The laser cutter is a fantastic and easy to learn tool for 2D digital fabrication. As its name implies, it uses a focused beam of energy to cut and engrave materials. Paper, cardboard, acrylic, and most woods can be used with our cutter and lend a professional feel to your prototypes. Unlike 3D printers, the laser cutter can process jobs much faster, making it an ideal choice for your rapid prototyping needs.
We use a 40 Watt Epilog Mini with an 12" x 24" cutting area. If you're a big fan of details, you can find out more by visiting the Product Page or reviewing the Machine Manual.
1. Get Trained
In this one hour training session, you'll learn how to use the laser cutter and to do it safely. We'll also teach you how to create and prepare your files. Upon completion, you can start booking time slots on the machine whenever you like.
2. Book a Time Slot
Time slots are one hour long and be made reserved once per day. Take into consideration that etching can take significantly longer than cutting. Speak with our technicians about optimizing your file.
3. Share Your Work
We're always on the lookout for inspiring projects. If you've made something neat using the cutter, consider sharing it with everyone in our Slack group.
--- Join Us on Slack
Materials
We provide acrylic, plywood, and cardboard sheets free of charge. You're also welcome to bring your own materials for cutting, but there are limitations. Some materials can damage the machine or produce dangerous corrosive fumes. Consult this table before making a purchase and always speak with a StudioLab Technician before cutting.
| Allowed | Banned |
|---|---|
| Wood | 3D Prints |
| Acrylic | PVC |
| Paper | Styrofoam |
| Fabric | Polystyrene |
| Leather | Polycarbonate |
| Matte Board | Mirrored Surfaces |
| Ceramic | Foam Core |
| Cork | Corrugated Cardboard |
Resources
SVG Files
Material Vendors
Web Apps
Box Generators
Leary Box
MakerCase
Boxes.py
templatemaker.nl
Gear Generators
Leary Gears
Wood Gears
Spur Gear Builder
Nesting Programs
Miscellaneous
Software and File Types
The laser cutter can print from PDF, DXF, SVG, and AI file types. We recommend using Adobe Illustrator to create designs and saving them as AI or SVG. Other software can be used with the laser cutter, but our staff has only been trained to support these standards.
| 2D | 3D |
|---|---|
| Adobe Illustrator | Fusion 360 |
| AutoCAD | Inventor |
| Inkscape | Rhino |