If you have a 3D printer you will be running software like Repetier Host or CURA to run your files. The good news is they all accept G Code files. There are a lot of different machines out there and each one has it’s own control software to run the machine. Click on the links below to follow the tutorials: We have tutorials on how to do this for both Inkscape (vector) and Laser Etch (rastor). Once you have your drawing or image from step 1 you now need to convert it to G Code to run on the machine. G Code is the “language” that your machine uses to know where to move and turn on and off the laser.

We like the free open source editor called “paint dot net”. There are plenty of image editing software programs out there. You can download inkscape here: If you are doing photos or images (rastor filled) then you will need to make sure your photo is the proper size and resolution for engraving. It is a bit expensive for us, so we use the free tool of Inkscape. Adobe Illustrator is a very popular tool for making Vector based drawings. If you are doing a vector based (outline) engraving, then there are a lot of different programs you can use.

Here are the details for each of these separate sections: 1. The basic Tool flow for laser engraving is: Using Lightburn on Shapeoko3 and X Carve Machinesįor other machines, you will need to generate your g code and then run it on your machine. To set up lightburn software on the Shapeoko3 and the X Carve, follow the instructions here: It is an all in one software package that can do design work and run the machine in one step. If you have a GRBL machine like the shapeoko3 or the X Carve, then we recommend using Lightburn. There are a lot of ways to do this, depending on which machine you have. This is good for images, logos, and anything you want to be “filled”.Įxample of a rastor engraving of a logo How do I get from my Photo or Drawing to Laser Engraving? Rastor Engraving – This engraving method will take the laser back and forth like a typewriter turning the laser on when there is a dark part of the image and off when it is white. Vector Engraving – This engraving method will take the laser and follow a “path” that will outline the drawing.Įxample vector engraving of 8, 12, and 18 point Arial FontĢ.Laser engraving is the process of taking an image or drawing and transferring it into a material via the use of a laser. What are the Types of Engraving I can do? We will cover the basics here and have pointers to the specific tutorials as well. We have tutorials on several of these programs for different parts of the tool flow. In this, there are a lot of different software programs used to engrave. We provide numerous instructions on upgrading many machines.

Makerbot Replicator 2 and 2x Laser Upgrade.

Generic Magnet Mounting Bundle Instructions.

Vectric Non-Laser Module Post Processors.

Advanced optoelectronics for Industry, Research, and Enthusiasts.

Acan laser engraving