Raft Settings

What is a Raft?

A raft is a horizontal platform printed between the build plate and your model. It provides a larger surface area for bed adhesion and can help with warping issues. The model is printed on top of the raft and separated after printing.

Raft Layers

Parameter: raft_layers
Unit: Layers
Default: 0 (disabled)
Description: Number of raft layers beneath the model. Set to 1+ to enable raft.

Raft Contact Z Distance

Parameter: raft_contact_distance
Unit: mm
Default: 0.1mm
Description: Gap between raft top surface and model first layer. Controls how easily the raft separates.

Raft Expansion

Parameter: raft_expansion
Unit: mm
Default: 1.5mm
Description: How far the raft extends beyond the model footprint.

Raft First Layer Density

Parameter: raft_first_layer_density
Unit: %
Default: 90%
Description: Density of the bottom raft layer that contacts the build plate.

Raft First Layer Expansion

Parameter: raft_first_layer_expansion
Unit: mm
Description: Additional expansion for the first raft layer for better bed adhesion.

When to Use a Raft

Scenario	Use Raft?	Alternative
Small contact area	Yes	Brim
Warping materials (ABS)	Yes	Enclosure, brim
Uneven bed	Yes	Mesh bed leveling
Poor bed adhesion	Maybe	Brim, glue stick
Tall thin models	Yes	Brim + supports

Raft vs Brim vs Skirt

Feature	Raft	Brim	Skirt
Purpose	Full adhesion platform	Edge adhesion	Prime nozzle
Material Use	High	Low	Very low
Removal	Peel off bottom	Cut/snap off edge	Not attached
Bottom Surface	Textured	Normal	Normal
Best For	Warping, small parts	Corners lifting	All prints

Troubleshooting

Problem	Cause	Solution
Raft won't stick	Too fast, bad adhesion	Slower first layer, clean bed
Model stuck to raft	Z distance too small	Increase contact distance
Raft falls apart	Layers too thin	Increase raft layer count
Model bottom rough	Normal raft behavior	Sand or use brim instead

Tip: Most modern printers with good bed adhesion don't need rafts. Try a brim first, which uses less material and leaves a better bottom surface.