LightBurn Basics

Loveland CreatorSpace — Laser Cutter Software Guide

LightBurn is the primary software used at Loveland CreatorSpace for preparing, editing, and sending jobs to our laser cutters. It provides powerful vector editing tools, image processing, material libraries, and precise control over cut and engrave settings. This page introduces members to the essential workflow and tools needed to operate LightBurn safely and effectively.

1. What LightBurn Is

• A full-featured laser cutter design and control software

• Supports vector cutting, engraving, raster image processing, and photo engraving

• Works with DXF, SVG, AI, PDF, PNG, JPG, and BMP files

• Provides real-time control of laser power, speed, passes, and air assist

LightBurn is required for all laser cutter jobs at CreatorSpace.

2. The Laser Workflow in LightBurn

1. Import or create your design (SVG/DXF or drawn inside LightBurn)

2. Assign layers (cut, engrave, score)

3. Set material and thickness

4. Adjust speed, power, and passes

5. Frame the job on the laser bed

6. Send or start the job

3. Interface Overview

Main Panels

• Workspace — where your design appears

• Cuts/Layers — controls speed, power, mode, and passes

• Laser — device control, framing, and job start

• Shape Properties — detailed settings for selected objects

• Console — device messages and status

4. Importing & Creating Designs

Importing Files

• Use File → Import for SVG, DXF, AI, PDF

• Use File → Open for LightBurn project files (.lbrn2)

Creating Inside LightBurn

• Draw lines, rectangles, circles, polygons

• Use Node Editing for precise vector control

• Use Offset for kerf compensation or outlines

• Use Text Tool for labels, signage, and engraving

Clean vectors produce cleaner cuts.

5. Layers & Operations

LightBurn uses layers to define how each part of your design is processed.

Common Layer Types

• Line — vector cutting or scoring

• Fill — engraving solid areas

• Offset Fill — engraving outlines

• Image — raster engraving photos or bitmaps

Assigning Layers

• Select an object

• Click a color in the Cuts/Layers panel

• Adjust speed, power, and mode

6. Speed, Power, and Passes

Speed

• Measured in mm/sec

• Higher speed = faster but less depth

Power

• Percentage of laser output

• Higher power = deeper cuts or darker engraves

Passes

• Multiple passes improve depth or clarity

Material Libraries

CreatorSpace maintains a material library with tested settings for:

• Baltic birch plywood

• MDF

• Acrylic

• Cardboard

• Leather

• Slate

• Powder-coated metal

Always start with recommended settings.

7. Positioning & Framing

Setting the Origin

• Use Absolute Coordinates or User Origin depending on workflow

Framing

• Click Frame to outline the job on the bed

• Ensures correct placement and avoids collisions

Camera (if installed)

• Provides live preview of the bed

• Helps align artwork to physical materials

8. Image Engraving

LightBurn includes powerful image tools.

Adjustments

• Brightness / Contrast

• Sharpen

• Gamma

• Dither modes (Stucki, Jarvis, Floyd-Steinberg)

Tips

• Use high-resolution images

• Test engraves on scrap material

• Use Jarvis or Stucki for smooth shading

9. Kerf Compensation

Kerf is the width of material removed by the laser.

Using Offset

• Select object → Offset Shapes

• Adjust inward or outward to compensate for kerf

This is essential for press-fit joints and precision parts.

10. Safety & Best Practices

• Never leave the laser unattended

• Keep the lid closed during operation

• Ensure air assist is functioning

• Remove flammable debris from the bed

• Use proper ventilation

• Report unusual smells, smoke, or flame immediately

11. Common Beginner Mistakes

• Forgetting to frame the job

• Using incorrect speed/power settings

• Not assigning layers properly

• Cutting too fast for thick materials

• Engraving images without adjusting contrast

12. Learning Resources

Official LightBurn Tutorials

• LightBurn documentation

• LightBurn YouTube channel

CreatorSpace Resources

• Laser Area Lead

• Experienced members familiar with LightBurn

• Local classes offered periodically

13. Orientation Completion

Members should demonstrate:

• Ability to import or create designs

• Proper layer assignment

• Correct speed/power selection

• Framing and positioning

• Safe operation of the laser cutter