What is it?
Adobe Illustrator is a program that is used to create vector images. It is used by graphic designers and artists to create things such as logos, charts, graphs, diagrams, and other art.
Laser key chain
I designed a key chain and used the Universal laser to cut it out of Plexiglas and engrave it. First I used Illustrator to create the vector design I wanted. First you insert all the text, images, and shapes you want on your design. You must make all images a vector by clicking the image, clicking image trace, and finally clicking expand. Red lines will cut out, blue lines vector engrave, and all other colors raster engrave. The lines must be set to .0001 and RGB red in order to cut.
In order to print on the laser, save your Illustrator to a flash drive and plug it into the computer that is connected to the laser. Open up the illustrator file and print it to the Universal Control Panel (UCP). It should look like the screen below. As long as it has the right settings, it is ready to print.
Line up the laser with the desired area you want it to cut. Close the lid and start the print.
My Final Product:
vinyl cutter name
I used the vinyl cutter to make a vinyl sticker of my name. I typed my name into Illustrator to get the file shown below. Then I sent it to the vinyl cutter like I was printing the file and it cut out the letters on a role of vinyl that I loaded into the machine.
My finished product:
WHAT I learned
In this introduction unit, I learned how to use Illustrator to set up and use the laser and vinyl cutter. I learned that Illustrator is for vector designs, so I would have to edit any images that I insert into Illustrator off the Internet. With the laser cutter and engraver, I know how to set up the file and the important rules like red for cutting and blue for engraving. The illustrator file then needs to be opened in the UCP so it can be printed. With the vinyl cutter, I learned how to properly weed and use the application tape to apply my vinyl cut without any problems. My new knowledge in Illustrator will continue to help me learn how to use the laser and vinyl cutter for more unique projects in the future.