Laser cutting, while typically used for industrial manufacturing applications, has many applications for schools, small businesses, and shared Makerspaces like ours. Users can cut and engrave a variety of materials for artistic and functional purposes. From shadow boxes and unique business cards to even furniture, our users have made all sorts of interesting things.
Laser cutting works by directing the output of a high-power laser (most commonly through optics) into a material to cut or engrave with varying degrees of strength. Our laser cutter is free to use, and we provide paper and cardboard, although the possibilities don't end there! Ask one of our staff about approved materials.
The 50W Epilog Laser Mini is covered in our T1 training.
Software: Adobe Illustrator
Artboard: 24" x 12"
The 75 Epilog Laser Helix is a larger laser, running the same drivers as the mini laser covered in T1 training.
Artboard: 24" x 18"
The Shopbot has impressive woodworking capabilities, and can handle much larger materials than our lasercutters. Please inquire about training if you are interested in milling at the Makerspace.
Work Area: 24" x 12" x 3.5"
The Othermill Pro is a type of machine that can be used to create small objects or parts out of various materials like metal, plastic, or wood. It uses computer-controlled cutting tools to precisely shape and carve the material according to a design created on a computer. The machine is often used by engineers, designers, and hobbyists to create custom parts for various projects.
Some things you can make include...
Circuit boards
Jewelry
Prototypes
Artwork
Work Area: 6" x 4" x 1.25" (152.4mm x 101.6mm x 31.75mm)
Software: Bantam Tools
The Carvey is an easy-to-use desktop milling machine, with built-in settings for materials and browser-based software.
Software: Easel
Work Area: 11.6" x 8" x 2.75"
The Silhouette Cameo is a type of artwork that involves creating an image by cutting out a shape from a contrasting background material. Typically, the image is cut out of a piece of black paper or another dark material and then mounted on a contrasting light background.
Software: Silhouette