MSRaynsford

I just started to dig into the laser today after speaking to HPC, most of the plastic parts are melted but the metal work is generally ok. The guys at HPC were keen to help out, initially suggesting I take it over for a looksie tomorrow which is great service, so I've taken these photos so they can assess the damage and we'll discuss it further shortly More after the jump as usual

One of my card spheres actually caught fire while it was cutting, sadly I had my back turned and I didn't notice it until it was too late. The fire has melted most of the wiring, the plastic wheels on the axis and the drive belt as well as untold damage to the lenses and mirrors. I'm hoping to be in touch with HPC quickly to see what they can do about getting me up and running again. Sadly this will be the last post until I get it fixed and then I'll be playing some serious catch up on this blog project. It couldn't come at a worse time either, money is tight because we're trying to move house again. If you like what I'm doing and you want to see me up and running again quickly then please consider a small donation to speed things along. More photos of laser carnage after the jump

This one feels like a little bit of a cheat because it doesn't actually use square cards. I got halfway through it though and decided it could be better, stay tuned for the redesign. More pictures after the jump

This week I have also mostly been making these, or more accurately the wedding cards that previously surrounded these, but these could be used as some table confetti that matches the rest of the theme.

After 2 non spheres I thought it was time to post a decent shape. Cut in a two tone card I really like the colours on this one and am desperately looking for more 2 tone card (and having trouble finding it). ( svg here ) More photos after the jump

I took a second attempt at the icosahedron but this one kinda failed too. I was still able to assemble the parts into some interesting shapes. More photos after the jump

The second card sphere is a little bit of a let down. It's an icosahedron but it doesn't really have the strength to stay spherical so it is a little flat. It still looks good though. More photos after the jump

Kicking off the first in a series of laser cut playing card spheres is this little design made from 30 playing cards. These are a challenge to make and put together but well worth the effort. ( svg here ) Consider this fair warning that I intend to remake and repost this one as soon as I find some more appropriate card stock. More photos after the jump

I finally have the cardboard to start making these wedding invites . I started to load my paper frame into the machine and realised that things would be much better/easier with a revamped design. ( svg here ) Arches underneath for airflow above and below the paper  A4 paper that can be dropped onto the top  The paper is clamped with 2 separate pieces making it easier to move and change The top half of the frame is smaller and looks less like it is going to hit the laser Corner bracing to help keep the frame square (mostly easier to assemble it squarely) The work is held at roughly the same height as my honeycomb bed so when I switch frames over I don't have to adjust the height too much.