Cool, the library has a laser cutter! So, what does it do?
Laser cutters make almost anything, with lines of top-notch delicacy and precision. Clever artists have managed to craft moving pieces with wood, as you'll see in today's project: a wooden planner with a "living hinge." This method uses an interlocking series of cuts in the wood, allowing it to bend!
Step 1: Prep!
Find Your File. The internet abounds with generous laser artists who share their files online, either for free or at low cost. Find an .SVG file that works for you and download it to a USB drive.
Find Your Materials. Check our approved list of Laser Cutter Materials, opens a new window. If you choose acrylic, the material must feature a manufacturer's sticker proving its chemical makeup.
Step 2: Make Your Reservation
Reserve Your Spot! Go to Reserve Laser Cutter, opens a new window.
Select Your START Time. Click on the time you'd like to start, and the system will automatically reserve you for 1 hour.
Confirm Your END Time. Click the expanding window and review the available options. Each patron may reserve up to 2 hours per day. Click "Submit Times," and you're ready to go!
Step 3: Fire the Laser!
Wait, but First ... Check in at the Level 2 information desk with your photo ID and USB. Read Operating Epilog Laser, opens a new window thoroughly, and ensure that you understand all safety procedures.
Upload to Inkscape. Make sure that you follow the instructions and guidelines carefully. A project cannot be stopped and "picked up" another day, so aim true the first time!
Follow the Instructions. Stay near the laser cutter at all times and monitor for problems. Remember: the laser is a serious tool, and only adults may use it.
Step 4: Mission Accomplished
Remove Your Work. Today's project only took 12 minutes for the laser to cut! If there are soot marks on your material, these can be removed with soap and water.
Decorate and Accessorize! Brush on some paint or wood stain, glue in a binder spine and some 3D-printed decorations, add pages, and you're done! You can even print your pages on-site using Printing from Your Device at FPL., opens a new window
Curious about how to make those cool 3D print decorations on the cover? Keep an eye out for the next blog in this series: 3D Printing, but Make it *Fancy*.
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