Elephant Foot

Also known as: First Layer Bulge, Bottom Bulge

beginner Print Quality

When the first layer of a print bulges outward, making the base wider than designed.

Elephant foot is a defect where the bottom of a print bulges outward slightly, like an elephant’s foot. The first layer is wider than it should be.

Causes

  1. Z offset too low - Nozzle squishes first layer too much
  2. Bed too hot - Softens plastic, allows spreading
  3. First layer settings - Too much flow or too slow
  4. Weight of print - Heavy prints compress warm first layer

How to Fix

Adjust Z Offset

  • Raise Z offset slightly (less squish)
  • First layer should be flat, not over-compressed
  • Balance between adhesion and squish

Lower Bed Temperature

  • Reduce by 5-10°C
  • Still needs to stick, but less spreading

Slicer Compensation

  • Elephant Foot Compensation - Built into most slicers
  • Shrinks first layer outline by set amount
  • Start with 0.1-0.2mm

First Layer Settings

  • Reduce first layer flow (95% instead of 100%)
  • Speed up first layer slightly

When It Matters

  • Dimensional accuracy critical
  • Parts need to fit together
  • Flat bottom surfaces
  • Visible base

When to Ignore

  • Hidden bottom
  • Oversized tolerances
  • Easy to file/sand down