Introduction: Lasercut Photo Cut Out!

A fun way to have a photo of your favorite friend with you...

Step 1: Choose Photo

Pick a good photo with clean profile. I adjusted the color balance and rotated the image in Photoshop. Next I cropped and sized the image to 8 x 10 inches. This is the size photo print I chose to make. I made one version right facing and the next facing the opposite direction (flip horizontal).

Step 2: Draw Outline of Shape

In Illustrator, I drew an outline of the profile of my photo. I also added a base and two stand parts. The outlines are what will be used by the laser to cut the shapes. Hint, be sure the slits for the support tabs are the same width as the board itself.

Step 3: Glue Photos to Board

I had one version of each photo - right facing and left facing. I glued them (back to back) to some heavy board. I put the glued pieces under weights overnight to glue tight and flat. (I used bookbinding glue because it dries clear and does not warp.)

Step 4: Cut It Out!

The board with glued photos is cut on the laser!

Step 5: Assemble, Enjoy, Make More!

Put the tabs into the bottom to make stands... then make a friend!  I made this at TechShop in Menlo Park!