👨‍👧 “Best Dad Ever” – Layered Father’s Day Tribute

Before you begin crafting your “Best Dad Ever” artwork, make sure you’re fully prepared with the following steps:

Gather Your Materials:

• 3mm black and white acrylic (for the silhouettes and the words)
• 3mm basswood plywood (for the background panel and stand)
• 3mm Okoume plywood (for the outer frame)

Load the Design File:

• Open the xTool Creative Space software.
• Import the “Best Dad Ever” design file into your project workspace.

Check Your Laser Settings:

• Focus: Ensure your laser module is properly focused on the material surface for clean and accurate cuts.
• Power & Speed: Double-check the recommended settings for each material type:
• Black acrylic – typically requires slower speed and higher power.
• Basswood/okoume plywood – medium power and speed often work best.
• Adjust as needed based on your specific machine and material batch.

Safety First:

• Never leave your laser unattended while it’s operating.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and always monitor your workspace while cutting or engraving.

Now that your file is loaded and your laser is prepared, it’s time to begin the cutting process.

Verify or Adjust Settings:

• If you’re using an xTool P2, the recommended settings are already included in the project file—just follow those for optimal results.
• If you’re using a different xTool machine:
  • Refer to the xTool materials database for tested power and speed settings.
  • Adjust as needed for material thickness, machine wattage, and laser type.

Material-by-Material Cutting Guide:

• Okoume Plywood (3mm) – Cut the outer frame pieces.
• Basswood Plywood (3mm) – Score the background panel and cut the stand piece.
• Black and White Acrylic (3mm) – Cut the layered silhouettes and words.

Handle with Caution:

• As each set of pieces finishes cutting, gently remove them from your laser bed and set them aside in a safe space.
• Special note: The black acrylic silhouette layer is very delicate—handle it with care to avoid snapping or cracking fine lines or narrow joints.

With all your components cut and prepped, it’s time to bring “Mountain March” to life through careful assembly and finishing.

🪵 1. Frame Assembly

• Lay the basswood back panel flat on your workspace.
• Apply wood glue along the edges of the back panel, then place the Okoume frame pieces around it to form a border.
• Use clamps to hold the frame tightly in place. Allow to dry completely before moving on.

🪛 2. Stand Assembly

Refer to the stand pieces (shown above) which include:

• One tall vertical support
• One horizontal brace with two square slots
• Two pin-style locking tabs
• Apply glue to one side of the brace, then insert and attach the first locking tab.
• Slide the brace onto the main vertical stand piece, aligning the tabs with the notches.
• Insert the second locking tab and glue it into place.
• Allow the stand to dry fully before attaching it to the back of the frame if you choose to use the freestanding option.

🎨 3. Apply Protective Finish

Before attaching the acrylic layer, apply a coat of polyurethane to:

• The Okoume frame
• The basswood back panel
• Let the finish dry according to the product instructions.

🖼️ 4. Attach the Acrylic Scene

• Once the finish is dry, apply a thin, even layer of adhesive to the back of the black and white acrylic pieces.
• Carefully align and place it onto the front of the finished back panel.

To protect the delicate acrylic while clamping:

• Lay a flat scrap piece of wood over the silhouette layer.
• Clamp gently but firmly, and allow time for the adhesive to cure fully.