Contributed Photo: Sign-ups for a free laser cutting class in Globe closes today.
Contributed Article
GLOBE – Sign up ASAP for this one, if you’re an adult enthused to learn a few basics of graphic design – and to leave the class carrying your unique design laser-etched onto a tumbler that will be yours to keep!
The Feb. 17 Saturday class is free but limited to 10 adult enrollees. Instructor David Flores will demonstrate graphic design using Inkscape, followed by a chance for each learner to see their finished design precisely etched by an OMTech 80-watt laser. Saturday’s free class is offered by the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Gila County; where Instructor David Flores “is our mobile maker guru” according to staff and has been coaching High Desert Middle Schoolers on how to use 3-D printers and the OMTech laser. Sign up for this class online here. Sign-up closes Wednesday, Feb. 15 at 3 p.m.
Questions? Call Cooperative Extension Gila County staff at 402-8585, or else call 480-895-9673
“Laser cutters are awesome tools, and the Extension Office is a place where you can laser-cut cool projects,” says David Flores. “This is the class for anyone wanting to learn to use the laser cutter. Learn how to cut and engrave with the 80-watt laser. We will get hands-on, and everyone will make themselves a laser-engraved tumbler. This is a three-hour workshop, please plan to be there for all of it. Laser cutters are great for cutting wood, acrylic, paper, fabric, and some other materials (it cannot cut metal). During class, we will cover why some materials are not safe because of toxic fumes. Safety is related to the various systems as well as fires that can occur inside the laser cutter. No experience is necessary. Ages 18 and up. Those under 18 can be trained on the laser but would still require a trained 4-H leader to supervise the use.”
