Laser Engraving: For Laser Cut Digital Etching

Laser engraving involves first generating a digital black and white graphic image based on a linear design or from a black and white photo. The second stage requires working with the image in Photoshop to prepare it for the laser machine. The laser machine is then calibrated; tests are conducted on different acrylic sheets to gauge the depth and thickness of the lines to be laser cut. The image is then engraved into the surface of the acrylic using the laser machine, cutting to the required depth.

The engraved design is inked just as one would do with a drypoint etch on an acrylic sheet. The ink is cleaned off the surface, leaving the design as ink-filled engraved lines in the acrylic. Finally, the image is printed onto dampened paper in an etching press.

Liz Byrne has been a practising printmaker for over 20 years and is a founding member of the Manorhamilton Print Group. As a creator of printwork inspired by the atmospheric landscapes of North Leitrim, she produces relief and intaglio prints, monoprints, and screen prints. Liz is currently collaborating with fellow printmakers on a self-designed project and plays an active role in the North Leitrim Intercultural Forum animation project with the local Ukrainian community. She has recently completed an exhibition print residency at Leitrim Sculpture Centre in collaboration with Phoebe Dick.

Stuart Lawn is currently the director of FABLAB Manorhamilton, a digital fabrication facility and creative makerspace in rural Leitrim. He believes, given half a chance, everyone has a great design or an innovative product inside them and he really wants to be there to help make that spark of creativity happen.