Laser Cutting & Engraving
Laser cutters make it easy to cut and engrave materials like wood, acrylic, leather, glass, and metal. 2D parts cut on the laser cutters can be assembled into 3D objects. They are ideal for beginners and experienced makers as they help turn simple designs into creative projects.
About the Equipment
Do Space at Abrahams Branch offers the xTool P2S Laser Cutter.
The xTool P2S Laser Cutter/Engraver has a build volume of 23.6” x 12” x 8.46” and features a 55 Watt CO2 Laser. A rotary attachment is available upon request. This machine uses xTool Creative Space.
Using the Equipment
- You may reserve up to four hours per week.
- You must stay with the machine for the duration of your reservation.
- A design in one of these file types: *.pdf; *.svg; *.ai; *.png; *.jpg; *.jpeg; *.bmp; *.tsf; *.tld; *.tlj; *.zip; *.cdr; or *dxf.
- We suggest bringing your file on a storage device (USB) or accessing it via cloud storage.
- The material you are using for your design.
- Some materials will not be permitted. View this document for a complete list of materials you can and cannot bring.
- We recommend that you bring only replaceable materials. Avoid bringing antiques, heirlooms or anything else of high monetary or sentimental value.
Laser Cutting & Engraving FAQs
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No, but you can use xTool P2S to engrave on coated metal, anodized aluminum alloy, and titanium steel. For stainless steel, you need to spray a coating on it before engraving it.
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The rotary attachment supports cylinders with diameters up to 180 mm.
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No. Files generated by third-party applications or design software cannot be imported directly into XCS. They must be converted into a supported format before import.
To process files from third-party sources in XCS, export your design as one of the following file formats: SVG, DXF, PNG, JPG, JPEG, or BMP. Once exported, you can then import the converted file into XCS for further editing and processing.
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Yes, please allow proper drying/curing times to avoid excess fumes and limit flammability. Most common water-based, acrylic, and oil-based finishes are acceptable.
Resources & Tutorials
Learn About Laser Cutting & Engraving
Create Your Design
- xTool Creative Space: free software specifically designed for xTools machines that includes pre-designed templates
- xTool Academy: free online learning platform provided by xTool that offers tutorials, project guides, and tips for using laser cutting and engraving machines
- Inkscape: free, open-source vector editing program similar to Adobe Illustrator
Explore Materials
- Inventables: a resource for purchasing approved materials for laser cutting
- xTool Materials Shop
- Glowforge Shop
- Craft Closet
- Houston Acrylic: specialize in premium CO2 laser friendly materials
- Midwest Plastics: local Omaha business that stocks cast acrylic sheets in clear, transparent and solid colors
