8x8 Project

Design:

I imported photos into Inkscape and traced bitmap. I was then approved for cutting on the laser by Mr. Cribbs. I used Inkscape to design the project, while I used Google to find the images needed. I then used the trace bitmap command within the software to outline the photos, also using different colors to help the Retina Engrave software differentiate between what to raster and what to vector. I was able to finish the entire design within two class periods and then cut on the laser within one class period. I had a few mistakes, such as using the wrong colors for the outline of the photos and text, putting on the wrong type of tape when covering the material, and not setting the power high enough to cut through the entire board the first time. I learned from this to always have your settings double checked approved before cutting with the laser and to ask questions if you are unsure of what to do. The project came out very well in the end and I had minimal trouble with the Inkscape software. Using the Retina Engrave software was tricky at first but I eventually got the hang of it soon after.

Fabrication:

For fabricating the design, I used MDF material that I cut on the laser to get my design. I made a few mistakes when I put on the tape which caused it to look like the board was smeared a little bit. I also used the wrong settings the first time, but I quickly fixed them. Always make sure that there are no creases in your tape when you are cutting so you don't end up with the same outcome as me. Make sure to ask before cutting just to confirm your settings and make sure that you don't accidentally miss something.