Create Decorative clips for your Easter Basket

In this step we need to first bring in the image and text we want on the basket decoration.  In this example I'm creating a decoration that simply says “happy Easter” and a image of an Easter bunny.  I resized the image  and curved the text to match the bottom of the image shape.  Before adjusting the contrast of the image, I also removed the outermost outline.  I thought it looked better without that layer.

https://youtu.be/hxItBsOlxzY?si=_t1S3vdTIlDcpnwh&t=8

Next, we need to add an outline around the text and image to give our decoration a unique profile.  We could use a simple shape like a square or and oval, but, an outline adds a lot of interest to the design.  Xtool Creative Space has an easy-to-use tool that makes this task a breeze.  Simply select both he image and the text and then click the outline tool from the tool bar.  A drop down will appear and you have the option to adjust the padding between the outline and the image/text.  This usually needs a little adjustment to get the desired look.

https://youtu.be/hxItBsOlxzY?si=NRA-fT7QP-llUCH4&t=123

Next, we need to add a rectangle shape.  This will be used to create a slot in the base we created in the previous step. As you can see in the video, I added the rectangle and then sized it to create slot the thickness of the rim of my basket (0.25 inches).  When I resized the rectangle I realized the overall design was too large, and I decided to resize it to be more proportional.  

I have found it is best to select all items and then resize together to save all the alignment w have done so far.  Once the design is resized, now add back in the rectangle.  Place it at the base of the design and use the “combine” tool to “subtract” the rectangle from the base of the design.

https://youtu.be/hxItBsOlxzY?si=BA0Z2e5zRHE9Myfe&t=167

In this step, we need to set up the machine to engrave and cut.  Depending upon the machine and the strength of the laser, your settings may vary.  I have a D1 with a 5W laser.  I've added all these settings in if you have that exact setup.  Otherwise, you have these three main operations.

1. Engrave the bitmap - I like using the Jarvis pattern.  This uses dots rather than varying intensity like grayscale
2. Engrave the text - this one is simpler since it is a vector, but make sure you have the settings appropriate for your machine
3. Cut  the outline - We need the outline set up to cut.  With 3mm basswood on my machine, I have found  5 passes helps to ensure there is a clean cut.

Again, if you are using the same machine, I am confident the settings above will give you a good result with 3mm basswood, but if you have a different machine, you will need to first do some tests to get the right settings.

https://youtu.be/hxItBsOlxzY?si=nVmVH59kTglCn2fA&t=411

Lastly, load up your machine and enjoy watching your laser work!  

Remember to wear all personal protective equipment when running your laser and follow all safety rules.

I hope this guide was helpful and that you have learned from the techniques used.

https://youtu.be/hxItBsOlxzY?si=46vqopFZZ6Qb2lZa&t=492