FCH - Glass Laser Engraving – SCOPES-DF
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Lesson Details

Subjects *
Design, Science
Age Ranges *
11-14, 14-18, 18+, All ages
Fab Tools *
Laser Cutter, Classroom Materials
Author
Julia Teeninga
Additional Contributors
NURIA ROBLES

Author

Julia Teeninga
Julia Teeninga

Summary

The “Glass Laser Engraving” activity is part of the FabConnectHer project, which helps young women learn new skills in science, technology, engineering, art, and maths (STEAM). In this lesson, students design their own image or text on a computer and then use a laser cutter to engrave it onto a glass object, like a jar or glass.

 

Students learn how to work with simple design software, prepare their file, and use the laser cutter safely. The activity combines creativity with technology, giving students the chance to make something personal while building useful digital making skills.

 

This lesson is suitable for middle school, high school, and college students, especially girls and young women, working in small groups. By the end, each student has a unique engraved glass they designed themselves and more confidence in using creative technology.

What You'll Need

Materials

  • Laser cutting machine, with a rotational option.
  • Computer with software (for example Inkscape)
  • Paper, if the students want to draw out their ideas before making the image in the computer.
  • Rulers and markers
  • Class object for example class, jar or similar simple rounded shapes.

 

Safety Precautions:

  • When Laser cutting there must always someone stand by the machine whilst work is in progress.
  • Take note that the object doesn’t have a reflective surface.

 

Learning Objectives

  • Learn how to design an image or text using computer software.
  • Prepare a design file in the correct format for laser engraving.
  • Understand how to safely use a laser cutter with a round glass object.
  • Create a personalised engraved glass item by combining design and technology.
  • Build confidence in using digital tools and machines for creative projects.
  • Explore how laser cutting can be applied to other materials and future design ideas.

 

Reflection

This activity gives students the chance to combine creativity with technology by designing and engraving their own glass object. They practise using design software, preparing files, and safely operating a laser cutter, which helps them understand how digital tools can be used for artistic projects.

 

Students gain confidence as they see their design turn into a finished product they can hold and share. The process encourages problem-solving, patience, and careful attention to detail, while also sparking ideas for other ways to use laser cutting. In the end, students not only take home a unique engraved glass but also valuable skills and experience with modern technology.

The Instructions

Designing (30 min.)

Students use design software to create their own text or image, check the size, and export the file as a PDF ready for laser engraving.

  • Students open up the computers and either make their own text (here is a good time to talk about copyright material)
  • Provide students with information on how to navigate inside the design program.
  • Make sure they have the image and measurement correct
  • Proceed to make a pdf document
  • Move to Laser cutter

 

Engraving (45 minutes)

Students learn how to safely use the laser cutter, place their glass object in the machine, and engrave their design onto it.

  • Demonstrate the proper and safe use of the laser cutting machine.
  • Place your glass item in the machine
  • Use the laser cutting machine to engraving the designs 

 

Wrap- up & reflection

Students share their finished engraved glass, reflect on the process and challenges, discuss other uses for the laser cutter, and clean up the workspace safely.

Review and Showcase (15 minutes)

  • Have students share their finished project with the group.
  • Discuss the process and any challenges faced.
  • Encourage students to think of other ways to use the laser machine.

 

Cleanup (10 minutes)

  • Teach student how there can be small shards of glass as a residue from engraving. So it is important to clean well before use.
  • Ensure all materials and tools are properly cleaned and stored.
  • Make sure the workspace is tidy.

 

Lesson Feedback

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