3D Printing Brim: A Complete Guide [+ Expert Tips]

Published: March 11, 2025Last Updated on: March 17, 2025

Improve your 3D print adhesion and prevent warping with Brims. Learn how Brims compare to Rafts and Skirts, their impact on CNC machining, and how to optimize them for best results.

What Is a 3D Printing Brim?

In 3D printing, a Brim is a support structure that consists of additional material layers attached to the edges of a model’s base. The primary function of a Brim is to enhance bed adhesion, preventing warping and deformation, especially when printing with shrink-prone materials like ABS and Nylon.

Unlike a Raft, which places a thick layer beneath the entire print, or a Skirt, which merely outlines the print area without touching the model, a Brim adds a thin layer of material around the base, reinforcing adhesion without significantly affecting post-processing.

Learn More: Why Adhesion Matters

Poor bed adhesion is one of the most common causes of failed 3D prints. Ensuring a strong first layer with Brims can save time and materials. Additionally, Brim settings such as width and layer count can significantly impact adhesion strength.

*3D Printing Brim vs. Raft vs. Skirt Comparison*
*Source: Unionfab*

The Purpose of a 3D Print Brim

Using a Brim provides several benefits, particularly for models with small contact areas or challenging geometries:

Enhances Adhesion: Expands the model’s footprint, ensuring better bed adhesion and reducing the likelihood of failed prints.
Prevents Warping: Reduces uneven cooling and contraction, especially for materials prone to shrinkage.
Improves Print Success Rate: Particularly useful for models with narrow bases or complex designs.
Supports Overhangs: Helps stabilize models with overhanging sections during printing.
Easy to Remove: Unlike Rafts, Brims are thin and easier to peel off without damaging the printed object.

Best Use Cases for Brim

Printing with ABS, Nylon, or PETG, which tend to warp.
Tall or thin models that may detach from the bed due to weak adhesion.
Models with narrow bases or small contact points, reducing tipping risk.
Intricate geometries where strong bed adhesion is necessary for fine details.
Printing on smooth surfaces like glass beds, which have lower adhesion properties.
Reducing print time compared to Rafts, as Brims use less material.

*3D Print with and without Brim Comparison*
*Source: Reddit.com*

3D Print Brim vs. Raft vs. Skirt

To determine when to use a Brim instead of other adhesion techniques, consider the following comparison:

Support Type	Function	Best Use Case	Ease of Removal
Brim	Increases adhesion, prevents warping	Best for warp-prone materials (e.g., ABS), models with small bases	Easy
Raft	Provides strong support, prevents warping	Ideal for large models that need extra base stability	Moderate to difficult
Skirt	Prints an outline around the object to test extrusion	General use; does not improve adhesion	No impact on print

Choosing the Right Option

For PLA, a Brim is usually unnecessary, while ABS and Nylon almost always benefit from Brims. Rafts work best when bed leveling is inconsistent or when removal of the first layer surface defects is important.

How to Optimize a 3D Printing Brim for Best Results

To maximize the benefits of using a Brim, consider the following best practices:

Adjust the Brim Width: Standard widths range between 3-8mm. A wider Brim improves adhesion but can be harder to remove.
Use the Right Layer Height: A thinner Brim (e.g., 0.1mm) is easier to remove, while a thicker one increases adhesion strength.
Optimize the Number of Brim Lines: Adjust the number of Brim outlines based on the model size and bed adhesion requirements.
Choose the Right Print Surface: Materials like PEI sheets, textured beds, or glue sticks can further enhance Brim adhesion.
Remove the Brim Carefully: Use a deburring tool or scraper to cleanly separate the Brim from the model without damage.
Consider Using a Brim with Supports: If printing models with overhangs, combining a Brim with support structures can improve print stability.

Want to optimize your printing process further? Check out Autofabx’s expert 3D printing services for tailored solutions.

Conclusion: Common Issues & Solutions

Issue	Cause	Solution
Brim is difficult to remove	Too thick or too many layers	Reduce the Brim width and layer height
Brim does not adhere well	Print bed not leveled, poor bed adhesion	Calibrate bed and use adhesion aids like glue sticks
Brim leaves residue on the model	Material sticks too much to the model base	Use a lower extrusion temperature or apply a separating agent

Get Expert 3D Printing Services with Autofabx

At Autofabx, we specialize in precision 3D printing and CNC machining solutions. Whether you need assistance with Brim optimization, material selection, or hybrid manufacturing, our team is here to help.

Read our 3D Printing Guide for expert tips!