Using my NEJE machine to engrave a digital doodle.
Since I got my NEJE Master 2 laser engraving and cutting machine, I've tried engraving all sorts of items that won't emit harmful fumes. Recently, I engraved a digital doodle onto a hardcover sketchbook.
Test on the Back Cover
While going through my collection of random stuff, I discovered a small hardcover sketchbook I forgot about. I figured it was a great item to test a different engraving setting with my NEJE Master 2 machine.
I used the following settings in the NEJE app:
Laser brightness: 50%
Sensitivity of tilt detection: medium
Motor speed: medium
Laser power: 15%
Burn time: 15mS
Total passes: 1
I selected the positioning button in the app to determine where to place my sketchbook under the laser. I then put on my laser goggles to adjust the focus of the laser light.
I opened my garage door to allow maximum air flow. Everything I've engraved so far emitted an odor. Some items stink more than others when engraved.
The engraving went well until my power strip shut off on its own. I didn't know it at the time, but the power strip overheated in my garage even with the garage door opened. It apparently wasn't made to withstand the Texas summer heat.
Engraving a Doodle
I used my Huion Kamvas Pro 12 to create a digital doodle for the front cover. I welcome any opportunity to practice using my drawing tablet.
After I created my digital doodle, I uploaded it to the NEJE app. I started a new engraving using the same settings for the back cover.
The engraving started well, but my power strip shut off on its own again. I figured either I had a faulty power strip, or it overheated too quickly. I faced an oscillating fan towards it and restarted the engraving.
Unfortunately, the design was misaligned even though I never touched the journal. I must've unknowingly hit the work surface shaking the sketchbook's positioning slightly.
The engraving completed successfully. It looked great despite the few overlapped lines I never intended to have.
Adding Color
While the engraving by itself looked good, I wanted color on the sketchbook cover.
I filled the deep engraved lines with slightly diluted white gouache paint. This made the text easier to read on the cover. I laid other colors of gouache paint on thick because I only wanted to apply one coat. I felt lazy on this day.
My Thoughts
Engraving is an awesome way to personalize a hardcover sketchbook! A lower laser power worked well. I didn't worry about the laser burning in too deep with the settings I used.
I swapped the power strip with one from inside my house. Both are working well and not shutting off on their own. I determined that the power strip that was in the garage wasn't faulty, but rather not useful in warm or hot environments.
What's Next?
I have several arts and crafts projects I'm working on. I hope to share those with you soon!
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Thanks, and have a great day!
Simply Jelly Jam
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