I wanted to create something for my grandsons homework desk that would keep him organized and be personized. I then decided that I needed one for my desk at work :-)
I've made 2 files in case you want to cut from 12" x 12" pieces. I chose acrylic because I'm currently obsessed but wood is also a good choice, as long as it's 3mm.
Import file 1 and delete the name on the name plate. Insert your own text. Set the name (text portion) on it's own layer to “engrave”. Everything else will be set to “cut”. I would also group everything after this step to avoid moving an element away from where it belongs by accident.
Next you'll want to set your parameters. I've listed mine as a reference only and is specific to my machine and material choice.
Remember to set your material thickness.
Hit process and check your preview to be sure that everything looks as it should and then begin your cut/engrave process.
This layer is all going to be set to “cut”. Once again, I highly recommend that you group everything immediately upon import. The flexible hinge has a lot of lines that can be easily moved and would result in a non-functional piece.
Once you have your parameters set, hit process and check your preview. Proceed when satisfied that you've set all parameters correctly and the preview looks good.
The assembly is very straight forward. FYI, I always do a dry fit before doing any gluing just to be sure that everything cut correctly. For the base, place the base, all sides and the center piece together to be sure they all fall into place.
Begin with the base and the center divider piece. Place and glue the center piece and then attach the two long sides. The flat surface of these sides should be at the front of the base as shown in the photos. Next place the rear plate and the front (with name) plate and glue.
Once you have done this, you're going to add the square plate with the circle of holes. You'll want to be sure that the edge with the two tiny notches in the corners is facing you and adjoined to the center divider piece (see photo). Glue into place.
Next comes installing the flexible hinge. Note that acrylic can be brittle so you'll want to handle with care during assembly. The two ends of the hinge have connection tabs that are 50% the size of the other tabs as they will share the same hole. Do your dry fit and then glue into place.
Last, you'll install the top ring (circle with holes). This will be the same as installing the hinge. The two end pieces share the same hole.
It's that simple! Now your Homework Helper is complete!
Now it's time to fill it up with goodies!