This is a tutorial for some laser cut bookends. These instructions are assuming that you are using the Universal Lasers @ TechShop Chandler, and that you have taken the SBU and are familiar with how to operate the machine.

For more information on the TechShop or to schedule a class, visit techshop.ws.

bookends.AI
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Step 1: Gather Materials

For this project, you will need the Illustrator file provided, and a sheet of .22"-.5" thick PlexiGlass. I will be using .22", but thicker Plexi would make for a more stable bookend.

Step 2: Customize File & Print

Open up the Illustrator file. You may need to adjust the space in between the hook and the rest of the bookend. It should be a space that is equal to the thickness of the shelf.

Once you have made the adjustment, go ahead and print from Illustrator to the laser program. From the print screen in Illustrator, make sure to hit "Setup" and "Preferences" to access the laser settings. Set your material height (.22"), and choose Acrylic for the material. Make sure to hit apply, and once you are back in the print dialog, hit "Print"

Step 3: Setup Material and Print to Laser

Place the PlexiGlass on the laser bed.

Once in the Laser Control Panel, use the "Focus View" option to move the laser head to the spot on the material that you want to start cutting at. Then use the "Relocate" option to move the image to where the pointer is positioned. To do this, select the grab point on the image that you want to line up with the start point, and then hit "To Pointer" in the bottom right hand corner of the screen.

At this point, you are ready to start the file printing. Go ahead and press the big, green Play button.