What is vase mode (spiral mode)?

Vase mode prints a single-wall object in one continuous spiral motion, with no Z seam or travel moves. The nozzle gradually rises as it traces the perimeter, creating a smooth, seamless surface. Most slicers call this "Spiralize Outer Contour" or "Vase Mode".

How strong are vase mode prints?

Vase mode prints have only one wall (typically 0.4mm with a 0.4mm nozzle) with no infill, so they are not structural. The base is the exception — slicers print a fully-solid bottom (4 layers by default), so the floor is sturdy while the walls stay thin. They are excellent for decorative items like vases, lampshades and pen holders, but not for functional parts that need strength.

Can I make vase mode prints watertight?

Often yes, if you use a slightly wider extrusion (increase flow by 5-10%) and print slowly enough for good layer bonding. PLA and PETG both work well. Some users apply a thin coat of epoxy inside for guaranteed watertightness.

What nozzle size is best for vase mode?

A 0.6mm nozzle is ideal for vase mode as it produces stronger walls (0.6mm thick) while still printing quickly. A 0.4mm nozzle works but produces more delicate results. Larger nozzles like 0.8mm make very robust vases.

Why is vase mode so fast?

Vase mode eliminates all travel moves, retractions, and Z-hops. The nozzle never stops extruding, so there is no time wasted on non-printing moves. This typically makes prints 2-4x faster than standard mode.

Vase Mode Calculator

How We Calculate This

Vase Mode Calculations

Wall thickness = Nozzle diameter x Line width factor (default 1.05 — deposited lines run ~5% wider than the nozzle bore)
Perimeter = Pi x Diameter
Total layers = Height / Layer height
Total path = Perimeter x Total layers
Wall filament = Total path x (Wall thickness x Layer height) x density — the deposited line is modelled as line width x layer height, as PrusaSlicer/Cura do
Solid base = Pi x radius² x Bottom layers x Layer height x density
Print time = Total path length / Print speed

Vase mode prints a single continuous spiral wall with no infill, inner walls, or top layers. It does, however, lay down a fully-solid base (4 bottom layers by default in Cura and PrusaSlicer) so the print has a watertight floor — this calculator adds that solid disc to the filament estimate, which can be a significant fraction of the total for a wide, short vase.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify settings with test prints before committing to final prints.

Vase Mode Calculator — Wall Thickness & Print Time