Coasters and Holder, 4 and 6ea

Instruction

CoastersandHolder

.xcs

Application scenario

Laser processing

Machine & module

xTool S1

20W

Compatibles · 11

Material used

1/8"(3mm) Basswood Plywood

Information

      This template is for making large (120mm) coasters with backing (100mm) that includes xTool AI graphics and other components provided (in part) by Printopia and tofigh4lan (CreativeFabrica). The overall template is created nearly exclusively by TEC-Serv. I had a need for larger than normal coasters for personal and part time production use.
There are 5 canvases in this XCS file: 1 for graphics, one for creating up to 6 coasters, one for a 4 coaster holder, and one for a 6 coaster holder, and one to layout and cut the backing pieces.

Instruction

Step1

Preview

The first canvas includes the generated graphics (xTool, myself, others noted previously). Use them as needed if changes to the face of any coaster is desired. Or, simply use graphics of your choosing.
I used several colored layers to isolate the etch, engrave and cutting operations.
The layout is very sensitive with regard to the stars and stripes elements, and each coaster is grouped. Ungroup with care to avoid excessive work.
The layout has generic 'Name' where you need to place family members, friends names. I have tried to include build comments and labels on the Canvas to provide clarity.
Layouts for cutting and engraving both sizes of Coaster Holders (4ea and 6ea) and these assume a backing of no more than 5mm in thickness
The cover photo shows the backing I used which was purchased in bulk from Amazon
You might consider placing 10mm foam ‘dots’ on the back of the backing if you desire for non-slip. If so, use the 6 coaster canvas for each 4 coasters.
Since XCS modifies settings to defaults when you change materials, you should test each coaster face to fit the materials you need to use. I proofed my settings, but some may have been reset during this publish.
I Engrave at denser settings than default to provide the darker results shown on Basswood. I have also had good results coating the Basswood with one coat of clear prior to engraving, and this also minimizes smoke bleeding.
Make note that the cut settings are changed to 95/16/2 pass because I found that the default settings left some harder parts of Basswood uncut.
The TAZ settings are actually the result of two layers, a score on the outline, and an engrave for the image along with using grayscale for the bitmap mode.
The coaster holder front and back has an engraved center section, so be careful if you decide to make changes to the cut-out sections.
Assembly is straight forward for the holder, but note that the floor, or bottom, doesn't fit into slots - so use care to insure proper fit. And, if using wood glue, tack together using CA glue for part of the bottom.

Comments