How to Use a Laser Cutter - Basics Tutorial

A laser cutter is an invaluable tool for any shop, especially our prop and costume making workshop. Bill goes over the basic techniques needed to cut out a variety of materials like EVA foam, wood, and plastics on a hobby sized laser cutter.

Links:

Laser Cutter Materials Information

Inkscape Premium Tutorial Video

Inkscape

Laser Cutting at Ponoko

Tools & Materials:

Full Spectrum 5th Gen Hobby Laser

EVA Foam

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[jasonbaker]

I don't have a laser cutter but it's amazing how interesting and informative you made this. It was a pleasure to watch. Thanks!

[jackmccallum]

Thank you so so so so so so so so so so much this video helped me vigorously pass my GCSEs you are an absolute queen!!! :)

[lukaMcDonald]

this is an exquisite example on how to use this

[Chris-Horii_Korium]

Love the laser cutter as it was the first machine I learned at the local maker space (that sadly closed down). Also one of the easiest to prep and use out of the machines they had. The only thing is you have watch it (or grab someone to watch it while you run off to the bathroom during a big etch). For cool projects, um... very few that I have pictures of, but the masters for the coaster(s) I showed you at SVCC 2017 were laser cut. Also made (somewhat) cheap birthday gifts.

Implied, but it might be useful to mention why etching is first (if the machine doesn't do this automatically), and that for some materials might even want to design ... whatever those CNC tabs are called that are cut out/off later if for some reason the material is at risk of settling/moving during the cut.

Also, ABS is on the no-cut list. Both (it and PVC) were almost hilariously terrifying to read the posted warning sign (and of course the ones I tell people at parties).

[webmasterblackraven]

One important thing, when cutting out holes in your pattern do the holes on a different layer/colour so that you can cut them out before you cut the outline

[travistrue]

Oh damn, I just realized you're using a Full Spectrum Laser CNC. They make those in Vegas where I live. Awesome!

[LizzieWestBathandBody]

Lasers have come along way since 1990 when they fit in your garage and you had to spend 125K on it and it table that went back and forth like Laser Machining Inc in Somerset WI Epilog and Universal pretty much put them out of business... Thank you for sharing The biggest rule of thumb with any laser is exhaust that is absolutely key and never cut anything that would give you a headache like Resin I.e. Corian or Solid Surface Material etc

[jamessturgeon]

Really helpful video! Clear and to the point, too! Thanks!

[sz]

I don't own a laser, but I'm looking into getting something soon. I was surprised to see that your SFLaser does not separately enclose/shield the laser tube or the electronics from all the smoke generated inside. Your laser tube (and most likely the insides of the high-voltage power supply) are coated with smoke.

[mortensentim]

I like to save the power and speed settings in the file name so it's quick to remake parts.

[swish]

The first thing you should know about lasers is that they are hella rad and make "pew pew" noises.

[MSCShopHK]

Looking forward to more Laser Cut project!!

[tyler]

At one of my old jobs I used to run laser cutters in vegas. We made all the artwork for slot machines. I would run 5 lasers at a time. If you want any tips let me know. Awesome video!

[MrsInAbox]

Thanks to this channel, I already wanted a 3D printer and a CNC. Now I have to add laser cutter to the list too. Dang it.

[sandhyawadhwa]

Which button you pushed to find that material is enough at 6:28

[psaldorn]

I could watch timelapse laser cutters all day

[iiinsaiii]

Great video, I have the same Full Spectrum Laser as you. I would love to see more videos on the laser, other projects and some tips and tricks. Thanks and keep up the good work.

[gkkent]

Thank you!! Excellent tutorial! You are a great teacher!!

[ABCRK]

love the shout out to glow forge. Just got my unit and loving it.

[WhiteysWickedWorkshop]

Thanks for the vid. I did end up buying a amazon blue laser and it works rather well. Ill have to send you a pic on twitter once I get the video out. Thanks again