Laser Cutting - Advanced Techniques for Woodworkers - null

Enhance your handcrafted wood projects by using a new technology which has become much easier to use. Learn how to use a laser cutter as an adjunct to your woodworking. You can engrave your finished items with your maker's mark, signature, or logo. Flat areas can be engraved with decorative motifs or embellishments. Router templates can be easily and quickly cut from plywood to achieve more intricate shapes. The laser can also cut thin veneer pieces very accurately and reproducibly to glue into designs on thicker wood. Stencils can be cut from various thin materials to assist in painting or staining patterns onto your work .Lastly, small shelves, tables, boxes, etc. can be fully created and press-fitted from plywood up to 1/4" thick. We'll explore the capabilities and limitations of using a CO2 laser cutter, including which materials are suitable for being processed by such a system. We’ll also cover the basics of Inkscape, a free/shareware vector graphics program which can be used to create line-art suitable for realizing most designs with the laser. No prior experience necessary. Returning learners are welcome too!