No doubt operating the new laser is going to be a challenging adventure. I’ve been down that road many times before. Tonight I downloaded the machine software (called Lightburn) and noodled around to see what’s up. As expected, there are many new things to explore, new terms to learn and settings to figure out. I’ll tackle this as I do every project - by jumping into the deep end and learning how to swim. I’ve ordered a whole bunch of sample materials and supplies. Many are already on hand. This afternoon, I received word that the machine is due on Friday of this week, so it won’t be long until I’m painting with light. Stay tuned…
Laser samples
I eagerly wait for the new laser engraver to arrive. When I first got the CNC router, I expected to do a lot of things that did not work. I filled the dumpster over the first three months and in the process also learned what does work. I also discovered some cool processes that quickly made us a leader with the machine. I plan to do the same with the laser. I’m watching videos and talking with other laser owners as I seek out ideas and techniques. Each time I learn something, I do some artwork to test my theories. I am also thinking about the kind of artwork I want to create. Ultimately, the market and demand will determine the direction I go, but in the short term, I will be creating a wide variety of pieces as a test. This art will include some sign designs, selected from the thousands of pieces I have designed through the years. This is going to be a wonderful adventure! Stay tuned…
First limited triptych
I’ve been debating with myself which image will be the first I create as a limited edition engraving on the new laser when it arrives in a few days. Last night, it came to me in a flash. The machine is capable of both engraving and cutting the wood I intend to work with. I need to get up to speed on both procedures, so I decided to combine these techniques for the first limited edition run. I drew up the mechanical circus train image a while ago as a triptych (three companion pieces). Last night I decided to create a custom postage stamp border. These will be engraved and cut out on the laser, hand-coloured with pigmented inks and then signed and numbered. Stay tuned to see the result…
