Project:Jigsaw Puzzles

ProjectInfoBox Jigsaw Puzzles

Status:	work in progress
Release Date:	2025-02-19
Initiator:	B--rian
Materials Used:	4mm poplar plywood, e.g. [ (no affiliation)
Tools Used:	Laser Cutter
Software Used:	Gimp, Inkscape, Lasercutter-Software
Approx. Cost:	Up to now: A4 poplar sheets 3,45€ machine running donnation: 0,80€

Puzzles Examples

Isn't that what comes to mind first, when getting started with laser cutting wood?

The following recipe is not complete yet!

Select and Prepare the Image: Choose a high-resolution color image for your puzzle. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and saturation using photo editing software.
Dither the image.
Designing the puzzle pieces using a tool like ...
Using a vector graphics tool like Inkscape, check the outline for your puzzle.

We have to ensure that all the puzzle piece lines are recognized by the laser cutter as cutting paths.
Choose a laser-friendly material such as plywood or acrylic, see [Materials].
Set the laser cutter parameters (speed and power) according to the material being used, usually provided by the laser cutter's manual.

Start up the water cooler.
Switch on the laser cutter.
Send the design from the laser cutter software to the machine by hitting the "Download" button.
Secure the material onto the laser cutter bed.
With open laser cutter lid, hit Start which will simulate the actual cutting. The red positioning laser allows you to check, whether you will stay on your piece of material.
If everything looks ok, close the lid, and go for it! Monitor the laser cutter during operation to ensure nothing catched fire.

PS: This is WIP, so please be a bit patient with me. --B--rian (talk) 21:24, 19 February 2025 (CET)