Welcome to the Learn to Laser Cut and Engrave class!
This class has around 20 minutes of videos to teach you about the Glowforge and how to safely use the one available at the library.
Anyone can take this class, but in order to use the Glowforge you need to have a library card and register with the Idea Lab. If you don't have a library card, you can get one by visiting any branch with ID or by filling out the online card application below.
With your library card number, please fill out the Idea Lab agreement below.
Thank you!
Now that that's out of the way, click the “Videos” tab above to start the class. For each part of the class, watch all the videos under the “Videos” tab and read through the additional tabs to complete your certification.
For example in Part 1 there are four tabs to look through. The "Welcome" tab that you are currently on, the "Videos" tab, the "Pro vs Aura" tab and "Material Overview" tab. Make sure to go through all the tabs to complete this class!
Tabs look like this on the top of the section.
If you would like to follow along with the presentation we use for the in-person version of this class, print out the PDF below.
Once you begin, multiple videos will play one after the other. You can see what number video you’re on and how many are left in the playlist by putting your mouse over the video screen and looking at the numbers in the top right. Feel free to pause, go back, and rewatch any parts as you go. Enjoy!
Note: The Glowforge can cut some ½” (13mm) hardwood and acrylic; for best results, ¼” (6mm) or thinner materials are recommended.
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Glowforge Pro |
Glowforge Aura Coming Soon! |
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The Pro uses 45 watt CO2 laser |
The Aura uses a 6 watt diode laser |
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Faster than the Aura |
Slower than the Pro |
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External ventilation fan needs turned on. |
Ventilation turns on automatically. |
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Large material list to work with. |
Smaller material list to work with. |
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Great for bigger projects such as large engravings. |
Great for smaller projects such as keychains or earrings. |
Approved Materials for Glowforge Pro
Cut & Engrave
Engrave Only
Approved Materials for Glowforge Aura
Cut & Engrave
Engrave Only
Prohibited Materials!
The Glowforge Pro can cut some ½” (13mm) hardwood and acrylic; for best results, ¼” (6mm) or thinner materials are recommended.
In part 2 we will learn the following:
When you're ready, click over to the videos tab and start watching.
For a list of Glowforge design resources, including websites for finding designs and software for making your own designs, visit the "Designing for the Glowforge" section in the main menu of this guide.
Once you begin, multiple videos will play one after the other. You can see what number video you’re on and how many are left in the playlist by putting your mouse over the video screen and looking at the numbers in the top right. Feel free to pause, go back, and rewatch any parts as you go. Enjoy!
Raster Files
Raster files are made up of tiny boxes called pixels. When these files are enlarged they can sometimes get blurry or distorted.
Common file extensions for raster files are .jpeg and .png. The Glowforge can only ENGRAVE raster files.
Vector Files
Vector files are made using mathematical equations. Vector files remain clear when resized - they do not distort, pixelate, or lose any detail.
One common file extension for vector files is .svg. The Glowforge can CUT, SCORE & ENGRAVE vector files.
In part 3 we will learn the following:
When you're ready, click over to the videos tab and start watching.
In part 4 we will learn the following:
When you're ready, click over to the videos tab and start watching.
Once you begin, multiple videos will play one after the other. You can see what number video you’re on and how many are left in the playlist by putting your mouse over the video screen and looking at the numbers in the top right. Feel free to pause, go back, and rewatch any parts as you go. Enjoy!
You did it! You made it through our online certification class. Please fill out the form at the link below so we know you completed the online class!
When you come to the Idea Lab, you can finish the certification process by completing a safety check. The in-person check takes less than ten minutes to complete. Reserve the Glowforge for a ten minute time slot for a safety check.
You will also have the option to make a small keychain once you have completed the safety check. This is the project we offer during our in-person Glowforge classes and is optional. Reserve the Glowforge for a hour time slot for a safety check plus a keychain making session.
After the safety check, you will be certified to use the Glowforge.
Any comments or feedback on the class? Was there something missing or something else you think we should include? Let us know at the link below.