Laser Wolf
Report

Jig for 3.4" x 2.13" Aluminum Cards

Instruction
3.4x2.13 Card Jig.xcs
3
.4x2
Application scenario
Laser (30min)
Machine & module
xTool S1
40W
Compatibles · 9
Material used
3mm Basswood Plywood
764
3786
Information
      Here's the file for a useful and easy-to-make jig for engraving 3.4" x 2.13" (86.36mm x 51.1mm) aluminum business cards.

All work was done in XCS, and on an S1 40W. I've included my settings, but yours may vary.
    
Instruction
1
Step1: Aligning the Materials
Preview

Stack and align two 3mm basswood boards on top of each other. You can secure them, to be sure all the edges match, but that is not necessary, as long as your cuts are inside the edges of the material. (pic. A)

2
Step2: Cut the Two Boards to Size

Set every layer in the file to "ignore", except the Outer Cut layer (100/13), and send it to the laser.

3
Step3: Remove Cutoff and Prepare to Cut Out the Jig

After the cuts are complete, remove the cutoff, and one of the cut pieces from the machine. Make sure the remaining piece is properly aligned, and reset the distance and perimeter markings.

4
Step4: Make the Interior Cuts and Score the Alignment Guides
Preview

Set the Outer Cut line to "ignore" and everything else to "output." Make sure the Alignment Marks layer is set to Score (50/150), and the Interior Cut layer to Cut (95/14). Send it to the laser.

5
Step5: Align and Secure the Pieces for Glue Up
Preview

Place tape on the backside of the bottom piece, carefully align the two pieces of the jig and fold the tape over the edges, onto the top piece to ensure they stay aligned. Press the tape on firmly. (pic B.) This is important, to ensure that when you use the jig, you can properly square it in your machine.

6
Step6: Glue the Pieces Together
Preview

Unfold the pieces along the taped edge. Apply glue to the back of the piece with the interior cuts. (Wood glue is recommended. I did not have any on hand, so I laid down a bead of CA glue). (pic C.)

7
Step7: Allow the Pieces to Dry, and You've Got a Jig!

Fold the pieces back together, making sure all edges are properly aligned. Place some weight on the pieces, and wait for the glue to dry.

Align the jig in your machine, load the card blanks, and engrave your prefered design!
 

Comments
Remixes
xTool Supplies Used in This Template
xTool S1
xTool S1
3mm Basswood Plywood
3mm Basswood Plywood