Create a Laser Cutting Design File

Step 1: Install and Set Up Inkscape

1. Download and install Inkscape: Inkscape Download Page.
2. Open Inkscape and set the document size to match your laser cutter’s work area:
   • Go to File > Document Properties.
   • Set the width and height under “Custom Size” to match the laser cutting bed dimensions (e.g., 300×200 mm).
   • Choose millimeters or inches as the unit, depending on your preference.

---

Step 2: Create the Panel Outline

1. Use the Rectangle Tool (R) from the toolbar.
2. Draw a rectangle to represent your panel.
3. Set the exact dimensions:
   • Select the rectangle, then adjust the width and height in the top toolbar.
   • Ensure the panel fits within the laser cutting bed dimensions.

---

Step 3: Add Cutouts or Openings

1. Use the Rectangle Tool, Circle Tool (E), or Polygon Tool to create cutouts:
   • Hold Ctrl while drawing to maintain perfect squares, circles, or polygons.
2. Place the shapes where you want the cutouts to appear.

---

Step 4: Adjust Object Alignment

1. To ensure proper alignment, select multiple objects.
2. Open the Align and Distribute menu:
   • Go to Object > Align and Distribute.
   • Use alignment options like “Center” or “Distribute Equidistantly.”

---

Step 5: Set Stroke and Fill for Laser Cutting

1. Select all objects in your design.
2. Open the Fill and Stroke menu:
   • Go to Object > Fill and Stroke.
3. For cutting lines:
   • Set the Fill to “No Paint” (X symbol).
   • Set the Stroke Paint to a color (commonly red for cutting).
   • Adjust Stroke Style to a thin line (e.g., 0.01 mm or similar thickness).
4. For engraving lines:
   • Set the Fill to the desired color (commonly black).
   • Leave the stroke optional, depending on the engraving details.

---

Step 6: Add Text or Decorations (Optional)

1. Use the Text Tool (T) to add labels or decorations.
2. Convert text to paths for laser compatibility:
   • Select the text, then go to Path > Object to Path.

---

Step 7: Combine or Subtract Shapes

1. Use Boolean operations for custom shapes:
   • Select two or more shapes, then go to Path > Union to combine.
   • Use Path > Difference to subtract one shape from another (e.g., cutouts).

---

Step 8: Save the File for Laser Cutting

1. Go to File > Save As.
2. Select SVG format (Scalable Vector Graphics) for easy compatibility.
3. Alternatively, export to PDF if required by the laser cutting machine.
4. Ensure the design is within the laser cutting bed dimensions and that the colors and line weights are appropriately set for cutting and engraving.

---

Step 9: Final Check

1. Review your design:
   • Make sure all cut lines are set to stroke only.
   • Ensure engraving areas have the correct fill.
2. Check the scale and alignment by comparing dimensions with the intended material.

---

Step 10: Send to Laser Cutting Service

1. Share the final SVG or PDF file with your laser cutting service.
2. Include any special instructions (e.g., material type, thickness, or engraving details).