The Epilog Mini 24 laser cutter utilises a high powered laser to make precision cuts in a variety of materials, from paper and wood to acrylic and glass. With a convenient table size of 24" x 12" (610 x 305 mm), the Mini 24 is the perfect size to fit pre-cut laserable materials The laser is accurate to 1/100 of an inch (.01 inches), which allows it to cut very complex, intricate designs. The laser can be programmed to either engrave (raster cut) the surface of the material or cut through the material (vector cut).

What software can I use?

The Laser Cutter is controlled by a PC, and the preferred file type for cutting and/ or engraving is .pdf. The image files can be created within the FabLab using Inkscape – an open source 2d design software, or generated at home before you come to the Lab using any 2d design software package including Illustrator, Photoshop or Corel Draw. There are a few design principles that need to be adhered to in order for the laser cutter to differentiate between raster and vector cuts, so talk to us before you attempt to cut your design.

What materials can I use?

The current laser cutter has a cutting bed that measures 600 x 300 mm. There is no space for oversized materials within the machine, so materials must be cut to this size prior to using the laser cutter. We keep a stock of 3 and 5mm acrylic in various colours along with plywood and laserable mdf at various thicknesses. However, this is a Lab, and if you want to experiment with other materials we are only too happy to help.

Approved materials include:

• Cardboard,
• Laserable Fiberboard/MDF,
• Wood,
• Glass,
• Acrylic,
• Cork and
• Leather.

Unsuitable Materials:

• PVC,
• Metal.