How to Print Laser Cuttings

Turn a drawing into a laser cutting.

Laser cutters, also called laser engravers, create an image on a material, such as metal or wood, using a laser. These devices cut a pattern, drawing or shape into a surface. Laser cutters ship with image editing software that allows you to transform drawings or photographs into laser cuttings. For the clearest, brightest laser engraved material, use a photograph or drawing with simple shapes and a large amount of contrast.

Things You'll Need

• Laser cutter
• Flat, medium-size sheet of wood or metal

Instructions

1. Install the laser engraving software on your computer. Insert the disc into your computer and double-click on the icon of the disc. Follow the installation instructions, clicking "OK" when prompted. Open the software by double-clicking on its icon.

2. Create an image to use for the engraving. Import a photograph or drawing by clicking on the "File" menu and scrolling to "Import." Double-click on the photo to open the toolbar. Crop the photo using the crop tool, then set the resolution. Click on the "Image" menu, then scroll to "Image Size." Enter a resolution in the text field and click the "Apply" button.

3. Transform the image so that it is laser appropriate. Click on the "Transform" menu and select "Photo Laser." Click "OK."

4. Open the tray of the laser cutter and set the item you wish to engrave on the surface of the glass, with the side to be engraved facing upwards. Close the tray.

5. Click on the "File" menu of the program and scroll to "Print." Click on the "Material" drop-down menu and select the material you are engraving, such as "Wood." Press "Print" and allow the laser to cut.

References

• Epilog Laser: Technical Library
• Epilog Laser: Laser Cutter Instructions

Resources

• Business: Laser Cutters