In-Depth Intro to Laser Cutting [6 Week Intensive]
The Toronto Tool Library Makerspace
192 Spadina Ave, Toronto, ON M5T 2C2, Canada
Toronto
Ontario
43.64996829999999
-79.39754249999999
Suitable for beginners, this laser cutting course is designed to teach you all that you need to get started designing in 2D using Inkscape, then using a laser cutter to create original creations.
In this class, students will create 4 or more projects including A CLOCK, A PURSE/BAG, A BOOK COVER and A FOURTH PROJECT OF THE STUDENTS CHOOSING. There will be default templates to choose from but students are encouraged to customize them come up with their own designs. Students can select a larger project if they have the ability to make progress between classes by purchasing a membership.
Project 1: A Picture or Poster. up to 8"x10"
For a first project a simple poster can be cut out wood. We will explore different options and techniques
Project 2: Purse or Card Wallet
Students will learn to cut and etch leather as well as some simple leather working skills while working on a card wallet that can be embellished with laser cut or etched patterns.
Project 3: A binder or book cover that incorporates a living hinge.
Using a living hinge the class will create a hinged bookcover that can then be modified into one of many different applications ranging from a binder or clipboard to a wood case for electronic devices such as tablets or phones.
Project 4: A custom project of the student's choosing.
Students will be able to design and laser cut their very own creation.Projects will vary and often include several separate laser cut component.
*Note: There is a limited supply of materials included, so students choosing larger custom projects will need to provide the materials needed.
SUNDAYS, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm
Course Outline
Week 1
Introduction to Laser cutting and engraving.
-How it works
-What it can cut
-What it can etch
-What it cant do.
-Risks
-Maintenance.
Introduction to Inkscape
-SVG vs Bitmap
-Tracing and Converting to SVG
-2D Cad design.
Weeks 2
LESSON: Learning to manipulate SVG files and doing test cuts on different materials.
PROJECT: Clock Pt.1
Each student is encouraged to import or create a design to add a clock mechanism to.
Weeks 3
LESSON: Leatherworking techniques will be covered and students will be able to choose and modify standard templates.
Templates include a purse, wallet and keychain.
PROJECTS: Purse or Bag Pt. 1 and Clock Pt.2
(Students will get to take home the clock they made themselves.)
Week 4
LESSON: Using cut patterns students will learn to incorporate living hinges into woodworking projects.
Woodworking techniques and tools will be covered including cutting with a bandsaw, drilling and sanding.
PROJECT: Purse or Bag Pt.2 and Book Cover Pt.1
(Students will get to take home the clock they made themselves.)
Week 5 and 6
PROJECT: Book Cover and Personal Project.Students will have full use of the shop with full supervision, and 1 on 1 instruction available.Facilitator will work with students to complete their personal project in the remaining 4 hours of instruction.