Imported Image Does Not Etch

I imported an image into Lightburn. I did trace image to be able to use the outline on the sign as a cut line, dragged it back on top of the image, double checked cuts and layers, pushed start and all the laser did was the cut line, no image. The output for the image layer was on.

I don’t understand why the image won’t etch. I showed up in the preview screen, I just don’t know.

Thanks!

Dale
Logo.lbrn2 (527.0 KB)

I would try image first then cut separately.
Little confused on why you want to do an image here.

Yeah, same here. You have both on the same layer, but different settings for that layer. Make the image Layer 01 and the cutouts as Layer 02. Why are you cutting out what you burned in the image? Are these the finish pieces you want to use?

An explamation of what you are trying to accomplish would help.

That is what was emailed to me by a friend. I’m trying to make a sign for the front of a podium. why do you ask why I’m using an image? If I were to etch the trace image lines, I wouldn’t get any greyscale. If you have another way to do this, I’m all ears. I’m still pretty new at this.

Thanks!

Dale

We are trying to determine what the finished product looks like. You have both a cut and image operation on the same layer, with different settings. I am guessing this will not work in Lightburn.

Also, your speed is very low to be etching. The question is whether or not you want to perform both operations or just one.

Thanks Mike,

I’ll try to make this simpler. First I’ll etch the image at a speed of around 170-180 and power at around 25%.

When completed, I’ll cutout using either trace image to isolate the outside line, or the offset tool. Which do you recommend? Or is there a better way?

Dale

Settings are based on my S30 Pro, so you may have to adjust them to suit your application. You now have an image and a cutout of the entire image. Let me know if this is not what you wanted.
Logo-Revised.lbrn2 (540.9 KB)

OK, starting from scratch, I’ve selected the image, set the image layer to 170, 20%. Only 1 layer appears. When I start, it finishes instantly. I’m lost, I need help!

Not starting with the file I just sent?

Thank you Mike,

I kinda feel like someone did my school work, and I didn’t earn a passing grade. Can you explain to me what you did?

The cut line is from trace image the text has been deleted. Do I need to drag this on top of the image? and set for last on the list?

Then, I need to ask about T2. I’ve read the description of this color but not sure how it applies to my project.

I really appreciate your help!

Dale

First, understand I am no guru or magic worker. If you read through the postings, you will soon learn who they are.

You had 2 parts, the line cuts and the raster image. I slid the image over and saw you had traced the image to get the lines. Knowing you wanted to burn the image and cut that out, I moved the cuts out of the way. Then I moved the image into the work area and assigned it to the black layer (bottom row).

Next, I selected only the outermost cut and assigned it to the next (blue?) layer. I may have Ungrouped the cuts. I slid the outer cut over top the image. I had to zoom to get it exact on the sides and top. The bottom was a little long, but I easily slid it up to match the image.

You did all the heavy lifting. I just simply moved parts around and tweaked one.

The other cuts I assignrd to the T2 layer. Tool layers are not output, but can be used in Framing. I usually use T1 as a rectangle of the workpiece to show where I can place my parts. I have 12" square and 100mm x 150mm ply sheets.

Normally, the sequence of operations will follow the top down listings in the Cuts window. Images should be done first, and cutouts afterwards.

I hope what I described makes sense to you. If not, let me know.

P.S. If you still want to cut out the inner parts, move that on top of the image and assign it to the red layer. Then resequence the layers in the Cuts window. I will leave that to you to discover how (Hint - you can move layers up and down).

Thank you Mike,

I think I basically did the same except, my cut and image layer were the same.

I noticed you have a background, me, I was sales and marketing so this is pretty all new to me. I got the bug fast. I got a 20 watt diode and 3 months later, I got a 60 watt CO2. My goal is to sell enough to pay for the machines, and have fun (I already worked for 46 years), I’m about half way there. By the way, the Pinecrest Inn is in Pinehurst, NC. If you’re ever up here to golf, let me know.

Dale

I am jealous!

I considered doing the same, but did not want to risk it turning into a job. I might try a local craft fair and see what happens tho…

Not a golfer, but do visit NC occasionally. I have driven Tail of the Dragon (318 curves in 11 miles) 3 times in my 2014 Corvette. I bet my arms were more tired than your golf arms! :joy:

Back on task: Have fun with your laser and feel free to share some of your projects.

Mike

Not a golfer either, I spent 44 years in San Francisco and retired here. I do have a 2300 sq ft wood shop though.

Right now, I’m going nuts trying to duplicate what you did. Funny thing, if I take the file you made, and move it around my workspace there is nothing in the preview window. Also, same if I resize. I truly do not understand!

In the Laser window, check Cut Selected Graphics.
In the Edit, Device Settings window, Make sure your actual work area is entered in the upper left boxes.

If any part of a selected image is outside that work area, Lightburn will complain and not show that part. As long as your objects are within the work area, they will appear in the Preview window, IF SELECTED.

I found this link to a series of Lightburn YouTubes. After you watch one of them about 5 times, it will start to make sense.

Not what I intended…
Go here…

Below the video is text: LightBurn Tutorial Playlist:
Click on the link and you will get a page of 59 videos. Copy the URL to a shortcut.

Have fun!!!

Thanks Mike,

I was just going to email you saying I figured it out.

Thanks again!

This is excellent!

Sample

Ha! Now you are cooking with electricity. Great first result.