Small parts and support structures without raft

[siva]

I seem to have trouble getting good prints for small parts and small support structures without a raft. Essentially the first layer ends up being too flaky. If I use a raft, then the raft layer perimeter is not as much flaky and the raft fill is all fine and rest of the print works too. If I print with a raft I have to spend sometime doing cleanup but otherwise the prints are very good. So question is, what can I do to reduce the flakiness for small parts and support structures if I print without a raft?

[jimc]

what are you printing on? are you using an adhesive of some sort? glue stick, hairspray, etc? my supports are always bonded to the bed as good as my model is. i print on a good bed of hairspray though. your z height or bed gap play a big part in 1st layer adhesion. if your supports are popping off then you might need to add an adhesive or print the first layer closer to the bed. if i am misunderstanding your problem perhaps you can post a picture.