It is challenging and a whole lot of fun to figure out both drawing techniques and the complexities of a new robotic machine at the same time. There are, of course, lots of failures, some near misses and the occasional preliminary success. I am trying various woods, substrates, and finishes combined with different drawing styles and file resolutions. As with our other robotic machines in years past, we will fill a dumpster with what doesn’t work while discovering the magic bullets. As I expressed a little frustration with one of many failed samples today, Peter laughingly reminded me that it's only day three and we have much to discover. While not yet near the quality I desire, the closest we have to a finished sample is this little tractor. As always, it is back to the drawing board to work up some new art to test drive in the coming days. Stay tuned…
First cuts!
The new laser is now up and running flawlessly. As expected, the new software is a bit daunting, and my operation of it is clumsy and slow because it is all so new to me. Thankfully, I can count on the help of my good friend Chris when I get stuck. The results we have achieved so far are better than I expected. The quality as a reproduction of what I drew as a line drawing is great. Dot gain is manageable - even without the fine lens. The finish quality is better than I hoped, considering the substrate is still inexpensive test material - Baltic spruce, which is pretty coarse. My order of different substrates is still in transit, and I look forward to darker line work, which is my ultimate goal. Stay tuned for the magic that is coming soon…
Celebrate!
Today I celebrate another in a very long series of birthdays. Turning another year older is not a big deal but I was pleased to receive a bunch of emails, texts and phone calls from those I love. I was also delighted to get a call from the freight company to take delivery of the shiny new Aeon Laser this morning. We wasted no time in disassembling the giant crate and gently moving the four hundred pound beast of a machine into the ‘laser room’ for setup. Although I knew the measurements beforehand, it seems huge. Over the next while we’ll do the necessary hookups, get up to speed on the operation and begin having some fun that I’ve been dreaming of for a very long time. Stay tuned…
