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[Laser cut and engrave] 🏈 Cardboard Core Series – Engraved Football Mini — Project made with M1 Ultra machine for Party.

🏈 Cardboard Core Series – Engraved Football Mini

Atomm Exclusive

Instruction

Football

.xcs

Application scenario

Laser processing (20min)

Machine & module

xTool M1 Ultra

20W

Compatible xTool Machine

F2 Ultra UV

F2 Ultra（Single）

F2 Ultra

F1 Ultra

F1 Lite

P2S

D1 Pro 2.0

D1 Pro

Laserbox

Accessories

xTool M1 Air Assist Set

xTool M1 Riser Base with Honeycomb Panel

Material used

Corrugated Cardboard

897

Information

      This handcrafted football mini is created using laser engraving on upcycled packaging cardboard, intentionally burning away the top layer to reveal the slanted corrugated core beneath. The exposed ridged texture becomes the centerpiece of the design, naturally mimicking the grip and grain of a real football surface.

Rather than hiding the material, this piece celebrates it. The engraved first layer removes the smooth outer skin, revealing the structural beauty inside the cardboard. The raised lace detail and clean outer panels create contrast against the diagonally patterned core, adding depth without additional materials.

Lightweight, affordable, and sustainable, this mini football is perfect for kids’ game-day celebrations, classroom events, party favors, or budget-friendly décor. It proves that thoughtful design can transform everyday packaging into something meaningful and fun.

This project is about accessibility — bringing game-day joy to families without high costs — while showing how creative engraving techniques can elevate even the simplest materials.

Instruction

Step1

🔧 Instructions — Cardboard Core Series (Engraved Football Mini)

Prepare Your Material
Select a piece of clean corrugated cardboard. Make sure it has no tape, stickers, or plastic coatings on the surface you plan to engrave.

Set Up the Laser
Place the cardboard flat in the laser bed. Align it carefully so the artwork is centered before starting.

Engraving Only — No Cutting
Load your design file and set the laser to engrave only. This project does not require cutting or assembly — just engraving to remove the top surface and reveal the corrugated texture beneath.

Run a Short Test
Before engraving your final piece, run a small test on scrap cardboard to dial in power/speed settings that remove only the top layer without burning too deeply.

Monitor Closely
Never leave the laser unattended while it’s running. Laser engraving on cardboard can easily reach combustion temperatures, and constant supervision helps you stop the machine immediately if anything ignites.

Finish and Inspect
Once engraving is complete, allow the piece to cool before touching it, and inspect for any unintended char or weak spots.

⚠️ Safety Notes
• Fire Hazard Awareness: Cardboard is highly flammable. Because laser engraving uses focused heat, there is real risk of ignition. Keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby whenever working with cardboard.
• Ventilation: Laser engraving produces smoke and particulates. Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated or use proper exhaust systems.
• Supervision Required: Do not leave the laser running unattended. Even a perfect job can ignite if something shifts or settings are slightly off.
• Clean Workspace: Keep the area free of loose cardboard pieces, dust, or other flammables near the machine.
• Machine Safety: Always follow your laser tool manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.