Changes

Vector graphics design is an important part of the design process when it comes to laser cutting. Unlike raster graphics, which are images defined by pixels in a grid, vector graphics are defined by a Cartesian plane connected by lines and curves. This is especially important for the laser cutter, as it will be able to follow the defined line path of the vector images.  

Vector graphics design is an important part of the design process when it comes to laser cutting. Unlike raster graphics, which are images defined by pixels in a grid, vector graphics are defined by a Cartesian plane connected by lines and curves. This is especially important for the laser cutter, as it will be able to follow the defined line path of the vector images.  

There are many vector editing software's available but for the purposes of this article, we will be using Inkscape as it is free to download and open-source.

There are many vector editing software's available but for the purposes of this article, we will be using Inkscape as it is free to download and open-source. The purpose of the article is to cover the basic Inkscape tools necessary for creating a laser cuttable vector design.

[[File:DocumentProperties.png|thumb|Screenshot of the Document Properties menu]]

 

==Setting up the page==

==Setting up the page==

The Document Properties menu can be accessed from the File>Document Properties or the keyboard shortcut Shift+Ctrl+D. From here we can change our page size to either a standard size or a Custom size. Although not necessary, it is recommended that you set your page size to match either the dimensions of your material or the dimensions of the laser cutter so that you have a clearer understanding of your working area.  

The Document Properties menu can be accessed from the File>Document Properties or the keyboard shortcut Shift+Ctrl+D. From here we can change our page size to either a standard size or a Custom size. Although not necessary, it is recommended that you set your page size to match either the dimensions of your material or the dimensions of the laser cutter so that you have a clearer understanding of your working area.  

<br />

<br />

[[File:ShapesToolbar.png|thumb|Screenshot of the Shapes Tools]]

[[File:ShapesToolbar.png|thumb|Screenshot of the Shapes Tools]]