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[Laser cut and engrave] First Day of School Milestone Keepsake Board — Project made with xTool M1 machine for Back to School.

First Day of School Milestone Keepsake Board

Instruction

SD-260005-SkoolSign_RemovableParts__Laser

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Application scenario

Laser processing

Machine & module

xTool M1

10W

Material used

1/8"(3mm) Basswood Plywood

.47 Magnet

.23 Magnet

Blind Fasteners

164

Information

      Capture every milestone of the school year with this interchangeable First & Last Day of School Photo Sign. Designed for laser cutting from wood, this reusable sign features magnetic, interchangeable name and information plates so it can be customized year after year. Fill in your child's name, grade, age, favorite things, and future dreams to create memorable first-day and last-day photos that become lasting keepsakes.

This beginner-friendly project is quick to cut, easy to assemble, and makes a wonderful gift for parents, grandparents, teachers, or back-to-school craft fairs. Personalize it with paint, stain, acrylic, or engraved details to match your own style.

Features
Reusable interchangeable design
Magnetic name and information plates
Perfect for First Day and Last Day school photos
Easy to personalize with paint, stain, or engraving
Beginner-friendly laser project
Great for gifts, craft shows, and classroom keepsakes
Recommended Materials
3 mm (1/8") Basswood, Birch, or similar laser-safe plywood
Small neodymium magnets
CA glue or wood glue for magnet installation
Paint, stain, or clear finish (optional)
Skill Level

Beginner

Perfect For
Back-to-school photo traditions
Preschool through high school
Personalized family gifts
Teacher classroom props
Craft fairs and online digital file sales

Instruction

Step1

Before You Begin

Cut all parts from your preferred laser-safe material.
Lightly sand away any smoke residue before finishing.
If you plan to paint or stain the project, it's recommended to finish the individual pieces before final assembly for the cleanest results.
Dry-fit all components before gluing to verify placement.

Assembly

1. Prepare the Pieces

Remove all parts from the sheet and clean any tabs or small burrs with fine sandpaper if needed.

2. Install the Information Panel

Attach the main information panel to the backer using the four blind fasteners included in the design. These hold the panel securely while allowing it to stand slightly proud of the backing.

3. Attach the Top Header

Glue the decorative top header permanently in place. Clamp or apply light pressure until the glue has fully cured.

4. Install the Name and Information Plates

You have two assembly options:

Magnetic Version

Install the magnets into the recessed pockets.
Verify the magnet polarity before gluing.
Once installed, the name and information plates can be swapped throughout the school year.

Permanent Version

If you prefer a fixed sign, simply remove the magnet cutouts from the design before cutting.
Glue each plate directly onto the sign in your desired location.

5. Use the Alignment Holes

The small alignment holes are included to help position the information plates during assembly. They can also be used to customize the layout if you'd like to create your own arrangement of the sign.

6. Final Assembly

Once everything is aligned correctly, glue any remaining permanent pieces into place and allow the project to dry completely before use.

Helpful Tips

Paint or stain before final assembly for the cleanest finish.
Test-fit magnets before applying glue and double-check the polarity so interchangeable pieces attract instead of repel.
A small amount of CA glue or wood glue is all that's needed. Excess glue can squeeze out around the parts.
If the plates fit too tightly or too loosely, lightly sand the edges or adjust the slot dimensions to match your machine's kerf.
The interchangeable plates make it easy to reuse the sign for multiple children or from year to year.
Add a clear coat after assembly to help

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