Laser Cut Acrylic Frame

Today you will create a custom photo frame using the laser cutter and Inkscape. You can check out this Google Image Search for a few ideas or inspirations.

Download and Open the Template

The template is 5" by 3", which is a common photo size.

Space Considerations

Your work must stay within the 5" x 3" work area.

Common Tools

Square, Circle, Polygon/Star and Text Tool may be used here.

Remember, when creating a frame, you will need one shape to be the outline of the frame, and one shape to create a hole, where your picture can be seen.

Convert Frame to Paths

Now that you have the inside and outside border of the frame, select them and go to Path>Object to Path. This turns the shape into paths, allowing you to add joints, bends, or curves.

Creating a Pattern with Shapes

Once you have the main frame created, you can add smaller shapes as ornament. (Hint: You can create a hole near the top, at the center of the frame, as a hanging hole for mounting the frame.)

Fastener Holes (and hanging hole)

Using the Circle Tool, add two 3mm holes on either side. We will use these holes to thread a screw and bolt, fastening the front of the frame to the back of the frame.

Save As... SVG

Save as SVG.

Select your acrylic

Pick out the color of your frame.

Cutting Time

We'll collect your files and begin cutting.

Instructor note: An easy way to cut the front and back is to simply delete the inner frame before performing the second cut.

Surveys

Surveys are here: https://sites.google.com/site/cplmakerlab/surveys