Wood Coaster

Laser Engraving – Hexagon Wood Coaster

Equipment: xTool (e.g., M1 / M1 Ultra)
Material: Hexagon wood coaster (birch / bamboo / similar)
Process Type: Laser Engraving (not cutting)

1. Purpose

To define the standardized process for safely and consistently laser engraving hexagon wood coasters using an xTool laser machine.

2. Scope

This instruction applies to all operators performing laser engraving on wooden hexagon coasters using xTool equipment.

3. Responsibilities

Operator: Follow this work instruction, verify settings, and perform engraving safely.

Supervisor / Owner: Ensure machine maintenance, material approval, and training.

4. Safety Precautions

Always wear appropriate eye protection when the lid is open.

Ensure the machine lid is fully closed before starting engraving.

Do not leave the laser unattended while operating.

Ensure adequate ventilation or fume extraction is active.

Never engrave unknown or coated materials.

Keep a fire extinguisher nearby.

5. Tools & Materials Required

xTool laser machine (M1 / M1 Ultra)

xTool Creative Space (XCS) software

Hexagon wood coaster (clean, dry, flat)

Honeycomb or metal base (recommended)

Masking tape (optional, to reduce burn marks)

Lint-free cloth

6. Material Preparation

Inspect the wood coaster for cracks, warping, or surface defects.

Clean the surface with a dry lint-free cloth.

(Optional) Apply masking tape evenly on the engraving surface to minimize scorch marks.

Ensure the coaster is completely flat.

7. Machine Setup

Power on the xTool machine.

Connect the machine to the computer via USB or Wi-Fi.

Open xTool Creative Space (XCS).

Select the correct device model.

Place the honeycomb or metal base inside the machine.

Place the hexagon coaster centered on the base.

8. File Setup in XCS

Import the engraving design file (SVG, PNG, JPG).

Resize the design to fit within the hexagon coaster.

Use Frame to confirm correct positioning.

Set process type to Engrave.

Recommended Starting Settings (Test First)

(Settings may vary depending on wood type)

Power: 45

Speed: 100 mm/s

Passes: 1

Line Interval: 0.1–0.12 mm

Air Assist: ON (if available)

⚠️ Always perform a small test engrave on scrap material before production.

9. Focus & Calibration

Use auto-focus or manual focus according to machine model.

Verify focus height is correct for the coaster thickness.

Confirm preview framing aligns correctly with the coaster.

10. Engraving Process

Close the machine lid completely.

Start the engraving job from XCS.

Monitor the engraving for flame, excessive smoke, or movement.

Allow the machine to complete the cycle fully.

11. Post-Processing

Wait for smoke to clear before opening the lid.

Remove the coaster carefully.

Peel off masking tape (if used).

Clean residue with a soft cloth or light sanding if required.

Inspect engraving quality:

Consistent depth

No excessive burn marks

Design centered and aligned

12. Quality Acceptance Criteria

Engraving is legible and evenly burned.

No charring beyond design boundaries.

Coaster surface remains flat and undamaged.

Design matches approved artwork.

13. Common Issues & Troubleshooting