Laser Cutting and Engraving

Discover the exciting world of laser cutting and engraving! Explore this innovative technology to create intricate designs on a variety of materials.

How to Use the Glowforge

The Glowforge is not available for drop-in use. Bookings include access to the machines and necessary materials only. While staff are generally available for quick questions and assisting with machine setup, they will not be available to walk you through an entire project from beginning to end. You can book the Glowforge using the Online Booking page.

  • Cost: $5.00/hour
  • Location: Downtown
  • Bookable: Yes

Material Guide

Only materials that are safe for use with a CO2 laser may be used in the Glowforge. This means the material must be confirmed as safe for laser cutting or engraving. While Glowforge offers its own line of certified Proofgrade materials, you’re welcome to bring in other laser-compatible options.

Any non-Proofgrade material must be approved by library staff prior to use. You must present a receipt, packaging, or label that clearly identifies the material’s composition. If staff cannot verify that the material is safe, appropriate, or identifiable, it will not be permitted for use. 

We strongly recommend bringing extra material for test cuts to help ensure your final project turns out as expected. 

Approved Materials: Cut & Engrave

  • 100% Acrylic
  • Leather (vegetable tanned only)
  • Wood

For the safety of library users and staff, all materials used in the Glowforge must not be painted, stained, treated, or contain glue.

Approved Materials: Engrave Only

  • 100% Natural Cork
  • Anodized Aluminum
  • Ceramic Tile
  • Glass
  • Marble
  • Stone


For the safety of library users and staff, all materials used in the Glowforge must not be painted, stained, treated, or contain glue.

Prohibited Materials

  • ABS plastic
  • Artificial leather
  • Bamboo
  • Draftboard/veneers/materials with MDF core
  • Epoxy
  • Fabric
  • Fiberglass
  • Food
  • Metal
  • Mirrors or reflective surfaces
  • Painted or treated materials
  • Personal items (laptops, tablets, etc.)
  • Polypropylene foam
  • Polystyrene foam
  • PVC, PVB, PTFE/Teflon
  • Resin
  • Stained wood
  • Vinyl

Hardware: Glowforge Pro

The Glowforge 3D laser printer etches and cuts designs into a variety of materials using a CO2 laser.

  • Cutting area: approx. 11" (279mm) deep and 19.5" (495mm) wide
  • Maximum material depth: Unlimited
  • Maximum material width: 20" (515mm)
  • Maximum material height: 2" (50mm)
  • Maximum material height with tray: 0.5" (13mm)

Software

Glowforge Print 

The Glowforge Print web app makes printing a snap, and lets you drag and drop from all the software you use already.

  • Cost: Free
  • Location: Downtown

Glowforge Print logo

Help Guides

Inspiration