Cost: Members $59/Non-members $79
Age: 18+
Prerequisites: N/A
Credentials: Laser Cutter Safety
Recommended Follow Up Classes: Inkscape for CNC, Plasma Cutter, Intro to Wood Shop
Laser engraving is a fun and interesting skill that can range from an enjoyable hobby to a lucrative business opportunity. Engraving can be used to personalize everyday objects, such as coasters, keychains, and barware. Lasers can even cut materials with details that are impossible for other tools! This is the perfect launching point into larger CNC operations, such as the plasma cutter or the techno router table. This is the perfect course for dipping your toes into the world of CNC machines!
The course content includes:
- Startup Procedure
- Overview of what CAD is
- Overview of what CAM is
- Quick overview of what gcode is
- How the laser cutter functions
- How to prep a file for the laser cutter
- Cutting versus engraving and vector versus raster
- What materials can be cut
- Tolerances
- Kerf of the cut
- Power and Speeds calculations
- Troubleshooting
- Where to source materials
Materials Included: A variety of acrylic, plywood, and paper to experiment on, as well as all machines, consumables, and accessories. Participants are welcome to bring their own supplies to cut! Be aware that several types of plastics are not safe to cut on the laser, so ensure that you know exactly what material you are bringing.
All people are welcome in this class and an active effort will be made to be inclusive to all people. This class will not tolerate sexism, ableism, racism, homophobia, or transphobia. MakerspaceCT is for everyone.
