There were three projects using the laser engraver: A custom designed notebook, water bottle and a 3-D object that we cut out and put together.
3-D Object:
Step 1. Use the website Thingverse to choose an object you want to cut out.
Step 2. Download the object from thingverse and load it up on adobe illustrator and get it sized up to fit inside the laser engraver (18x32)
Step 3. Print on laser engraver and build project (look to illustrator for directions) *CHANGE MATERIAL TO MAT BOARD!*
Notebook:
Step 1. Find the design you want for your notebook and upload it to illustrator. Dimensions for your notebook should be 4.25x5.5 in
Step 2. Export and Print on the laser engraver (For instructions go to illustrator tab) *IMPORTANT* Make sure to change material to mat board!
Step 3. Create holes for the spiral notebook. Cut paper to put in the notebook (40, 4.25x5.5 pieces). Add holes for spiral
Step 4. Assemble the notebook. make a paper sandwich with the front and back cover then spiral the spine into the holes you cut.
Water bottle:
Step 1. Create the design you want to put on your water bottle in illustrator with an art board that is 9x5.5 in
Step 2. Set up your water bottle in the rotational jig set up in the laser engraver and make sure it is plugged in. Make sure to check that the fixture type is changed to rotary (Should be automatic but check anyway) and change the material to anodized aluminium.
Step 3. Insert water bottle into laser engraver, close the lid, and start the process
Step 4. When the water bottle is done, remove it from the jig, TURN OFF THE LASER, and rinse it off in the sink.
What I learned: I learned that the laser engraver is a very versatile tool that can do more than what you can think it can do. It made cutouts that, when put together, can make a 3D object. A 3D OBJECT! Now that's something. It is also a lot easier than I expected to design a product and actually execute it. Overall, it was a fun project and I learned a lot, like making sure you have the right dimensions when making a notebook or you will end up with a key chain, and when it comes to designing something, simple designs are your best friend.