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Test Tube bud vase

3/4/2020

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Click HERE for the file!

Cutting File

Upload your file and line it up on your chosen material.  There is a tiny T on the top and a tiny B for the bottom pegs to make assembly easier.  This step is optional.Once you are ready hit the button and watch the magic happen!

You can use any material but please note that you may need to adjust the slots so they will fit properly.  

Assembly

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Lay out all 4 pieces.  If you engraved the T and B's then this step will be easier.

I started with the bottom and places both pegs into the base.  The base is the one with the smaller hole.

Next I flipped it over and placed the top pegs in the the top piece.

Last assembly step is to slide the test tube into place.  

Materials Used

(Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.)
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If you don't already have a glowforge what are you waiting for!  Click on the picture to a discount of up to $500 on your purchase!
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Any 1/8 inch material will work.  I used frosted acrylic and wood.
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This is the link to the test tubes I used.  Just click on the photo!
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Making pencil holder valentines on the glowforge

1/17/2020

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Here is the file link if you don't have it already.

File Link

Video Tutorial - See below for written tutorial and supply list

How to make pencil holder valentines on the glowforge

​I first made these a few years ago out of paper and thought they would look great in wood!  Here are a few easy steps to create your own!  I will add a list of the supplies I used at the end of the post!

Load design

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I've included a few versions for this file.  I have a version with a rounded edge and also each one has a file that can be engraved if you don't want to use htv or vinyl.

Cut Design

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Paint or stain pieces

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I wanted to match the colors on the pencils as closely as I could.  

I used Ultra Dye for the red and pink because I love the colors!  

For the white I used chalk paint.  Chalk paint seems to have better coverage and these only needed one coat.

You could also leave the wood natural.

Cut Vinyl Pieces - Skip this step if you engraved the arrows

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I used my cameo 4 to cut htv for my pieces. 

I like to use htv for small text because it is so much easier to weed and seems to last longer! 

​You can use any vinyl and cutting machine.

Add vinyl to arrows - Skip this step if you engraved the arrows

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I used my cricut mini press set on medium for 3-5 second on each one.

You can use sticky backed vinyl for this step as well if you would like.

Add pencils to finish valentines

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Slide the pencils into the holders and the valentines are all done!

Materials Used

(Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.)
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Glowforge

BUY
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Silhouette Cameo 4

BUY
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Cricut Mini Press

BUY
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Ultra Dye

BUY
I used Hot Pink and Infra Red.
They have small bottles also.
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Chalk Paint

BUY
Any white paint will work.
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Pencils

BUY
I bought mine at Hobby Lobby but the link is for similar pencils.
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How to outline and unite script text in adobe illustrator

1/15/2020

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One of my most frequent requests is how to weld script text when using Adobe Illustrator.  At the beginning I didn't know how easy it could be.  It's one of the easiest things to do in the program!  When I first started using Illustrator I would rasterize the text and then trace it.  Doing it that way works but it was hard to get a good crisp text.  It was extra steps and not a good outcome!  Here are the steps to get a good, clean and easy outline of your text (any text) and then unite them for laser or vinyl cutting.

Video Tutorial

Step 1 - Open a new document

I like to use a 19 x 10.75 inch artboard because that way I know that everything on the artboard will fit into the cut area of the glowforge. 
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Step 2 - Type your text

Choose the type tool from the toolbar and click anywhere on the artboard.
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Step 3 - Choose your font

I like hello wedding for a good font to use in my glowforge.
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Step 4 - Create Outlines

Click on the type menu at the top and choose create outlines.
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Step 5 - Unite

You can see in this photo that there are overlapping paths.  This means that each individual letter will cut out separately.  We need to unite the letters so that they cut all as one piece.
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You will want to have the pathfinder window open for this step.
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In the pathfinder window, choose unite.  This will make all of those overlapping paths unite as one.
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Step 6 - Check paths

I like to check my paths before I save.  This way you can see any open paths or any overlapping paths you may have missed.  You can do this by clearing the fill like in the photo below. 
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Step 7 - Save

Now you are ready to save.  Choose save as to save in any of the options.  If you need other options you can choose export instead.
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Here are the svg settings I use when saving.
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I Bought a glowforge, now what?

1/14/2020

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Did you finally hit that buy button and the anticipation and questions are driving you crazy?  I know that I was crazy nervous about lasers and what else I would need once it arrived.  Because let’s be honest when it finally reaches gets there you want to be able to play!  I’ve compiled a few things that I wish I would have known after I pushed that buy button.

What Comes with the Glowforge?

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The Glowforge comes with a few things in two boxes. 

The large box contains the Glowforge itself as well as the print head.  Note,  some models may be packed differently.  Remember to save all of your packing materials, even those little orange bits.  They are super important if you need to send the Glowforge in for any reason. 

The smaller box contains the crumb tray, vent hose and sample material.   In the some cases, depending on model, your box may contain laser safety glasses and pass through strips.

What else will I need?

Here is a list of my must have’s for any Glowforge owner!  (Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.)
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Calipers

These are to measure the true thickness of your material.
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Paper Transfer Tape

This is used to mask your material to prevent smoke and blowback from discoloring your project.  ONLY USE PAPER TAPE!
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Brayer

This use used to smooth the masking onto your material.  This help it get a good seal with less worries about lifting.
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Rotary Cutter and Mat

I use this to cut my masking to size.  
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Plastic Razor Blades

I use these for removing masking and they work great!
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Gorilla Tape

This is the best for removing masking on tough pieces!
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1 Inch Gorilla Tape

I like this for when I don't need a whole piece.
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Gorilla Super Glue

I love this glue because it sets fast and holds great!
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Weeding tool set
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Sanding Blocks

For smoothing.
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Tape Measure

Any will work, I like this retractable one.
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Zeiss Lens Wipes

For cleaning the lenses, mirrors and camera
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Disposable Mascara Wands

These work great for cleaning the fan cover and fans.

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So you want to buy a glowforge

1/13/2020

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It seems like the Glowforge Laser is everywhere these days!  We see the ads and all the amazing projects in our crafting groups.  But was is it really and what are things you can and cannot do?  

I've had my glowforge basic for about 18 months and use it daily.  Here are a few things to consider when making up your mind to hit the buy button! 

If you are in search of a code click  here to save little money here is mine! I will all receive credit from glowforge.

Which Glowforge should I choose?

Glowforge Basic - $2495

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The Glowforge Basic is a 40w Class 1 CO2 Laser.  You will need to vent the machine out of a window or buy purchasing an external filter. The Basic comes with a 6 month warranty period. 

Glowforge Plus - $3995

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The Glowforge Plus is a 40w Class 1 CO2 Laser.  You will need to vent the machine out of a window or buy purchasing an external filter. The Plus comes with a 1 year warranty period. ​ ​

Glowforge Pro - $5995

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The Glowforge Pro is a 45w Class 1 CO2 Laser.  You will need to vent the machine out of a window or buy purchasing an external filter. The Pro comes with a 2 year warranty period.   The Pro has a passthough slot allowing for much larger one piece projects than either the basic or plus. The higher power also allows for 3x the speed of the basic. 

Really the choice is yours.  They all cut/engrave the same types of material, with the pro able to cut/engrave  longer items.  I've cut larger items with the basic simply by cutting in sections.

What types of Material will the Glowforge cut/engrave

  • Plywood
  • Hard Woods
  • Leather
  • Acrylic
  • Cork
  • Fabric
  • Paper
  • Delrin (acetal)
  • Mylar
  • Rubber
  • Corian
  • Some Foods
  • Ceramic (Engrave only)
  • Coated Metal (Engrave only)
  • Glass (Engrave only)
  • Marble (Engrave only)
  • Anodized Aluminum (Engrave only)
  • Titanium (Engrave Only)
  • Some phones, tablets and laptops (engrave only)

What types of Material can the Glowforge NOT cut/engrave

  • PVC (Poly Vinyl Chloride)
  • Vinyl
  • Pleather
  • Artificial Leather
  • ABS
  • HDPE/Milk bottle plastic
  • Poly Styrene Foam
  • Poly Propylene Foam
  • Epoxy
  • Fiberglass
  • Coated Carbon Fiber

If you aren't certain about a material and can't find the answer in the forum there is a laser safe test you can perform.  When in doubt don't try it before testing!  Some material like Vinyl can produce toxic fumes!!!!

So Yes or No?

Once you have figured out what you want to do with a laser cutter it helps in narrowing down the three choices.  I knew that I didn't need the pass through for my projects so I went with the basic.  

My code to save a little on your purchase!

Each glowforge owner is given a referral code to help save a little money on each machine.  

Here is mine!!  

It will save you  $500 off of a pro, $250 off of a plus, or $100 off of a basic.  I will get the same credits as well!  And feel free to message me for any issues/tips!! 
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Troubleshooting scale in inkscape when opening svg's

11/4/2019

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Not all vector programs see things the same way.  Here are 3 of the most popular. 
While SVG files can be defined in real world units like mm and inch, but some vector programs convert these units into px (pixels). Unfortunately, some programs assume different pixel density. 

Illustrator assumes 72 pixels per inch
Inkscape assumes  96 pixels per inch
Corel Draw assumes  72 pixels per inch

I have found that the easiest way to fix this when opening SVG's in Inkscape that were created in Illustrator, is go to to:
File>Document Properties>display units = inches
Then change the file's scale to 72 pixels per inch.

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Cutting and Assembling the Advent Callendar

10/15/2019

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Base Construction

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​1. Layout pieces like the diagram.
​2. Begin by placing pieces A to color coded slots.
3. Place piece B into color coded slots.
4. Place pieces C into color coded slots.
5. Place pieces D into color coded slots.
6. Place Piece E to finish inside base.
​7. Place Sides onto base.

Drawer Construction

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​All Drawers are the same size.

1. Fit side A to base.  
2. Fit the front piece to base and Side A.
3. Fit side B to base and front piece.
4. Fit back side to base and sides.

Embelishments

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​1. Mask and cut all embellishment pieces. 
   (Note copy and paste stockings as needed)
2. Paint pieces as desired.
3. Fit Front piece to base.
4. Glue top pieces onto base.
5. Glue Background piece into space. 
   (I use settings Speed 500 Power 30 for paper)
6. Glue embellishment pieces in place.
7. Add lights to top if desired.

Tools and Supplies

If you don't have a glowforge yet here is a link to save you $500 off of a Pro, $250 off of a Plus and $100 off of a Basic. 
Advent Calendar 2 inch -Here
Advent Calendar 3 inch -Here
Rotary Cutter and Mat Set - https://amzn.to/313EEVQ
Brayer - https://amzn.to/35uI083
Masking Material - https://amzn.to/2OA1QbG 
Plywood Sheets - https://amzn.to/3152wbM 
Glue - https://amzn.to/2MyV9V0
Small Hammer-https://amzn.to/329Kcjf
Paint- any craft paint
Air Brush (Optional)-https://amzn.to/35noiLn
Scrapbook paper for background
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Christmas tree Countdown Blocks Assembly

10/12/2019

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Supplies Needed

If you don't have a glowforge yet here is a link to save you $500 off of a Pro, $250 off of a Plus and $100 off of a Basic. 
Christmas Tree Countdown Blocks File -Here
Rotary Cutter and Mat Set - https://amzn.to/313EEVQ
Brayer - https://amzn.to/35uI083
Masking Material - https://amzn.to/2OA1QbG 
Plywood Sheets - https://amzn.to/3152wbM 
Glue - https://amzn.to/2MyV9V0
Small Hammer-https://amzn.to/329Kcjf
Paint- any craft paint
Air Brush (Optional)-https://amzn.to/35noiLn
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Rustic Layered Ornaments

10/10/2019

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Supplies for this Project

If you don't have a glowforge yet here is a link to save you $500 off of a Pro, $250 off of a Plus and $100 off of a Basic. 
Rustic Ornament Laser File - Here
Rotary Cutter and Mat Set - https://amzn.to/313EEVQ
Masking Material - https://amzn.to/2OA1QbG 
Plywood Sheets - https://amzn.to/3152wbM 
Xyron Creative Station - https://amzn.to/33heUXF
Glue - https://amzn.to/2MyV9V0
Clamps - https://amzn.to/323XePa
Wooden Beads - Hobby Lobby
Paper Pack - The Paper Studio Hobby Lobby
Cord - Hemp Cord

Step 1 : Choose your background Paper

Any paper will work.  I chose a plaid pack because I love plaid!
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Step 2 : Load Paper into the Glowforge

If you don't have a special mat for cutting paper magnets work great!
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Step 3 : Cut all pieces for the Background

Here are my Settings
Speed 500
Power 30
​Depth .003

Step 4 : Add Adhesive to Paper Pieces

I use a Xyron Creative Staiton that makes projects like this so much easier!  You can use glue as well if you don't have a sticker maker.
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Step 5 : Mask your wood piece

I always mask with paper tape.  A brayer, rotary cutter and mat help this step go quickly and smoothly without the tape lifting during cutting.

Step 6 : Cut Pieces

For .125" wood I use settings 
Speed 200
Power Full
​Depth .125

Step 7 : Add Background paper to each base.

If you don't have a sticker maker glue will work just as well for this step.

Step 8 : Glue Front Piece onto Base

I like to use Gorilla Super Glue but any glue that you like to use will work for this step.

Step 9 : Glue Center Pieces

I like to lay my pieces out before I glue so I know what placement works best for my project.

Step 10 : Complete Ornament with beads and cord.

I really liked the wooden beads on the ornament string but they are completely optional.  I used hemp cord for the rustic look.
This post may include affiliate links. This does not mean it will cost you anymore, I may just receive a small commission for the referral.
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Magic Time - Cutting and Assembling your Box

5/1/2019

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Now it's Magic Time!  Just have to send the file to the Glowforge and Assemble  your Design!

Steps for this Are Easy! Here is a short video.

Steps:

1. Gather your supplies.  Here I have my masking, brayer and rotary cutter.

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2.  Mask your material.

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3. Load your Material into the Glowforge.

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4. Magic Time.  Press the button and watch the magic.

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5. Remove Masking

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6. Assemble the Top and Bottom Sections.

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7. Enjoy!

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Parts 1 and 2

Part 1 - Using the Box-O-Matic App
Part 2 - Editing Design in Adobe Illustrator
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    Welcome! I hope you find some fun info within my crazy ramblings.  I love to create things and to write so this is the perfect way to combine them!  I hope you find something you love in my files, info, tutorials and more!

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Design Shark Shop  has no affiliation with Cricut or Silhouette America or Glowforge. 
Cricut is a registered trademark of Provo Craft and Novelty, Inc.
Silhouette Studio is a registered trademark of Silhouette America, Inc.
Glowforge is a registered trademark of Glowforge, Inc.

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