Inkscape is extremely useful for me in combination with a laser cutter.
Our local makerspace has a cutter and I've been intrigued about how to use it.
I've got experience in 3D modelling (beginner Fusion360 user) but have never worked with designing for a cutter.
Draw up a design, then assign toolpaths to:
- cut all the way through
- engrave making a light--dark mark
- Save as SVG
- Import into LightBurn
- Set your speeds and strengths
- Export to laser cutter
That’s very simplified, as designing for laser cutters has some “gotchas” (merging shapes to create connected outlines, cut vs etch, etch before cut, inside parts before outlines, etc etc), but it’s the general idea and can get you started.
I generally recommend starting with basic stuff like text in a simple shape that consists of a single cut line (keyring, nameplate on a door, Christmas bauble, etc). Etch the text, cut out the shape around it. Work your way up from there.
It's so easy it's deceptive.
Oh, and wear those safety glasses.
I don't remember this much, but a previous me wrote a guide for lasering using Inkscape for Edinburgh Hacklab. I don't think the process has changed much... https://wiki.ehlab.uk/inkscape_for_lasering