Create your first set of wooden coasters that are personalized to your own taste. Learn to create graphic designs to engrave and cut using a CO2 laser like the Glowforge.

Class Description

Session 1 In the first session, students will be introduced to the world of graphic design with a focus on creating designs suitable for laser engraving wooden coasters. The session will begin with an overview of 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 coaster designs. The session will conclude with an assignment to create a simple coaster design using the skills learned. Session 2 The second session will delve deeper into Inkscape's features, teaching students advanced design techniques such as combining shapes, tracing images, and using layers effectively. Students will learn how to optimize their designs for laser engraving, including how to convert their designs into the correct file formats and how to set up their artwork with the proper cut and engrave lines. The session will end with students finalizing their coaster designs and preparing them for the laser engraving process. Session 3 In the final session, students will learn about the laser engraver settings and the manufacturing process. The instructor will explain the different settings on the laser engraver, such as power, speed, and focus, and how they affect the final product. Students will be guided through the process of using laser engraver software like Glowforge to input their designs and adjust settings for different materials. The session will include a live demonstration of the laser engraving process, and students will be given instructions on how to submit their designs for production. The class will conclude with a Q&A session to address any remaining questions.

Learning Goals

1) Understand basic graphic design principles and apply them to create aesthetically pleasing coaster designs. 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 coasters.

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/