Laser Engraving
Laser Engraving a Notebook
Prepare: JPEG formated images can be engraved with the laser. I have found that a simple image gives the laser novice a more satisfying result.
FYI: When doing cutouts on the laser, images must be vector format. Therefore you will save time by converting your image files to vectors before your reservation at the FabLab.
- It is always a good idea to do a sample of your image on cardboard or any other inexpensive material establishing the finished size and image.
- SPEED: 53
- POWER: 25
- PPI: 400
- To calibrate the Speed/Power/PPI settings you should run a few test on your chosen material with a thermometer of your final image's colors and shading.
- In Corel Draw create a small rectangle, copy and paste this rectangle nine times. Align the ten rectangles so it resembles a thermometer then select all the rectangles and resize the lot to the width of your desired finished image.
- For a gray scale image fill the first rectangle in the row with 100% black, working down the row fill each rectangle with 10% less black then the last rectangle until the final rectangle is white (90% black, 80% black, 70%, etc.). For color images fill rectangles on the thermometer image with your final image's colors.
- Locate the laser on a test piece of your final material and determine a starting point for your Speed/Power/PPI settings. Record these settings and engrave the thermometer image.
- Keep relocating and adjusting the Speed/Power/PPI settings on your test material with the thermometer image until you are satisfied with the result. It is OK to go too high or low, better now then later. This is a tedious process but it will help in the making of your final project.
- Once happy with the Speed/Power/PPI settings from the previous tests enter the final settings and have a go with your image on your chosen material!
- SPEED: 40
- POWER: 40
- PPI: 400
Image / Size
Suggested setting for corrugated cardboard:
Settings
Engraving
Suggested setting for a oilcloth-covered cardboard notebook:
