Shrinkage Compensation Calculator

Scale your model up so it shrinks down to the right size: compensated dimensions and the scale factor to type into your slicer, per material.

Model / print at
-
Slicer scale factor
-

Compensated size = target ÷ (1 − shrinkage). To get a true 100 mm in ABS at 0.8% shrinkage, print at 100.81 mm, i.e. scale to 100.81%. Shrinkage varies with brand, part geometry and enclosure temperature, so for precision parts measure a test print of YOUR filament and feed the real percentage back in.

Frequently asked questions

How do I compensate for shrinkage?

Divide the target size by (1 − shrinkage). For a 100 mm part in ABS shrinking 0.8%, model or scale it to 100.81 mm (100.81%). Apply the scale in X and Y; Z usually shrinks less because layers cool progressively.

How much do materials shrink?

Rough figures: PLA about 0.3%, PETG 0.4%, ASA 0.7%, ABS 0.8%, nylon 1.5% and polypropylene up to about 2%. Exact shrinkage depends on the brand, the part shape and how warm the chamber is.

How do I measure my real shrinkage?

Print a calibration part (like a 100 mm bar) in the final material and orientation, let it cool fully, and measure it. Shrinkage = (designed − measured) ÷ designed × 100. Feed that percentage into this calculator for the next print.