Beyond The Sprues
Modelling => Tips, Tools & Techniques => Topic started by: dwtaylor0 on March 29, 2025, 09:36:51 AM
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Hello all,
I was curious if anyone had things they've had success in using a laser cutter for doing? The 2D nature makes it less useful than a 3D printer or the like, but I have access to one so i figured I'd ask.
To me the obvious:
-stencils/masks
-cutting pieces of material to stick sandpaper onto for custom sized sanding sticks
-cutting building frames for diorama constructions
-engraving nameplates for dioramas and displays
-cutting plasticard/sheet styrene is possible but the cut edges are pretty rough and it leaves a lot of 'crud' on the machine
I'm sure there's others, my imagination is failing me
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There's a youtube channel about a German company that specialises in it, they make entire cantilever riveted bridges that they sell as kits.
https://www.youtube.com/@lasercreation-world1981 (https://www.youtube.com/@lasercreation-world1981)
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His videos are amazing! I don't think you can cut styrene easily (or safely) with a laser, but you could cut out paper model patterns and make a 3D object from the flat sheets.
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One thing I've come up with is using engraving in order to create an embossing template.
engrave everything but the desired pattern, then transfer the pattern to foil and boom!
I still need to work some kinks out and sort some details, nevertheless seems promising.