Laser Cutting: Design for Fabrication

Learn practical graphic design skills to make the best use of laser cutting technology, from the initial design phase to actually cutting with the laser.

Introduction

• Laser fabrication for product design
• What you should know

1. How Laser Cutting Works

• What is laser cutting?
• Core terminology
• Machine overview
• When to laser cut

2. Materials

• Organic materials
• Synthetic materials
• Laser safety

3. Types of Projects

• Flat designs
• Engraved designs
• Folding designs
• Interlocking parts

4. Design Considerations

• Cutting a pre-existing 2D design
• Cutting a folding design
• Cutting an interlocking form
• Process limitations
• Formatting your art

5. Cutting Workflow

• Troubleshooting your files
• Tips and tricks
• Machine settings
• Lasers
• Post-processing

Conclusion

• Next steps