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