Making with a Laser Cutter
Make Use Of
Beginners: The first and easiest way to start cutting is to find a project file that someone has already made and use it. The Projects and Resources page can help you locate files to print.
Make It
The second way to engage with laser cutters is to make a project file from scratch yourself. This involves using software, and possibly a scanner, to create an SVG file. the printer will understand.
How to Cut
Your First Cut
Instructions for creating your first cut project....
- Arrive at the Innovation Lab.
- Check in with the staff.
- Decide if you want to make or make use of a design.
- If make, open one of the applications listed below on one of the High-Tech Makerspace computers.
- If make use of, find an existing project online.
- Choose which of the two Glowforges meets your needs.
- Turn on the Glowforge.
- Open the top of the Glowforge.
- Place the material to be cut.
- Close the lid.
- Visit the Glowforge web app from one of the High-Tech Makerspace computers.
- Load your project file.
- Select on-screen which Glowforge to use.
- Send the project file to print.
- Turn on the air filter.
- Push the start button on the Glowforge you selected.
Software to Make Files
Several types of software can be used to design project files for the Glowforge. Some are free, some are not. You can use several options installed on the Media Studio desktop computers.
- InkscapeInkscape allows you to draw vector graphics output as SVG files that are understood by the laser cutter. It is installed on machines in the Media Studio.
BONUS: You can install Inkscape on your own machine for free. - Adobe IllustratorAdobe has many tutorials to help you learn to draw vector graphics with InDesign. This is a licensed software application and is part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite installed on machines in the Media Studio.
Know Your Machine
Equipment Manuals
- Glowforge ManualsAll the Glowforge manuals are on this page. Projects begin on page 58 of the user manual.
Do's and Don'ts of Laser Cutters
- DO choose the right material
Choose the product before the material. What you make depends on what features are important in the material. Consider flexibility, smoothness, hardness, etc. - DON'T use the machine without making sure the air filter is on
The air filter allows the Glowforge machine to be used indoors. If the air filter is not on, the machine will emit toxic fumes into the air. - DO make sure the air filter is connected to the machineThe air filter keeps harmful fumes and chemicals out of the air. Never use a laser cutter without some type of ventilation.
- DON'T assume all materials are food-safeNot all items are food-safe. Food-safe is not just about containers. It refers to anything you will put in your mouth, like silverware or cups. If you know the material, it should be easy to search if its safe.
- DO wear provided protective eyewear when using the Glowforge Pro's pass-through slotAnything involving a class 4 laser requires protective eyewear. When is the last time you heard someone say their project is ruined because they wore
protective eyewear while using a laser? You only get two eyes, be safe. Protective eyewear can be found next to the Glowforge Pro (please clean before and after use with the provided cleaning supplies). - DON'T leave the laser cutter unattendedThe laser should not cause any issues in theory, but that does not mean it is okay to leave it unattended. If an accident happens, it will happen quickly and need immediate response.
