Makerspace Students
Laser Engraving
in the Makerspace
This week in the makerspace, students used the Glowforge laser engraving machines to prototype projects completely on their own — a first for this cohort. Working with wood, acrylic, and different kinds of paper, students dove into the full prototyping process: troubleshooting, trial and error, and learning the careful balance of laser heat and speed for each material.
It takes several tests before arriving at a final product — and that process is exactly the point.
Using professional graphic design and laser cutting software to create files ready for the machine.
Testing laser heat and speed combinations across materials — wood, acrylic, textiles, and paper — to find the right balance.
From test cuts to final product — applying engineering thinking to real-world fabrication challenges.
CREATE Makerspace Lab
The CREATE Makerspace lab's current focus is learning how to use laser engraving and laser cutting machines. This includes learning how to use professional design software, laser cutting and engraving software, and use of materials such as acrylic, textiles, wood, and more.
With mastery of these fundamentals, our lab will examine real-world and engineering challenges to fabricate and prototype practical solutions. Other intersections to be explored are between Makerspace technologies and AI, as well as Makerspace technologies and art.
