Glowforge Tips & Tricks: How To Create Layers

Thanks for stopping by! Today, I wanted to show you how to layer a design for your laser cutter (in my case, a Glowforge Pro). I created a pub sign that has three layers and it's not as difficult as some would think!
I HIGHLY recommend using 3M 467 adhesive tape to glue the layers together. It saves a HUGE amount of time and it's a lot less messy.

[@dannycarlson3243]

Great video! Just got my GF and my first project came out like a jigsaw puzzle because I didn't know about welding. That last minute or two of content was worth a dozen likes. Thanks, man!

[@SteelForge1]

That's fantastic news! So happy you got it figured out. It gets WAY easier the more you do it, like anything really.

[@jarrettolson8390]

Thanks Scott! I just purchased the Pro tonight and used your link. I can't wait to get started!!

[@SteelForge1]

That's awesome! Thanks for your support and have fun! You're going to create some amazing things.

[@mitchfishman5014]

Nice video and good explanations. Something that works for me when gluing a cut out element on to a lower layer is to score an outline of the element on the lower layer where the image will be placed. It helps me to get it in the correct spot.

[@SteelForge1]

Yeah great idea! Gives you a much easier reference to align with. Thanks for sharing!

[@whatwevefound7769]

Thanks for the video Scotty, I've been looking for a video explaining how multiple layer signage is done. Thanks to your video, Now I know. Happy days.

[@SteelForge1]

Glad it helped! Been meaning to get more tutorial vids up. Thanks for watching!

[@lubblyjubblyfurniture]

wow that looks amazing, so interesting. Great details and description video.

[@SteelForge1]

Thanks so much!

[@l.r.designstudioslauriesul8993]

Thank you :) I enjoyed listening to you - you explain things well :)

[@SteelForge1]

Thanks for watching!

[@rockstar120410]

Thanks for the video and my son is Scott Steele 😄 How cool!

[@SteelForge1]

That's very cool! Thanks for watching!

[@aaronhouston3238]

I don't need a donut, what am I doing??>>>> Subscribe>>>>> haha that was funny. Great video Scott! Thanks for the info.

[@SteelForge1]

🤣 Cheers! Thanks for watching!

[@curtisoneill9929]

Got a sub from me. Cool work bro.

[@SteelForge1]

Cheers! Thanks for the support!

[@justcurious8865]

Thanks Scott Great video will be interested when you start selling the files. Was wondering what size you used 1/4 or 1/8 inch ply? Thanks!

[@SteelForge1]

Thank you so much! I used 1/4" ply for the pub sign. I actually use 1/4" ply for every project I do because I like the rigidity of it versus 1/8". Feels more substantial.

[@btechstuff]

Hey Scott. Thanks for the video.. I picked up some of those boards. What are you using for cutting, engraving settings?

[@SteelForge1]

Hi Bryan! Thanks for watching! It really depends on the materials you're engraving but I find 725 speed and 60-70 power gets the job done nicely. Think of it as Speed = Darkness and Power = Depth.

[@btechstuff]

@@SteelForge1 That is a good explanation, thanks

[@brianpeters512]

Great video….but a question, what’s the need for the backer layer when your not cutting thru the middle layer?

[@SteelForge1]

Fantastic question Brian and thanks for watching! I usually add a backing layer for thickness and stability of the piece, even if I'm not cutting through the middle layer. It's a small cost to me business-wise and adds more substance to the project which gives customers more confidence in their decision to buy from me because the product just 'feels' better quality, if that makes sense?

[@brianpeters512]

@@SteelForge1 makes total sense....and thats what i thought but figured I'd ask. Also if you do come up with a Reason or a particular design where you want to pop thru to increase the "layer count" for whatever reason your all set to go. Good video....nice design!

[@jordannorth546]

So is there a reason behind using 3 layers vs. just the 2 layers? Is it just the rigidity of the finished product? Also, do you have any suggestions on engraving/cut settings for this type of wood or a place you got it from?

[@SteelForge1]

Hi Jordan! The three layers are for rigidity as you mentioned and also to make the piece feel more substantial to the customer. The cost for the additional layer is negligible for me but adds a lot more psychological value when held. I usually use a range of 725-775 speed and 60-65 power for my engraving.

[@SteelForge1]

Oh, and I get the Columbia Forest Products plywood from Home Depot online.

[@brownsense1]

Coreldraw is NOT a terrible program... I like that design though.

[@SteelForge1]

I actually love it but sometimes I hate it 🤣🤘 Thanks for watching!

[@wmwilds]

Can I ask what the font is you use for Che and Julie's names?

[@SteelForge1]

I believe it's called Cinzel Decorative

[@wmwilds]

@@SteelForge1 Thank you very much. Great work!!

[@mtz3843]

wish could afford a glowforge

[@SteelForge1]

One day! Think on it constantly and you'll find you manifest it

[@carllupica2052]

Scott are you selling these yet? Would love to buy one.

[@SteelForge1]

I used to but they took so long to make, I couldn't charge enough to make money on them. They take about 2 hours to fully design and then another 3 hours to make them.

[@carllupica2052]

Are you selling the file then by chance?

[@lacrimosavienna7713]

hey is it possible to maybe get the file? :)

[@SteelForge1]

Hi Bruno! Sorry that one isn't for sale I'm afraid. :) It might be in the future though...

[@beansdicecarlos7890]

Is it for sale yet?... Asking from the future.