Mother's Day Celtic Box

For this project, you'll need:

• 3mm basswood plywood for the box
• 3mm walnut for the Celtic ornament

A single sheet of 12” x 20” basswood plywood will provide enough material for the entire box. Additionally, you'll need a small 4” x 4” piece of walnut for the ornament.

1. Launch xTool's Creative Space software.
2. Open the "Celtic Box" file.
3. Within the software, you'll find various images showcasing your finished box from different angles.
4. The Celtic ornament designed for the top of the box is included, but feel free to customize with your own graphic or lettering if desired.
5. Identify the layers within the file:
   • The RED layer images represent the pieces to cut for the box.
   • The BLACK layer image depicts the Celtic ornament to cut for the top of the box.
   • The GREEN layer contains an image scored on the top piece to assist with accurate placement of the ornament.

Set Up Your Laser:

• Place your basswood plywood in the laser machine.
• Ensure the wood is securely positioned and flat against the laser bed.

Adjust Laser Settings:

• Set the laser focus to ensure optimal cutting depth.
• Define cutting boundaries within the software based on the dimensions of your wood and the design file.

Align Red Layered Pieces:

• Align the pieces designated in the RED layer of the design file for cutting.
• Double-check alignment to ensure precise cutting accuracy.

Measure Wood Thickness:

• Before cutting, measure the thickness of your basswood plywood to confirm it meets the 3mm specifications of the file.
• Consider creating a test object with finger joints to gauge the fit. Aim for a fit that is neither too loose nor too tight.

Perform Test Cuts (Optional):

• If necessary, conduct test cuts on scrap material to fine-tune settings and ensure optimal results.

Remove Pieces from the Laser:

• Carefully remove the basswood plywood pieces from the laser machine.

Line Up Pieces:

• Place the cut pieces on a flat surface.
• Inspect each piece to ensure accurate cutting and alignment, paying particular attention to the finger joints.

Visualize Assembly:

• Lay out the pieces as shown in the provided photo to visualize how they will fit together and understand the assembly process.

Clean Residue:

• Take this opportunity to clean any residue or debris from the laser cuts using a soft cloth or brush.

Bring Pieces Together:

• Gather the basswood plywood pieces for assembly.
• Ensure all pieces are within reach and ready to be glued.

Use Painter's Tape:

• Apply painter's tape to hold the pieces together temporarily while gluing.
• This helps maintain alignment and prevents pieces from shifting during the gluing process.

Select Glue and Accelerator:

• Choose a CA glue (cyanoacrylate adhesive) for bonding the pieces together.
• Utilize an accelerator spray to expedite the gluing process.

Apply Glue and Accelerator:

• Once everything is aligned correctly and securely held in place with painter's tape, apply a small amount of CA glue along the joints.
• Immediately follow with a light spray of accelerator to speed up the drying process.
• Exercise caution as the accelerator creates a permanent connection, making adjustments difficult after application.

Ensure Proper Alignment:

• Double-check that all pieces are aligned correctly before applying the accelerator.

Prepare the Laser:

• Set up the laser machine for cutting the 3mm walnut material.
• Ensure the material is securely positioned and flat against the laser bed.

Adjust Laser Settings:

• Set the laser focus and define cutting boundaries within the software, similar to the process for the basswood plywood cuts.

Align Design and Material:

• Align the Celtic ornament design in the BLACK layer of the design file with the walnut material.

Perform Cutting Process:

• Initiate the cutting process according to the designated settings for walnut material.
• Monitor the cutting progress to ensure precise results.

Inspect Cuts:

• Once cutting is complete, carefully remove the Celtic ornament pieces from the laser machine.
• Inspect the cuts to ensure accuracy and quality.

Clean Residue:

• Clean any residue or debris from the laser cuts using a soft cloth or brush.

Position the Ornament:

• Place the cut Celtic ornament on the top piece of the box.
• Align it with the scored image on the top piece, which serves as a guide for accurate placement.

Apply Glue:

• Apply a small amount of CA glue to the back of the Celtic ornament.

Secure in Place:

• Carefully position the ornament on the top piece of the box, aligning it with the scored image.
• Press down gently to ensure proper adhesion.

Allow Glue to Set:

• Let the glue dry and set completely before handling the box further.

Sand the Box:

• Using 320 grit sandpaper, gently sand the entire surface of the box.
• This helps to remove any scuffs and prepare the surface for the finish.

Apply Finish:

• Choose a water-based clear matte polyurethane finish for this project.
• Apply two light coats of finish to the sanded surface, allowing sufficient drying time between coats.

Let Dry:

• Allow the project to dry completely according to the instructions on the finish product.

Enjoy Your Creation:

• Once the finish is dry, your Celtic box is ready to be enjoyed!
• Admire your craftsmanship and the beauty of the finished piece.