One rising path
After the bottom is complete, the nozzle follows one continuous outer contour while gradually increasing height.
Sample Topic · Special Print Mode
Vase Mode Tutorial
Spiral Vase Mode creates a lightweight, open-top print by raising the nozzle continuously while it follows one outer path. The result can be fast and nearly seamless, but it is normally only one wall thick.
Sample Topic — Full Tutorial PlannedThis is a useful introduction, not a complete Vase Mode tutorial. A future version is planned to cover more model shapes, settings, filament behavior, preview examples, tests, and troubleshooting. We may expand this lesson before the submission deadline; until then, use it as a starting point and carefully inspect the sliced preview before printing.
Version used for this guideSnapmaker Orca 2.3.5. Names and locations may change in later versions.
What the Mode Changes
Outer Shape
Surface
Inside
Top
One continuous wall above a solid base
Snapmaker Orca 2.3.5Sample topic
No normal vertical seam
Continuous movement avoids the usual start-and-stop point on each layer, although the bottom transition or model geometry may still leave a visible mark.
No normal infill
The upper part is hollow. A vase print does not gain strength from normal internal walls or infill.
No normal top layers
The model remains open at the top. Use a standard print process when the design needs a lid or closed upper surface.
Important limitationEnabling Spiral Vase Mode changes how the model is sliced. It does not make every model suitable for a one-wall continuous path.
Choose the Model First
Usually Suitable
Usually Unsuitable
Use With Caution
Not for Critical Loads
Look for one continuous outer shape
Open decorative forms
Vases, lampshades, planters with separate drainage planning, lightweight containers, and decorative shells are common choices. Curves, ribs, waves, and folds can help a thin wall resist bending.
Closed or divided models
Avoid models that require a roof, multiple separate shapes on the same layer, internal partitions, unsupported features, or several independent wall loops.
Steep slopes and narrow details
A one-wall print has little support beneath each new line. Severe overhangs, sharp changes in width, and very small features may deform or disappear.
Decorative does not mean structural
Do not assume a vase print is watertight, food-safe, heat-safe, impact-resistant, or suitable for holding a load. Confirm those requirements separately.
Snapmaker Orca 2.3.5
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Set up and verify the print
Start with matching profiles
Select the Snapmaker U1, installed nozzle size, build plate, and the filament actually loaded.
Load and inspect the model
Confirm its size and orientation. The opening should face upward, with a stable bottom on the build plate.
Enable Spiral vase
In the Process settings, open Others, find Special Mode, and enable Spiral vase. If it is hidden, change the settings display from Simple to Advanced or Expert.
Review the few settings that remain important
Check layer height, outer-wall line width and speed, bottom shell layers, first-layer settings, cooling, and build-plate adhesion.
Slice and inspect Preview
After the solid bottom, verify that each height shows one continuous outer path. Look for gaps, separate islands, unexpected travel moves, or missing features.
Save before printing
Save the project with the selected profiles and reviewed settings. Use the model creator’s instructions when they differ from general guidance.
Preview is the deciding checkIf the sliced path is interrupted or the shape does not look complete, stop and use a standard process or choose a model designed for Vase Mode.
Settings to Review
Focus on wall quality and a dependable base
| Setting | Why it matters | Beginner approach |
|---|---|---|
| Layer height | Changes curve detail, slope support, and print time. | Start with a normal layer height for the installed nozzle and the model creator’s recommendation. |
| Outer-wall line width | Strongly affects the thickness and stiffness of the single wall. | Begin with the printer profile or creator’s tested value; do not make a large increase without a small test. |
| Outer-wall speed | Affects surface consistency, cooling time, and how well the thin wall follows curves. | Use a dependable quality profile before trying faster speeds. |
| Bottom shell layers | Create the closed base beneath the spiral wall. | Use enough bottom thickness for the intended purpose and inspect the base in Preview. |
| Cooling and nozzle temperature | Affect layer bonding, overhangs, gloss, and shape retention. | Start with the selected filament profile; adjust only from a controlled test or verified recommendation. |
| Brim | Can help a narrow or warp-prone base remain attached. | Add one only when the model’s contact area or filament behavior makes it useful. |
| Smooth Spiral | Can smooth X-Y movement during the spiral and reduce a transition mark, but too much smoothing may alter the shape. | Leave it at the profile default unless a visible surface problem gives you a reason to test it. |
Common Problems
What the printed result may be telling you
Wall feels too flexible
The model may be too large or too smooth for one wall. Use a tested wider line, a larger nozzle, a ribbed model, or a standard multi-wall print.
Upper wall sags
The slope may extend too far beyond the path below it. Reduce layer height or speed, improve cooling, or choose gentler geometry.
Base lifts or warps
Check the clean build plate, first layer, bed temperature, drafts, and contact area. Add a brim when appropriate.
Gap or mark near the transition
Inspect the change from the last bottom layer to the spiral. Confirm stable flow and temperature before changing advanced starting-flow controls.
Before You Print
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Six-point Vase Print check
Suitable shape
Open top and one continuous contour.
Stable base
Enough build-plate contact and bottom thickness.
Correct profiles
Printer, nozzle, plate, and filament all match.
One spiral path
Preview shows no unexpected islands or interruptions.
Realistic purpose
The thin wall is appropriate for the intended use.
Creator guidance
Any model-specific settings have been followed.
Single-filament starting pointFor a first Vase Mode print, use one filament. Tool changes interrupt the continuous extrusion path and can leave visible marks or create reliability problems.
Related Sample Topic
Making Vase Mode Watertight
A planned follow-up will cover improving water resistance, sealing options, controlled leak testing, and the limits of describing a tested print as watertight.
Full tutorial plannedTechnical Reference
Learn what OrcaSlicer changes
The OrcaSlicer documentation describes Spiral Vase Mode as a single-walled print with solid bottom layers and a continuously rising outer contour. It also explains Smooth Spiral and the starting and finishing flow controls.
Interface reference: Snapmaker Orca 2.3.5. Technical behavior cross-checked against the official OrcaSlicer Special Mode documentation on August 25, 2026.