I have an Ortur Laser Master 3 (goofy name, sounds like a character from an '80s cartoon) with a 10w diode laser – very similar design to the xTool you’re considering. In fact, here’s a comparison between these very machines, in which the xTool comes out well ahead.
I’m sure you’ve done the research and already know this, but I highly recommend the Lightburn software. Free for a month, then you’ll need a license ($60 for up to three computers, totally worth the cost).
One issue I’ve run into: There doesn’t seem to be any way to adjust paths for tapered objects when using the rotary chuck. (This limitation may apply to other laser cutting software, not just Lightburn.) It’s a bit hard to explain… You can put a tapered object like a pint glass on the rotary chuck, and adjust the axis angle so the laser maintains constant distance from the object surface as it rotates. But, because the circumference of the object is different at different points along the X axis, you get distortion as degrees of Y rotation results in different lengths depending on where you are. There is probably a way in Illustrator to “pre-warp” your art so that it looks right when engraved. It’s not a huge deal, but is noticeable.
Be prepared to burn through lots of material while you learn the machine – but, seeing the stuff you’ve posted here, you should have no problem picking up the skills.
It was really just an experiment, one I’d consider a failure. I just spray painted the plexiglass, let it dry, and etched away. On closer inspection, the laser didn’t even take off any acrylic – only the paint. Higher power resulted in damage to the plastic.
Almost done with the Yeti for tomorrow’s holiday parade. Not the prettiest fiberglass job but I think the scouts had a lot of fun helping build it and it should be sturdy enough to reuse for 4th of July parade if we repaint him to be a Sasquatch.
Maybe I should open a side business in old-timey roadside attractions.
@MrShiv in this case. ( it’s the red and black avatar thing. there’s one other of us as well – @Mercenary_Garage – with the same coloring, and even i get confused who i am… )
attention Happy Mutants!
i have just released a new set of letterpress printed post cards that are going fast (my editions are short-run, usually 20 - 50 at a go).
there is absolutely no cost to you, only your trust and a snail-mail address you feel ok in sharing. my mailing list is small, very private, not stored digitally anywhere and never for sale!
if you have room in you post box for entertaining handmade post card art “junk mail”, please DM me where to send.
internationals welcome!
