioned below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ED1Gxvw2Rmw

2. Perform the standard “paper drag” calibration to get to a “close” bed level.

3. Configure your slicer to use a “skirt”, set it to 3-4 loops. This will slowly draw a perimeter around the print before it starts on the actual print.

4. Slice and print the file. Run the machine with default settings.

5. Allow the machine to print the first loop of the skirt. If it sticks, Great! If not, make slight adjustments on the high/low points and try again until the first loop sticks.

6. With the first loop down, now you have a reference line to evaluate how your bed level adjustments affect the results on subsequent lines. You should be able to rub your finger over the printed line without it coming off the bed.

7. Allow the machine to continue printing the skirt lines. Most slicers will print skirt lines adjacent to the previous line so here you want to look at how well the lines merge. If there are small gaps between the skirt lines you need to raise the bed in those areas until the lines are clean and touching each other. If the lines are really smooshed together and rough, you need to lower the bed in those areas. Make very small adjustments one corner at a time. Be patient.

8. As the lines are printed, observe the line widths on the four sides of the bed. As the head moves from the front to back or left to right you may notice the line tapers from wide at one end to very narrow on the other. Make adjustments until all lines are clean, smooth, and the same width.

9. Once the print can be completed with all lines sticking well (not coming loose when you slide a finger over it) consider yourself calibrated!