Let's make use of an inexpensive, readily available material, cardboard!
An inspirational sample from a professional company: http://www.cartonlabshop.com/portfolio-item/spring-fest-stand/
A room divider: http://www.wookmark.com/image/357558/circlewall-modern-cardboard-room-divider-jpg-600-457-pixels
Learning Outcomes
Introduction to Inkscape
Creating a design for the laser cutter
Using slotted design to create 3D shapes
First Prototype in Chipboard
In Inkscape, create a 2" x 2" work area
Use a Shape Tool (Rectangle, Circle, or Star/Polygon) to create a shape
Use a line tool to create four 1/2" slots on the shape
Cut four of the single shape and try various combinations
Second Prototype in Cardboard
Use a Shape Tool (Rectangle, Circle, or Star/Polygon) to create a shape
Use digital calipers to measure the thickness of the cardboard
Use the rectangle tool to create four 1/2" length slots on the shape -- adjust the width to the cardboard's thickness
Cut four of the single shape and try various combinations