A simple worksheet for comparing multicolor print waste

Keep the comparison controlled

Choose one model and hold its size, orientation and quality settings constant. Save the sliced versions under clear names. If you change the number of objects on the plate, note that as a separate variable because shared transitions can change the per-object outcome.

Separate useful material and other consumption

Record the finished parts in one column and everything else in another. Supports, brim and purge all consume purchased material. If the slicer combines them, use its detailed report or weigh the separated output. Do not subtract waste twice from a total that already excludes it.

Use the same denominator every time

An 80 g part with 20 g waste has a 20% waste share of total consumption, but waste equals 25% of the part weight. Both ratios are mathematically valid and answer different questions. The calculator labels its measure as waste share of all consumed material.

Look beyond the cheapest number

A print that uses less purge but needs to be repeated can consume more material overall. Keep successful output and failure notes alongside the material figures. Printer-specific transition settings belong in the official workflow; the worksheet supplies the accounting, not a universal purge recommendation.

Before you use the result

Check the measurement units, use the actual materials or equipment in your project, and test a small example. The linked calculator shows its assumptions and provides a worksheet you can keep with your project notes.

These examples were prepared for this site. They are not a report of a laboratory test or a product certification.