To start this quick project, first download an SVG of the flag of Ireland. I used the flag image Wikipedia makes available in its entry for Flag of Ireland.

Import into XCS and size as needed for your project. I started with a sign blank that was 144mm wide, so I resized the imported image to be 140mm high (to leave a 2mm margin around each edge), which made the flag image 280mm wide.

For this project, assume we have a white background. So you’ll need to create two color panels—green and orange. Set one of the side panels in the design to Output using Cut processing. Set everything else to Ignore.

Now pick a color to start. Going left to right on the flag, I’ll suggest starting with  green . For the purposes of these instructions, I'll assume you're using opaque green acrylic. For this panel, I used a new sheet of acrylic. Remove any plastic film that may be on either side of your acrylic. If the acrylic is masked by paper, remove the paper on one side where you plan to cut out your green panel. Put your material in the engraver and select 3mm Green Acrylic Sheet from the Material list, then auto-measure, making sure you have some material directly under the measuring dot.

Now select the rectangle you plan to engrave, and set it to the reference settings for Cut processing. Make sure all the other objects on the canvas are set to Ignore, and Frame to ensure your material will cut where you expect. Now process.

Next, you'll create the  orange  cutout. Again I'll assume you're using opaque orange acrylic. For this panel, I used some scrap from an earlier job I'd done. In such cases, you'll want to make sure you're very careful placing the material on the engraving surface, ensuring you don't scratch the back side (particularly if any masking has already been removed from both sides). Select 3mm Orange Acrylic Sheet from the Material list, then auto-measure. Again, be sure you have some material directly under the measuring dot.

Select the rectangle you plan to engrave, and set it to the reference settings for Cut processing. Again, ensure everything else is set to Ignore, and Frame to confirm it will cut where you expect. Now process this sheet.

I'd cut orange acrylic before, so I pretty much knew what to expect there. But this was the first time I'd cut green acrylic, and I wasn't expecting the messy edges I saw.

Regardless, you should plan to sand (and optionally buff) the edges of each panel. Sand flat against each edge, then also at an angle against both sides of each edge to smooth out any rough cuts or sharp edges. For me, I had to angle very close to the surface to remove all the cruft from the top edge of the cut on that green piece.

My intent for this project was to adhere the two color panels on a white background. I used a sign blank from Dollar Tree, which was 144mm wide by about 500mm long.

Using a jigsaw blade specifically for laminate, cut a straight line near one end of the material. I typically cut some off the end of MDF sign blanks because the corners can get crushed a bit in shipping and stocking. Then measure out the length of your flag design, mark, and cut again. Since my flag was 280mm wide, and I wanted a 2mm margin all around, I measured and cut at 284mm.

Now with all your pieces ready, it's time to glue the color panels on the background material. I used Glue Dots brand permanent craft dots from a roll dispenser. Carefully place each panel on the background, allowing an equal margin around each of the three sides closest to the edge. Press firmly on the material for about 15 seconds to help it set.

Once fully assembled, use a lint-free microfiber towel to clean the final product, being careful not to jar any of the recently adhered panels.

Now display your flag proudly as you celebrate your Irish heritage on this St. Patrick's Day!