Learn how to make laser cut files for Glowforge, the laser printer that’s so popular right now.
If you’re into graphic design, you have most likely worked with Adobe Illustrator.
However, you need to know how to maximize it to get the best designs.
Laser cutting can be intimidating.
But if your new design venture has brought you to making laser-cut files, then you’re in the right place.
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What to make with Glowforge
So, just what can you make with this machine? Well, almost anything.
When it comes to making crafts with Glowforge, the possibilities are endless.
Glowforge is an excellent technology that can make any design made for laser-compatible materials.
Whether you’re thinking about jewelry, toys, wood, leather, or paper, Glowforge will do it.
Glowforge uses a finely focused laserjet to cut through almost anything.
It’s speedy and cuts through even thick materials with ease.
What do I need to work with Glowforge
Here are the tools you need to work with Glowforge
- Computer
- Glowforge printer
- cut files (you can make your own with Inkscape or another drawing program)
You can use a tablet, MAC, or any PC to work with a Glowforge.
Ensure that the browser and software are updated.
Files for cutting with Glowforge can be saved as SVG, JPG, PNG, and PDF.
If you want to cut, score and engrave without a hitch, the best formats are PDF and SVG.
Saving
When saving, don’t export or just click on ‘save’.
Instead, select ‘save as’.
To keep your file at the same size when it’s eventually uploaded, uncheck the responsiveness box.
How to work with Glowforge
You can either make cuts or scores on a laser-compatible material.
A cut completely penetrates the material while scoring merely inscribes lines on it.
To give instructions for cutting or scoring, select a stroke color.
If you’re only planning to cut the material, select a fill color for the Glowforge.
Only select a stroke color if you want to engrave.
If the project requires both cutting and engraving, ensure that you have selected both a fill color and a stroke color for the Glowforge.
The video below has basic instructions for getting started.
Working with different depths
Depending on how complex your design is, sometimes you may need to cut, score and engrave different depths.
To do this, set instructions for your Glowforge by using different colors for different depths.
Doing this instructs Glowforge to interpret the different steps in the process.
The Glowforge can place the steps in the order you want according to color, and you can set this up.
You can also just click and drag the steps to organize them.
Working with text
Smart as it is, the Glowforge can’t read.
If your design involves engraving words on a material, you will need to first change them to fills and strokes to avoid messing up the material.
To prevent the Glowforge from cutting out parts of a word, make sure that the letters in one particular word are joined.
The aim is for the letters not to appear fragmented.
You can join the letters using a pathfinder.
What kind of table do you use for Glowforge?
Get a sturdy table for your Glowforge, at about 25 KGs, it’s a pretty heavy machine. You want it on a stable surface.
Can you rent a Glowforge?
This powerful machine is so popular that it may be hard for you to get your hands on one right away.
But according to the Craft Industry Alliance if you’re really in need, and live in the Midwest, you can rent a Glowforge at the JoANN Concept store.
Final word
Glowforge is the ultimate printing ninja when you need to work with a variety of materials and for a shorter time.
Ensure you have the appropriate app to work with Glowforge.
So, are you tempted to try it out? Find out how you can get one here.
