In this course, you will learn how to use free software to make designs that you can cut on any laser cutter with reclaimed materials to make optimised products. We will take things step-by-step.

This course is for adults and teens (aged 14+)

Scope – by the end of the course the participants will be able to:

Confidently design using Inkscape or other apps
Know how to cut 0.1-5mm cardboard, cardstock/paper, fabric, 0.8-5mm wood on a laser cutter
Understand all health and safety around using a laser cutter
Understand what materials can be used and how to upcycle using a laser cutter

Lesson plan

WEEK 1 – Design + getting to know each other

Why did you choose this course? What would you like to achieve?
Overview of drawing tools
Health and safety for using a laser cutter
Materials for our laser cutter - recycled/upcycled
GOAL to be achieved – health and safety for laser cutter use

Homework: plan, draft, create a design for week 2 - cardboard

WEEK 2 – Design a stamp or stencil for cardboard + Discussing cardboard settings

Health and safety for using a laser cutter
Using what you already have (e.g. cardboard, wood, off-cuts, fabric)
Climate and social justice linked to the maker movement
Use Inkscape convert design/image to SVG for a basic cardboard cut out
GOAL to be achieved – cutting designs - stamp or stencil (or both)

Homework: plan, draft, create design for week 3 - wood
Recommend: small items like jewellery, tokens/coins, game pieces etc

WEEK 3 – Wood Cutting and engraving/etching vs marking

Health and safety for using a laser cutter with wood
Types of wood and cutting variances - ply vs mdf etc.
GOAL to be achieved – understanding different wooden settings + marking/etching

Homework: plan, draft, create design for week 4 - fabric/textiles

WEEK 4 – Textiles and design + what is in materials and how to test natural/synthetic fibres

Health and safety when using a laser cutter
Taking care of our machine – cleaning and checking
Understanding textile composition - natural vs synthetic, woven vs knit, other materials ie felt, leather etc.
Designing for applique
GOAL to be achieved – textile design and cutting

For those who really get into the design side

Free Design + setting up the laser cutter for custom work

· Using skills learned to plan, design and create a fully custom piece.

Possibilities include combining materials to make a complete assembly ie:

a prop dagger made from wood, with custom marking/etching, and a fabric/leather sheath to put on a belt (great for the cosplay/larp inclined
Wooden or cardboard “coins” and a drawstring pouch to store them (also great for the cosplay/larp inclined
Etched wooden game board and pieces with fabric bag for storing
Wood or leather/fabric earrings/pendant and fabric jewellery bag
Other options, the only limits are dimensions of laser, available materials and imagination

When: Every Sunday from 27 August to 17 Sep, 12 pm - 2 pm

Where: West Auckland's RE: MAKER SPACE, 6 Westgate Drive, Massey, Auckland 0614.

Fees: $180 for course

The ReCreators are on a mission to show the world how to reduce and reuse our natural resources. It’s easy, fun, creative, and sustainable. Join us on our journey.

Places are limited so book your place NOW. Don't miss out!