Start Laser Cutting With Confidence
Online Course
A Course that Cuts Just Deep Enough, No Matter Your Goals and Experience
Are you a creative or educator looking for a comprehensive foundation in laser cutting, including how to create vector files in Adobe Illustrator? Magically, this course benefits both willing novices and seasoned pros ready to take the next step . . . at least that’s what previous participants tell us.
In this course, you will:
● Learn the essential tools for creating laser-cutting files in Adobe Illustrator.
● Learn the unique characteristics of laser cutting and engraving paper, acrylic, and wood.
● Design a series of projects to laser cut and engrave in a variety of materials. (Novices have been surprised at how fast they progressed, and experienced participants found game-changing hints, tips, and coaching.)
● Build a library of custom settings for different materials and effects. (Why think it through from scratch every time?)
● Discover a wide variety of laser cutting applications for creatives, artists, and designers. (We’ve never had a class without a “Gee, I never thought of that” reaction from someone.)
● Identify laser-safe materials and find out where to buy them.
Course project: Create a “laser cutting box of curiosities”
Learn a range of laser cutting techniques and how to create laser cutting files through a series of projects. Follow along or design your own. Project files and templates are provided so you won’t fall behind.
Did you know that not all tools in Adobe Illustrator are laser-friendly? Instead of wasting time learning tools we can’t use, we’ll focus on the essential tools for creating laser-cutting files. Through step-by-step tutorials, you’ll create projects connected to specific laser-cutting processes and materials, because knowledge sticks better when it’s linked to a creative project. You’ll have all of the tutorials’ confidence-inspiring guides right there when you need them.
Depending on your experience level, you can design projects by following along, using or adapting pre-made files, or designing your own. We love working with each process, and everyone learns from fellow participants.
In the second part of this course, we’ll take a deep dive into laser cutting and engraving paper, wood, and acrylic. Heat affects each of these materials differently. When we harness that heat by understanding the importance of manual settings, we begin to use the laser in ever-evolving ways. You’ll learn everything at a pace consistent with your steadily building confidence.
And there is no need to feel overwhelmed!
This self-guided course includes regular access to me via live Q&A sessions which creates the perfect balance of independent learning and instructive guidance.
I wanted to learn laser cutting and engraving so I could use them in my classes, but I didn't know where to start. Honestly, I was initially overwhelmed by the laser cutter and having to learn Adobe Illustrator, but Sarah provided excellent step-by-step instructions, as well as handouts. She was also willing to adapt her workshop on the fly to accommodate the needs of the participants. Sarah is VERY generous with her time and knowledge.
After working with Sarah, I felt empowered and much more at ease with the laser cutter. And I was eager to do more laser cutting!
~ Janet Ballweg, Professor at Bowling Green State University
Course Format
● 7 self-paced modules dropping Thursdays, Jun 8, 15, 22, 29, Jul 6, 13, 20 & 27, 2023
Learn the secrets behind laser cutting and engraving paper, wood, and acrylic. Plus, how to create laser-cutting files with pre-recorded videos you can watch over and over again.
● 8 hour-long live Zoom sessions Wednesdays, Jun 7, 14, 21, 28, Jul 5, 12, 19, 26, & Aug 2, 2023 @ 4:00 EDT.
Connect with Sarah and fellow artists to make sure you’re confident with the process as you develop your own laser-cutting projects.
Live sessions will be recorded for participants who can’t make it and for those who wish to review the conversation later. You can submit questions in advance if you can’t make it and I will answer them live.
Experience Level
Experienced beginner: Capable of operating laser cutter. Beginner in Illustrator or working knowledge of Photoshop or InDesign.
Technology & Materials
Laser cutter, Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop CC, Zoom. Materials list, here.
Cost
$597.00
$682.00 ( $597 course + $85 materials kit) USA only. Register by May 31, 2023
You will leave this course with the enthusiasm and problem-solving skills to take your laser cutting further. And CONFIDENCE. Did we mention confidence?
This course is for you if you are
● A creative looking to jump start your laser cutting journey
● An educator dreaming of incorporating laser cutting into your classes, but overwhelmed with learning another new technology
● Tired of spending more time struggling with Adobe Illustrator than laser cutting
● A relative novice who wants to learn insider tips and techniques
● A seasoned veteran laser cutter who got that way by always being open to new information and techniques
The path to laser cutting confidence!
Module 0: Getting Started
● Welcome & course introduction
● Laser Cutting 101
Module 1: Illustrator
● Learn how to navigate Illustrator, basic tools, and color-mapping for cutting, scoring, and engraving
● Create files for laser engraved paper lantern and laser cut pop-up
Module 2: Paper
● Laser cutter safety
● How to reduce burn
● Laser cutter settings for paper
● Cut and engrave your paper projects!
Module 3: Illustrator
● Learn how to work with text and stencilizing
● Create files for box top, acrylic sign, and Mylar stencil
Module 4: Acrylic
● What materials are laser-safe and those you should never use
● How to create a sand-blasted look
● Solutions for common problems working with acrylic
● Laser cutter settings for acrylic
● Cut and engrave your acrylic projects!
Module 5: Illustrator
● Learn how to adjust for kerf loss and make interlocking pieces
● Advanced color-mapping
● Turn hand-drawn or digital line art a vector
● Create files for wood engraving and plant holder
Module 6: Wood
● Expand your options by adjusting the z-axis
● Understand kerf loss
● How to reduce burn and solutions to other common problems
● Laser cutting setting for wood
● Cut and engrave your wood projects and assemble your box!
Module 7: Registration & Beyond
● Learn how to trace and create registration templates in Illustrator
● How to achieve perfect registration
● Easy jigs for 2D and 3D objects
● Insider tips!
Alicia Bailey—Deeping Experience and Branching Out
My laser cutting vocabulary has expanded exponentially. Having a deeper understanding of materials and laser cutter settings has opened me up to new ways of doing things. Instead of repeating the same process over and over again, I’ve learned how to discover and apply different approaches giving me more options in how a project turns out. This course has prepared me to follow my curiosity and take what I’ve learned further.
Hi, I’m Sarah, artist and laser cutting specialist.
When I started laser cutting I knew nothing! I could barely make a file in Adobe Illustrator and had no experience working with digital technology. Plus, the “how to” resources in 2012 for laser cutting were practically non-existent.
I was an artist learning laser cutting through trial and error, but you don’t have to!
In this course, I take a decade’s worth of knowledge and synthesize it into 8 digestible modules that teach you the essentials for creating laser-cutting files without the inapplicable stuff you’d get in a general Illustrator tutorial.
You’ll learn how to find custom settings for specific materials and images so that you can problem-solve and expand your creative endeavors beyond this course. I’ll give you insider information on how to solve common problems and how to think through common troubleshooting issues.
I believe that the key to learning is not the ability to follow instructions but understanding the why and how so you can problem solve and develop your own creative ideas as your work evolves.
I can’t wait to share my experience with you!
FAQ
What is your refund policy? I want you to be fully satisfied. If after participating in Module 1 you realize this course isn’t a good match for you, send an email to sarah@freefall-laser.com. Refund deadline: June 13, 2023. Refunds will not be granted after this date or before the course starts. Once the refund is granted you will lose access to the course. Participation includes watching all the Module 1 videos and completing at least one project file to the best of your ability.
How long will I have access to the course? You’ll have lifetime access to this course.
What is in the material kit? Everything you need for this course without the stress of having to source from multiple suppliers! Material kit includes: Masa Japanese paper, cardstock, assortment of additional papers, frosted Mylar, clear cast acrylic, colored cast acrylic, 1/8” plywood. Materials not included: painter’s tape, Gorilla tape, semi-transparent mask, glue, and flameless candle. See Materials List, here. Shipping for USA only. Contact Sarah, sarah@freefall-laser.com for shipping to Canada and expect an additional cost of $40 - 60+.
I just got a laser cutter! Will this workshop teach me how to use it? No. With the number of different brands of laser cutters out there, it is impossible to provide individual instructions on each one. While the workshop will cover basic laser cutting operations, you are responsible for knowing how to operate your laser cutter or having access to someone who can help you.
How much of a time commitment does this workshop take during the week? To fully participate in this course, expect to spend at least 5 hours working between sessions. If you are looking to take a deep dive and get the most you can out of this workshop expect to be putting in more time between sessions.
How do I receive Professional Development Credit? First, select the “3-credit” option when registering. Second, watch every video and submit completed projects by August 9, 2023. Submission guidelines: In a zip file submit a laser cutting file (AI or PDF) and a photo of each project (JPEG). Certificate granted once the submission has been reviewed.
Can I take this course if I have no experience with Adobe Illustrator? Yes, if you have experience in Photoshop or InDesign. Expect that your learning curve will be greater. You will have access to laser-ready project files to use during the laser cutting modules if you are not confident in making your own files.
Can I take this course if I use InkScape or CorelDraw? Yes, if you can work independently in another vector based program. All instructions will be in Adobe Illustrator and I am not able to instruct in InkScape or CorelDraw at this time.
Can I use this course (videos, download, content) in my classroom? The short answer is no. You are purchasing a non-transferable, one-person license to this course. I would love to talk with you about the opportunity to purchase an institutional subscription to the course or work with your students virtually or in person. Please contact me at sarah@freefall-laser.com
What kind of laser cutter do you have? Universal VLS 6.60.
Will I be able to apply what I learn if I have an Epilog/Glowforge/Trotec/Full Spectrum/Boss laser cutter? Yes. The laser cutting techniques covered in this course should be applicable to other brands of laser cutters. I do my best to make my handouts as universal as possible, but you may need to make some modifications based on your laser cutter’s specific operating system. New brands of “at home” laser cutters are coming out every year and their workflows may differ from the industry standard set by the brands above.
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