ideaLAB Laser Cutter Policies and FAQ

What Can You Make?

A laser cutter uses focused light to cut and etch a variety of materials like wood, cardboard, and acrylic with laser precision. Here are some projects that showcase just a few possibilities.

Where is this Equipment Available?

• Sam Gary Branch ideaLAB - Glowforge Pro
• Central Library ideaLAB - Glowforge Pro
• Hampden Branch ideaLAB (Currently Closed)

How It Works

Prepare Your Design File

You can choose a design from the Glowforge software or create your own before your visit.

• Vector files (.SVG) are recommended for cutting and scoring
• Image files (.JPG or .PNG) work best for engraving
• Design software options: Inkscape tutorial for tracing images or Adobe Illustrator (available at alll ideaLABs).

Preparing your file ahead of time will help you make the most of your session. You may also find or edit designs during your reservation.

Reserve Your Time

Use of the Glowforge Laser is primarily by reservation.

• Reservations are 2 hours, once a week
• Reservations can be made up to 2 weeks in advance
• A Denver Public Library card is required
• Reserve by calling or visit one of the available branches above to book your session

Bring Your Materials

Users must bring their own materials. We may have cardboard available for testing, but materials are not guaranteed.

• Materials must be approved by ideaLAB staff before use (see approved list below)
• Bring proof of purchase or documentation showing material composition
• Staff can help you evaluate whether your materials are safe

Create!

• Check in with staff to help you get started
• You must remain with the laser cutter during your session
• Set-up and clean-up time are part of your 2-hour reservation

Approved and Available Materials

• Please bring your own materials. The library does not provide materials for the Laser Cutter, though we usually have some cardboard if you want to try an idea out.
• All materials should come with proof of purchase or other documentation specifying what the material consists of.
• Glowforge "Proofgrade" materials are easy to verify and speed up setup. Proofgrade materials can be purchased from Glowforge or major craft retailers. 

Material Size Limits

• Bed Size: 20 inches by 18 inches
• Maximum Laser-able Area: 19.5 inches by 11 inches
• Maximum Cutting Height: 1/4 inch
• Maximum Engraving Height: 2 inches

If you need to cut materials down to size, saws and clamps are available in the lab.

The following materials may produce toxic fumes, reflect the laser, or pose fire hazards and must never be used:

• Polyvinyl Carbonate (PVC)
• Polycarbonate
• Foam board
• Highly reflective or uncoated metal and plastics
• MDF > ⅛” (etching exempted)
• Any material > ¼” (etching exempted)

If staff cannot verify what a material is made of, it cannot be used. 

Note: The current machines cannot engrave round objects like bottles or glasses.

Reservation Use and Policies

To ensure safe and fair access:

• Check in with ideaLAB staff before using the machine
• Late arrivals: reservations are canceled after 10 minutes.
• If the machine is unavailable due to maintenance, staff will notify you when possible
• Do not attempt to repair or disassemble equipment
• Unsafe or intentional misuse will result in loss of privileges. 

ideaLAB staff may refuse any material they believe to be unsafe. Use of unapproved materials results in immediate loss of laser cutter access.

Projects must finish before the end of your session. Jobs cannot be left running overnight or past your reservation time.

While staff provide guidance, they are not responsible for projects that do not turn out as expected.

Safety Waiver

Use of ideaLAB equipment requires agreement to the Behavior Agreement and Advisement of Potential Risks Associated with Use of Tools at the Denver Public Library