This document compiles external resources related to computer-controlled cutting (laser cutting, vinyl cutting, and similar 2D cutting workflows).
Laser Cutting – Concepts & Basics
- Laser Cutting (Wikipedia): Overview of laser cutting principles, materials, applications, and history.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laser_cutting - CNC Concepts – Laser Cutting Basics: Introductory explanation of how CNC laser cutters work, including beam focus, speed, and power.
https://www.cnccookbook.com/laser-cutting-guide/
Laser Cutting – Machine Vendors & Manuals
- Trotec Laser: Major manufacturer of laser cutters and engravers; site includes machine specs, materials, and application examples.
https://www.troteclaser.com - Epilog Laser: Laser engraving and cutting systems commonly used in fab labs; includes manuals and sample projects.
https://www.epiloglaser.com - Universal Laser Systems: COâ‚‚ laser systems with detailed technical documentation and materials database.
https://www.ulsinc.com - Glowforge: Desktop laser cutter aimed at makers and educators; site includes beginner-friendly projects.
https://glowforge.com
Laser Cutting – Workflow & Software
- Inkscape: Free vector design tool widely used to create laser cutting files (SVG, DXF).
https://inkscape.org - LightBurn: Commercial laser control software that connects directly to many desktop lasers for cutting and engraving.
https://lightburnsoftware.com - K40 Whisperer: Free, open-source control software for many low-cost K40-style laser cutters.
https://scorchworks.com/K40whisperer/k40whisperer.html - RDWorks Beginner Guide: Introductory tutorials for RDWorks, the control software used by many Ruida-based lasers.
https://rdworkslab.com
Vinyl Cutting – Concepts & Machines
- Vinyl Cutter (Wikipedia): Short explanation of vinyl cutters, how they work, and common uses.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vinyl_cutter - Roland DG – Vinyl Cutters: Vinyl cutting plotters used for signage, decals, and stencils, with manuals and sample projects.
https://www.rolanddga.com/products/vinyl-cutters - Cricut Learn: Beginner-friendly tutorials for Cricut cutting machines, useful for youth-friendly vinyl and paper projects.
https://learn.cricut.com
Vinyl Cutting – Software & File Prep
- Inkscape for Vinyl Cutting: Tutorials on using Inkscape to design cut paths, prepare text, and export to vinyl cutters.
https://inkscape.org/learn/tutorials - Sure Cuts A Lot (SCAL): Software for sending designs to many hobby vinyl cutters; useful for classroom and maker projects.
https://surecutsalot.com
Design for Cutting – Joints, Kerf & Parametric Kits
- Press-Fit Construction Kits (Example from Fab Labs): General overview of parametric press-fit kits used to teach kerf, tolerances, and modular design.
https://fabfoundation.org/fab-labs/ - Kerf & Laser Joint Design Guide: Practical explanation of kerf, clearance, and common joint geometries (tabs, slots, finger joints).
https://www.cnccookbook.com/kerf-laser-waterjet-plasma/ - Parametric Design Basics: High-level introduction to parametric design concepts useful for adjustable laser-cut kits.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parametric_design
Safety & Classroom Guidelines
- Laser Cutter Safety Guidelines (MIT Maker-style): Typical university-level safety practices for using laser cutters, including ventilation and supervision.
https://www.northwestern.edu/laser-safety/ - General Workshop Safety for Makers: Checklists and best practices for safe use of cutting equipment in educational makerspaces.
https://makerspace.ieee.org/resources/
