Ok two things:
- the blue filament is not PLA, its PETG . Explains why it didn't bond to the white... note to self, next time actually check the filament instead of 'remembering' where I left certain rolls....
- swapped the DRV8825 driver to A4988 and no more skipped steps. I think the problem is this: http://cabristor.blogspot.com/2015/0...steps.html?m=1. Missing steps with low speeds... and the problems were evident with low perimeter speeds. Wonder how much this affects the surface quality... must print another benchy.

This DRV8825 problem might affect my plans about PrusaDollo if I can't trust the drivers. I have those diodes mentioned in above blog so maybe I'll try if that works.