Laser Engraver & Cutter

Epilog Helix Mini 24

This machine can engrave on and cut approved materials. The bed of the machine fits materials 12×24. The laser can cut wood/acrylic up to ¼ inch (6mm) deep. Check approved materials page for a list of laserable materials. You will be asked to provide a receipt that lists the type of material. The laser engraver can be utilized to make many decorative and practical items from stylized maps and portraits to wooden signs and custom puzzles.

What is Laser Engraving & Cutting?

Laser engraving and cutting allows users to engrave wood, glass, and acrylic and/or cut through thinner sheets of wood or acrylic. Using the rotary tool, you can also engrave on certain cylindrical items like anodized or powder-coated travel mugs. The laser cannot engrave on metal.

Explore

Baby Blocks
Treasure Chest Piggy Bank
Laser Cut Earrings
Stemless Wine Glasses
Fruit Bowl

*Samples outside of this list may not reflect the capabilities of the machine, design files needed, or materials approved for use in our space. 

Machine use is free and time limited. Some materials available for purchase. If you are bringing your own materials, they must be compatible with the machine—see Approved Materials List.

Project Planning

Terms to Know

Rastering – a process synonymous with engraving (grayscale or black and white image).
Vector – a process synonymous with cutting (done along defined edges).
Rotary – a tool for engraving cylindrical items.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost?
There is no cost to use the machine. Innovation Pointe will have materials available for purchase.  

Does this machine require training?  
Before you can use this machine, you must: 
1. Have a MidPointe Library card.
2. Have completed and submitted an Innovation Pointe waiver. Waivers can be completed in the space during normal hours. Minors MUST have a parent or guardian sign in-person.  
3. Must be 10 years or older.

How do I plan a successful project?
Begin with your end object in mind. If you are engraving, you want your design to have high contrast between light and dark areas. For example, black areas will be fully engraved and white areas will not be engraved at all. If you are cutting, then you need a file with a defined edge (.svg files have these built in) with a line of .001pt thickness. Note that the engraving process engraves all non-white areas and cuts any line with a .001pt thickness.Make sure that your material is on the Approved Materials List and will fit and work in the machine (See Below). 

What materials can I use in the machine?
This machine has a 12×24” bed size, so your material must be 12×24” or smaller dimensions to fit.  
Only certain materials can be lasered. Please see our Approved Materials List. Material approval is at Innovation Pointe staff discretion. 
The laser will cut through a maximum of 1/4″ wood and 1/8” acrylic. 
If you intend to engrave using the rotary tool (for something cylindrical), it should NOT have a handle. Items that are tapered or have large curved sides or stems may not work. 

What should I bring?
Design: You will need a design saved in .PDF or .SVG, accessible via your email or on a USB Drive. You may also use a computer in Innovation Pointe to create your design. 
Materials: You may bring materials that are on the Approved Materials List and fit in the machine (see machine specifications below). Clear acrylic, black acrylic and thin wood materials will be available in the space for purchase.

What are the specifications of the machine?
Bed size: 12″x24” 
Wattage: 40 

Resources

https://thenounproject.com/- free (with an account) .svg  files that are easily engravable and cuttable. 
https://inkscape.org/is a free .svg editing and graphic software.

Available Equipment (Click for More Information):