Trying first prints, not going so well (I suspect I haven't dialed the first layer down as I should have)  

RE: Trying first prints, not going so well (I suspect I haven't dialed the first layer down as I should have)

Hi HappyCerberus, 

can I ask you to look at the following post where I covered my first layer method.  there's more than just getting the level correct, you also need to get the surface clean too... this is particularly important with the Textured build plate. 
there is a temptation to throw everything at the problem...     please resist the temptation...  

With a new textured build plate, if washing doesn't work immediately, I wash again, but use the green side of a new kitchen sponge to scrub the top of the build plate, I always dry the build plate immediately after washing and use to print immediately
for PLA, i find a higher bed temperature helps too

regards Joan

RE: Trying first prints, not going so well (I suspect I haven't dialed the first layer down as I should have)

Turns out, I was just being a moron a trying to print PLA on the textured sheet instead of on the smooth one 😱 

RE: Trying first prints, not going so well (I suspect I haven't dialed the first layer down as I should have)

then Perhaps  I am a successful moron

😀   

All of these prints are PLA on textured print beds, 
Some have negligible surface contact, some have significant surface contact. 
Some of the multicolour prints were done on Prusa MMU1, Prusa MMU2, and Palette systems using Mk2 and Mk3 / Mk3S printers  (three different printers with different textured beds...)
in all cases the printbeds were washed with Dish soap and water. 

Maybe I am just lucky

Perhaps  I  am just more persistant  🙂  

but if you are happy with the smooth sheet, then you are able to print PLA. and all is well... 

Happy printing... 

when you get a bit more experience, may I suggest that you try PLA on textured again. 

regards Joan

RE: Trying first prints, not going so well (I suspect I haven't dialed the first layer down as I should have)

Interesting. My main problem was with bigger surfaces, that would jump off the plate.

I will definitely investigate further once I get a bit more experience 🙂

RE: Trying first prints, not going so well (I suspect I haven't dialed the first layer down as I should have)

in the mean time to help gain more valuable experience, try printing with 60C heatbed or 70C heatbed to improve what adhesion you have? 
🙂

regards Joan

RE: Trying first prints, not going so well (I suspect I haven't dialed the first layer down as I should have)

I had the same issue with the frog. I got it to print with putting some glue-stick on the plate.