Create an amazing looking notebook cover that is personalized to your own taste. Learn to create graphic designs to engrave and cut using a CO2 laser like the Glowforge.

Class Description

We will start by learning graphic design techniques with a focus on creating designs suitable for laser engraving. We will learn graphic design principles such as balance, contrast, and visual hierarchy. Following this, students will receive a tutorial on Inkscape, learning how to navigate the interface, create basic shapes, and manipulate text for their notebook designs. Students will learn how to optimize these designs for laser engraving, including how to convert their designs into the correct file formats and set up their artwork with the proper cut and engrave lines. The session will end with students finalizing their notebook designs and preparing them for the laser engraving process.

Learning Goals

1) Understand basic graphic design principles and apply them to create an aesthetically pleasing notebook cover. 2) Gain proficiency in using Inkscape to create and edit vector graphics for laser engraving. 3) Learn how to prepare designs for laser engraving, including optimizing file formats and setting up cut and engrave lines. 4) Understand the laser engraver settings and the manufacturing process to produce a set of wooden tea lights.

Other information that is useful for this class

A calendar link to confirm the schedule will be sent to you in your confirmation email.

Things you should know before this class

Ability to use a computer, connect to the internet and use software like Zoom.

Stuff you need for the class

A Windows or Apple computer where you can install software that can connect to the Internet via the Chrome browser and can access Zoom software Download and install the open source graphic design software from https://inkscape.org/