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Laser Cutting

Laser Cutting

Min number of participants 1
Age 14+ yrs.
Safety support by adult Recommended
Min duration 30 min.
Cost Medium
Environment Indoor

Use a computer-controlled laser to cut and engrave intricate designs into wood, acrylic, leather, or card — bringing digital drawings to life as precise, beautifully finished physical objects.

The Essentials

Rules

  • Never leave a running laser cutter unattended; a jammed or overheating material can catch fire within seconds.
  • Only cut materials that are approved for laser cutting; PVC, vinyl, and some other plastics release toxic or corrosive fumes when cut.
  • Keep a properly rated fire extinguisher within reach of the machine at all times.
  • Ensure the ventilation or exhaust system is running and clear of blockages before starting any job.
  • Wear the required eye protection if the machine's beam enclosure is open, since the laser can cause serious eye damage.

Tips

  • Test settings (power, speed, and focus) on a scrap piece of your material before running the final cut.
  • Keep the lens and mirrors clean, since dust and residue reduce cutting power and can damage the optics over time.
  • Vector-cut before you engrave when a design needs both, so registration marks aren't disturbed by leftover cut pieces.
  • Remove the cut piece and clean any soot or residue promptly after each job, especially on materials like wood or acrylic.
  • Design with kerf (the small amount of material removed by the beam) in mind, since tight-fitting joints need slight adjustments to fit properly.

What You Need

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