So you’ve decided to dip your toe into the world of laser engravers! As you’ve been researching, you’ve probably realized there are lots of different laser engraving machines to choose from, each with its own special features that allow you to cut and engrave everything from leather to acrylic to wood and even certain metals.
In this post, we’re going to take a look at the Creality Falcon Laser 2 40W engraver, from set up to engraving and cutting your first project. So, let’s dive right in!
Unboxing and Assembly
When you open the shipping box for your Creality laser engraving machine, you’ll see it is well-packaged, and all of the components are nicely separated by packing foam.
After removing everything from the box, go ahead and attach the feet.
Next, you’ll attach the air pump. Remove the rubber plug from the pump and attach the hose from the laser engraver. Lastly, plug the air pump into the laser bed.
The last thing to attach is the laser head. Simply place the laser head onto the rail and tighten it down using the thumb screws on the side.
In the accessory box that comes with your laser engraver, you’ll find cable clips and straps to help manage the air hoses and cords.
Accessories
If you didn’t order the honeycomb bed with your laser engraving machine, you’ll want to order one before you start engraving. Read on to see the benefits of using a honeycomb bed.
Another helpful accessory is an enclosure. Laser engraving machines produce a lot of smoke, and the enclosure helps keep it contained.
Get Ready to Burn
Your very first project should be a material test generator. This test will show you at what speed you need to set your engraving machine to engrave and cut out each type of material.
First, download the Lightburn software. Then place a piece of basswood on your honeycomb bed.
Next, you’ll use the focusing tool (the little black stairstep tool) to adjust the height of your laser head. Simply loosen the screws on the side of the head, and drop it down to the recommended height depending on if you’ll be engraving or cutting and what thickness your material is.
Next, in the Lightburn software, choose Laser Tools and then Materials Test.
This will show you a grid with speeds and power percentages. You can edit them if you’d like, but for your first burn, it might be best to just go with the default settings.
Select the Start button, and voila, you’re using your new laser engraver. Yay!
Material Test
After your material test is done, you’ll notice different shades of boxes and even some that are completely cut out. The purpose of the material test is to show you at what speed and power you want your settings to engrave and cut out your project.
You’ll want to create a material test for each type of material you’ll be working with on your laser engraver.
Making a Project
Check Etsy for laser-cut files. Start with a simple project like a Memory Game with a box that allows you to engrave and cut and have a fun gift to give away.
Place your ⅛” (3mm) basswood on the honeycomb bed, check and adjust your engraving and cutting settings, and the height of your laser head. Then, choose Frame on the Lighburn screen.
The laser will travel around the outside perimeter of your project, framing in where your project will cut and burn. You can then adjust your material so that the project fits on it.
When you have a project that needs cutting and engraving, be sure to set your laser engraver to engrave before cutting. Doing this ensures that cut pieces don’t move around while you’re engraving.
While there is so much more the Creality Falcon laser can do, laser engraving and cutting out a project is just that easy.
Precise or Normal
On the top of your laser head, you’ll see a button with the words “precise and normal.” These are the modes your laser engraver uses to engrave and cut. Press and hold the button on the top of your laser head to change the mode.
Precise mode is used when you want to engrave a project. While in precise mode, your laser engraver will run at 22 watts of power. Be sure the air assist function is turned off while using precise mode.
Normal mode, on the other hand, allows your laser engraver to use its full 40 watts of power. This allows the engraver to cut more precisely and quickly. Always be sure to use the air assist function while in normal mode.
Laser Engraving Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to invest in a honeycomb bed?
Yes. Not only does a honeycomb bed protect the surface under your project, but it also helps ensure cleaner material without burn marks on your final project.
Is there an easier way to line up my project?
Yes! This lightburn camera projects an image of your laser engraver bed on your computer screen so you can perfectly line up your image on your material.
Can you do more than just cut and engrave wood on the Creality Laser Engraver?
Absolutely! You can engrave on tile and slate, metal and acrylic, tumblers, and so much more. Be sure to check out all the great resources available on YouTube and Facebook to help you get the most out of your laser engraver.
Wrapping up Crafting with Lasers
There you have it, the Creality Falcon 2 laser engraving machine in a nutshell. You will love working with this machine to create lots of great projects around your home, give away as gifts, and maybe even start your own online store.Looking for more great ideas? Check out our DIY page for everything from furniture refurbishing to crafts with kids and everything in between. Happy crafting!
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