Fix Filament Runout Mid-Print
Recover with a runout sensor
Most modern printers have a filament runout sensor that pauses the print at the right moment. The procedure: when paused, manually retract the remaining filament, load a new spool, push fresh filament until clean colour extrudes, then resume. The seam at the swap layer is usually invisible if colours match, or a deliberate feature if colours change.
Recover without a sensor (caught early)
If you notice the runout while the print head is still moving, hit pause immediately. Manually move the Z up 5 to 10 mm. Load fresh filament. Move Z back down and resume. The print will have a small underextruded zone at the swap point.
Recover without a sensor (caught late)
If the print continued for several layers with no extrusion, the result is usually a partial print stuck to the bed with a hollow zone. Some prints can be salvaged by stopping, cleaning the partial print, then using the slicer's 'print from layer X' feature to restart from where extrusion stopped. Often easier to start over.
M600 manual filament change
Many printers support an M600 command at a chosen layer in the slicer. This lets you plan a deliberate filament swap for colour changes or known low-spool prints. Insert M600 at the layer where you expect to run out; the printer will pause and prompt for a swap when it reaches that line.
Avoiding runout on long prints
- Weigh the spool before starting; compare to the slicer's estimated filament use
- Add a safety margin: do not start a 950 g print on a 1000 g spool unless your runout sensor is reliable
- For multi-day prints, plan deliberate filament swaps at convenient layers
- Keep a spare spool of the same colour and brand within reach for emergency swaps
Browse the range
Browse the full filament range. Buy in pairs for long-print insurance.