Fabrication Lab Experimentations

A laser cutter is ultimately a computer controlled machine that utilises a laser beam which then carefully cuts or engraves a product. A laser is a highly amplified light. The laser beam causes the product it is being used on to efficiently burn, melt away or vaporize. The kind of material that a laser cutter can cut depends on the specific machine’s power as different laser cutters have different strengths and capabilities. (Theresa, 2019).

The laser cutter is an interesting and helpful tool to utilise in the fabrication lab, and the first time I used one I was so excited. I have created a keychain with it by creating my idea on Adobe Illustrator. I created a document with a square form and then added in my name and an icon. I chose a flower as I like the symmetry of it and its simple form. Then, once you have all your desired forms on the page; you then have to change the colour of the lines in the work to red, blue or black - depending on what areas you want to be cut, etched or engraved while in the laser cutter. This is a vital step as this is the main reason to how laser cutting really works. Further, it is important for different textures, looks, style and functionality of products being produced.

One thing I was unsure about in the process of making this keychain was that I made my text with a unique and fun font. However, it did not come through in the final hard copy product. My guess is that I don't think the computer that I sent my design to for printing had the font downloaded - so it resorted back to a default typeface.

In the future, I am very excited to undergo larger projects with the laser cutter and expand my horizon with my skills and what I can create as. this tool has always sparked curiosity in me.

#Des100

Reference

Theresa. (2019). Maker Design Lab. Retrieved from https://makerdesignlab.com/tutorials-tips/laser-cutting-beginners-guide/