Please help with some first layer issues!  

Please help with some first layer issues!

Hi!

I have an MK3 kit which successfully passed the self-test multiple times and "XYZ calibration ok. X/Y axes are perpendicular. Congratulations!" Have also done the temp calibration, and factory reset my printer and done it all over again.

I clean my spring steel sheet with smooth double-sided PEI sheet with 100% IPA and a sheet of Bounty paper towel between each print

I'm using white 3D Solutech PLA

Have spent a lot of time really dialing in my Live-Z adjustment.

First print was 3D Benchy and it came out great. once an print gets going, they come out great

First layer seems to have issues

1) z seems to be inconsistent. i tend to have to print at least 2-3 single-layer circles in the middle without changing anything else (first print is always stringy) and the layer will eventually get very nice, even, and smooth as i had calibrated it to be. then i start printing the thing i actually want to print.

2) even once i do the few initial prints, when it first lays down some filament or on direction changes and turns, it doesn't stick right away and curls because it "follows" the nozzle, then it finally sticks and is fine after that. the upper layers just print over the curls and doesn't look too nice, but end result is fine. i have to typically make my first layer speed 50% or less to avoid this.

any ideas/advice would be greatly appreciated! thank you!