Quality
Stringing
Also known as: stringing · hilos · telarañas · oozing · rezumado · pelos
Short definition
Stringing is the fine threads of material left between parts of a print when the nozzle oozes during non-printing travel moves.
Full definition
Prusa describes it as 'hairy prints': small strands of filament left on the model. Its three usual causes are badly tuned retraction, an over-high nozzle temperature — the material is runnier and drips on its own — and damp filament, which boils inside the nozzle and pushes material out unbidden. The right order of attack is to start with the filament (dry it), then lower the temperature in five-degree steps, and only then touch retraction. It can be removed with a heat gun or a knife, but it is better not to produce it.
Related terms
- RetractionRetraction is the movement in which the extruder pulls filament back before a non-printing travel move, so the nozzle does not ooze and leave strings.
- HygroscopicA hygroscopic material is one that absorbs moisture from the air; in a filament, that water turns to steam inside the nozzle and ruins the print.
- Filament dryingDrying filament means holding it for hours at a temperature below its softening point so absorbed water evaporates before printing.
Quality
Updated
Sources
- [1]Stringing and oozing | Prusa Knowledge BasePrusa Research · Manufacturer · accessed July 27, 2026

