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🛠️ Getting Started with LightBurn: A Quick Guide for First-Time Users

LightBurn is a powerful design and control software for laser cutters. Whether you're engraving wood, cutting acrylic, or marking metal, this guide will help you launch your first project with confidence.

🔌 Setup & Device Connection

  • Launch LightBurn and add your laser device.
  • Use “Find My Laser” if connected via USB, or manually enter specs for networked machines.
  • Confirm your workspace size matches your laser bed dimensions.

🖼️ Workspace Overview

  • Left Toolbar: Basic drawing tools—rectangle, circle, line, text.
  • Center Canvas: Your design area. Drag, resize, and position elements here.
  • Right Panels:
  • Laser: Controls for starting/stopping jobs.
  • Cuts/Layers: Assign power, speed, and mode (cut/engrave) to each design element.
  • Console: View G-code and send manual commands.

✏️ Creating Your First Design

  • Use shape tools to draw or import a file (.SVG, .DXF, .AI, .PNG).
  • Assign each object to a layer and configure settings:
  • Speed: How fast the laser moves.
  • Power: Laser intensity.
  • Mode: Line (cut), Fill (engrave), or Offset Fill.

📐 Positioning & Preview

  • Use the Frame button to test the laser’s path without firing.
  • Click Preview to simulate the job and estimate time.

🚀 Sending the Job

  • Double-check your material placement.
  • Click Start to begin the job.
  • Monitor progress and pause if needed.

🧰 Tips & Safety

  • Always wear safety glasses.
  • Ventilate your workspace.
  • Use scrap material to test settings before final runs.