This hands-on workshop takes mixed-level participants from laser fundamentals through vector design, material preparation, laser settings optimization, and hands-on cutting & engraving. Participants will design or prepare artwork, learn CO2 laser safety, configure cutting parameters, and create a finished project they can take home.
Learning Objectives
• Understand CO2 laser principles: how it cuts, engraves, and vaporizes materials
• Master laser safety: eye protection, ventilation, fire prevention, emergency procedures
• Prepare vector artwork in Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape.
• Configure laser settings: power, speed, frequency for different materials (wood, acrylic, paper)
• Optimize designs for cutting vs. engraving (stroke weight, fill, vector cleanup)
• Operate CO2 laser machine: alignment, material loading, job submission, real-time monitoring
• Post-processing: edge finishing, assembly, quality inspection
