First Things First: Layouts

[admin]

To create a basic layout with images and text, start by making a new blank file the exact size of the material you are engraving. For example, a wood plaque 8 x10 would require a blank file that is also 8x10”. A granite tile 12x12 would require a blank file 12”x12”. By making the file size the same as your material size you will ensure that your layout has proper spacing/scaling for the image and the text to be etched. This will also allow you to take advantage of LaserCut’s layering feature that allows you to etch lettering and images at different speeds and powers, simultaneously.

With your new blank file you can start building a layout.

First, the background layer must be either solid black or solid white.
Use black for all black colored materials such as jet black granite or marble or solid black acrylic. Since the material is black, the laser will be adding in the white details of the image.

Use White for ALL other materials. Since the material is light, the etching will be adding in the shadow details of the image.

The resolution of your file will be determined by the material.

Basically, the laser has different reactions to different materials and therefore creates different dots sizes. These dot sizes dictate the maximum resolution you can use.

Wood materials burn.
Acrylic, rubber and plastics melt.
Granite, marble and glass have an explosion effect.

More information regarding the DPI to come!

[Rolfdog]

Keep these coming. Very useful to go back & reference.