Learn Inkscape for Glowforge Laser Cutter
What you'll learn
- Design using Inkscape
- Generate vector graphics (SVG files)
- Run a Glowforge laser cutter
Requirements
- Download the free program Inkscape to your computer.
- Access to a Glowforge or other laser cutter.
- I am using the PC version 0.92.2 of Inkscape. Mac version differs a bit and I have added a few notes for Mac users to help guide you.
Description
Interested in laser cutting? Learn how to program Inkscape for a Glowforge laser cutter. If you have a Glowforge at your school, library, work, maker space, church, or home and want to learn how to program SVG cut paths, or advance your ability to design for laser cutting, this course is for you. We start out by downloading the free vector program: Inkscape. Then I provide a Glowforge Template for you to use for your first project. You will learn how to import images and photos for laser engraving, scoring, cut out text and words, and how to use color in Inkscape to organize your tasks later on in the Glowforge App. In no time strange new items once only in your imagination will be in your two hands. Take this laser cutting course to learn how to use Inkscape to harness the awesome power of a Glowforge! You could easily apply this knowledge to any laser cutter requiring SVG files.
All the projects in these videos can be done using Medium size Proof Grade 1/8" plywood or draft board from the Glowforge shop.
Course shows the PC version 0.92.2 of Inkscape. Notes are provided where the Mac version differs.
Who this course is for:
- Makers
- Artists
- Teachers
- Anyone who wants to get more from their laser cutter.
Course content
1 lecture • 1minIntroduction to Inkscape for Glowforge
- Preview00:59
1 lecture • 3minDownload Inkscape & Create A Glowforge Template
1 lecture • 4minMaking nodes on the grid
1 lecture • 8minCreating Curves and Shapes
1 lecture • 11minUsing color in Inkscape to create layers in Glowforge App
1 lecture • 6minEngrave, Cut, and Score
1 lecture • 19minConverting Text to Vector
1 lecture • 12minLaser Engraving a Photo
1 lecture • 16minCreating a Design with Multiple Parts
1 lecture • 10minCreating Fills to Engrave
Instructor
![J.E. Moores](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 64 64"%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=avatar}
- 3.6 Instructor Rating
- 10 Reviews
- 76 Students
- 2 Courses
I have taught arts and crafts to kids between the ages of 8-15 since 1984. I like to create modern takes of old wooden folk toys by designing toys and games for my Glowforge laser cutter. The blend of old fashioned ideas made on modern equipment gives the work a whole new feel. Toys and games are a great way to expose people to technology, especially kids. The playfulness helps to decrease the intimidation of learning how to use the high tech gear. Your brain keeps thinking, "we're just playing, right?" it doesn't know how much it is learning! I hope to help others learn how to program for Glowforge, it's so much fun.
Oh yeah, I live in Maine. It is cold here.