About this video
What is 3D Print Warping?
3D print warping is one of the most frustrating issues makers face. It happens when the corners of a print lift off the build plate during printing, causing layer separation, failed prints, or distorted final pieces. Warping is especially common with materials like ABS, PETG, and nylon, but can affect PLA prints too. Understanding how to prevent warping saves time, filament, and frustration.
How Brim Ears Stop Warping
Brim ears are a specialized adhesion technique available in most slicers, including PrusaSlicer, Cura, and Bambu Studio. Unlike a traditional brim that creates a flat skirt around your entire model, brim ears add thin discs only at the corners—exactly where warping is most likely to start.
Here's how to enable them:
- Open your slicer and go to the "Other" or "Advanced" tab
- Set the brim type to "Painted"
- Click on your model to access the "Brim Ears" option
- Select "Auto Generate Points" to automatically place ears at high-stress corners
The slicer intelligently detects sharp corners and applies thin adhesion points exactly where they're needed, reducing material waste while maximizing hold.
Why Brim Ears Work Better Than Standard Brims
Traditional brims use a lot of material and can be difficult to remove cleanly. Brim ears:
- Use less filament than full brims
- Provide targeted adhesion at stress points
- Are easier to remove after printing
- Work well for high-clearance models where a full brim would interfere
This technique is particularly useful for:
- Tall, narrow prints with small footprints
- Models with sharp corners or complex geometries
- Materials prone to shrinkage and curling
Best Practices for Brim Ear Settings
- Auto Generate Points works well for most models, but you can manually add or remove points for custom placement
- Ensure your build plate is properly leveled before printing
- For extreme warping, combine brim ears with a heated enclosure or adhesive helpers like glue stick or hairspray
- Consider nozzle temperature and bed temperature adjustments if warping persists
Common Questions
Can I use brim ears with all materials?
Yes, brim ears work with PLA, PETG, ABS, and other filaments. They provide mechanical adhesion without affecting print quality.
Do brim ears affect the final print?
No, they attach only to the bottom corners and peel off cleanly without leaving marks.
How many brim ears should I use?
Auto Generate Points typically places enough for most models. Add more manually if your print has unusual geometry or shows warping tendencies.
Stop warping in its tracks—brim ears are a simple slicer setting that makes a huge difference in print success rates.
