This DIY uses a Speedy 360 laser engraver, but feel free to create this piece using any of the laser machines in the Speedy laser engraver series.
Tip:
If possible, try out a 1.5" lens for this DIY. They're ideal for delicate, detailed cuts.
Step by Step
Trotec laser print settings: LaserPaper
Step 1: Design
Import the provided graphics, but feel free to adapt them as you wish to create your own unique silhouette. Then send the 5 various graphics to your Trotec laser machine with the following settings:
Process mode
Resolution
Cut line
Standard
500dpi
none
Halftone
Others
color
Enhanced geometries, Inner Geometries first
Laser cutting different types and colors of paper
Step 2: Laser Process the Paper
Arrange the colored paper sheets in order according to your design, and place them in your Trotec laser machine. Also, consider masking the rest of the working surface to get a strong vacuum. We recommend the following laser parameters, although they may vary depending on the laser machine you're using and the available laser power.
Laser Parameters: Engraving
Black
Engrave CO2
40
70
500
Color
Process
Power %
Speed %
ppi/Hz
1
ON
0mm
High Quality
Passes
Air Assist
Z-offset
Advanced
Laser Parameters: Cutting
Color
Process
Power %
Speed %
ppi/Hz
Red
Cut CO2
15
1
1,000
Passes
Air Assist
Z-offset
Advanced
1
ON
0mm
-
Stick the different paper layers together to finish your multi-layer silhouette.
Step 3: Assembly
Select a color for your backing plate, layering the colored sheets on top, following the order established in your design. If you've decided to use our design, we recommend the orange rectangle as a backing plate, with the remaining colors layered in the following order:
Slate grey
Blue
Dark blue
Black as finishing
Trotec Materials
Like all of our laserable materials, Trotec LaserPaper has been developed specifically for laser processing. This means you can achieve the highest contrast with the laser machine, while retaining a clean cut mark from laser cutting. Available in a wide variety of eye-catching colors, Trotec LaserPaper is ideal for many applications! Consider trying it for invitations, brochures, business cards, greeting cards and much more. Let your imagination run wild!
Inspiration
Inspiration for a laser cut silhouette
Cut spacers from thin TroLase ADA, and stick them between the individual paper sheets. This adds additional depth and dimension to the final piece.
Replace the orange base plate with white LaserPaper Synthetic, so you can stand the picture in front of a lamp and illuminate it.
Depending on the motif, laser cut silhouettes make a great gift card.
