Laser Cutting

Workshop Steps

💬 Class Discussion:

How do we turn a digital design into a real object? 🧠

Why do precision, measurement, and shape matter in design? 📏

🪵 Step 1: Measure & Brainstorm

Measure your rectangle and circle wood pieces using a ruler. Think about what you want to create:

  • What will you turn your rectangle into? (Name tag, ID badge, keychain?)

  • 🧩 20 Rectangle Project Ideas

    1. Name Tag – Engrave your name with custom font and icon

    2. Inspirational Quote Keychain – Short, uplifting messages

    3. Pet ID Tag – Add a pet’s name and paw print

    4. Mini Ruler – Mark basic inch or centimeter measurements

    5. Backpack Tag – Personal identifier with school logo or emoji

    6. Game Controller Label – Add a gamertag or logo for fun flair

    7. Plant Marker – Engrave a plant name and small graphic for gardens

    8. Wi-Fi Password Tag – Handy reference for home or classroom

    9. Mini Calendar – A single-month or full-year mini calendar

    10. Favorite Book or Movie Quote – Laser your top line from a story

    11. Doodle Art Tag – Abstract shapes, patterns, or hand-drawn style

    12. Barcode or QR Code – Link to a portfolio, website, or hidden message

    13. School Spirit Tag – School name, mascot, or graduation year

    14. Friendship Token – Give one half to a friend (design to match when together)

    15. Mini Business Card – Custom engraved with name and fun fact

    16. Puzzle Piece Keychain – Design one that fits into others

    17. Room Label – Use for lockers, desks, or bedroom decor

    18. Mindfulness Reminder – A grounding word like “breathe” or “focus”

    19. Custom Barcode Art – Stylize lines and patterns like a faux barcode

    20. Digital Name Badge – Add icons for hobbies or future careers

  • What could the circle become? (Medallion, emoji, mini face?) 

  • 🎨 20 Circle Project Ideas

    1. Holiday Ornament – Add name, date, or custom art (Christmas, Diwali, Eid, etc.)

    2. Animal Face – Create a cat, dog, panda, or any favorite animal

    3. Emoji Badge – Choose your favorite emoji and recreate it with engraving

    4. Mini Mandala – Use geometric symmetry to make a patterned design

    5. Sports Logo – Recreate a favorite team logo or mascot

    6. Space-Themed Medallion – Engrave planets, stars, or a rocket

    7. Zodiac Sign Charm – Personalize with astrological symbols

    8. Tree Slice Art – Make it look like a wood slice with engraved rings

    9. Sun & Moon Design – Explore opposites or symmetry in design

    10. Positive Quote Token – Engrave a short quote or uplifting word

    11. Dream Catcher Motif – Layered or laced pattern with hanging feathers

    12. Music Symbol Ornament – Treble clef, notes, or favorite lyrics

    13. Yin-Yang Design – Use contrast and balance in layout

    14. Pet Tag – Add a pet’s name and a paw print (even if not for real use)

    15. Maze Puzzle – Design a small engraved maze (use pencil to solve)

    16. Plant/Leaf Imprint – Engrave detailed leaves or flower patterns

    17. Optical Illusion Art – Try abstract lines or spirals that pop visually

    18. Compass or Map Token – Include a favorite place or direction

    19. Custom Game Piece – Token for D&D, board game, or spinner

    20. “Power Symbol” Medallion – Use pop culture symbols (lightning bolt, superhero logo)

Sketch or talk through a few ideas before you open Tinkercad.

🖥️ Step 2: Build in Tinkercad

Log into Tinkercad and:

  • Design your shape using text, icons, and outlines

  • For the circle, explore symmetry or engraving details

  • Export your final design as an SVG for laser cutting

🔥 Step 3: Laser Cut with Glowforge

  • Upload your SVG to this form

  • Double-check size and placement

  • Cut your piece 

  • While others cut, begin decorating your finished piece

🎨 Step 4: Decorate & Detail

Use markers or paint pens to color engraved lines or add highlights. Add keyrings if desired.

🎉 Game Breaks

  • Defying Gravity: Keep 1–3 balloons in the air using only one hand

  • Face the Cookie: Move an Oreo from your forehead to your mouth—no hands!

  • Link to Minute to Win it slides

🖼️ Step 5: Showcase & Reflect

  • Gallery walk: display and view each other’s creations

  • Reflect: What worked well? What would you change?

  • What real-world careers use these skills?

Career Connections

This workshop introduces real-world design and tech careers, including:

  • Product Design

  • Graphic Design

  • Industrial Engineering

  • Manufacturing Tech

  • Architecture & Urban Design

  • STEM Education

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