Laser Design 101

This intensive two-hour training course introduces attendees to software, work flow, and design
concepts integral to production with CO2 laser cutters and engravers. The course will cover image
processing and design, 3D modeling software (see below), and foundational techniques using opensource software where possible.
The primary design tools for this course will be Inkscape, GIMP, Blender 3D (including papercraft
plugins and applications for creating laser-cut 3D items) and Lightburn. Specifically, attendees will
gain a fundamental comprehension of vector graphics, raster images (bitmaps) and 3D modeling for
design and fabrication using laser cutters.
The aim of the course is to provide the attendee with a foundational understanding of the design
technologies of digital fabrication specifically for laser cutters, but also applicable to CNC routers,
blade cutting machines, and 3D printers.

LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion of this course, attendees will:
• Understand the 2D graphics types (vectors and bitmaps), the difference between them, how they
are used in machine fabrication, and how to work with them.
• Have a familiarity with simple 3D modeling concepts for creating laser compatible assemblies.
• How the various design aspects work together in combination.

SOFTWARE COVERED
• GIMP: Raster (bitmap) images for engraving
◦ Bitmaps (simply) defined, bit depth, color space, resolution (DPI) & size, Alpha channel,
layers, image enhancements, level correction, selection tools, export formats.
• Inkscape: Vector graphics
◦ Vectors (simply) defined, line weights and styles, color mapping, beziers, knot editing,
object order, layering, grouping, fill and stroke, fonts, text on curve, text editing, text
converting, autotracing, export formats.
• Lightburn: Portal to the laser cutter
▪ Laser control, cut settings, coordinates (absolute, current position, user position),
graphic placement, basic vector design, multi-layer layouts, image modes.
• Blender: 3D Modeling
▪ 3D object types, polygon object components, origin and object centers, surface normals,
object heirarchy, simple polygonal assemblies, laser slicer and paper model add-ons,
export formats.
• Pepakura Designer: Creating 3D objects
▪ Import process, layout, separating/joining faces, edge IDs, glue flaps, fold lines,
exporting.