Easy Glowforge Gift Tag Tutorial

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Looking for a creative way to personalize your holiday gifts? Learn how to design and laser-cut custom gift tags using a Glowforge laser cutter. In this tutorial, I’ll show you step-by-step how to combine shapes, create outlines, and add engravings to your gift tags.

You can print the instructions below, and there’s a free SVG file included to help you get started.

Supplies You’ll Need For Your Gift Tag:

• Glowforge laser cutter
• Proofgrade Glowforge EcoThin Acrylic (or other material)
• Paint and paintbrush
• Tweezers
• Optional: Sharpie for adding names manually

Step 1: Create the Base Gift Tag Shape

1. Open Glowforge Design App
   Go to app.glowforge.com and select “Create a New Design.” Choose “Blank Design” to start with a clean slate.
2. Insert Shapes
   • Use the Insert Shape tool (a premium feature). Select a polygon and set it to have 8 corners to create a stop sign shape.
   • Add a square shape, ensuring it matches the size of the polygon.
3. Combine the Shapes
   • Select both shapes. Click the “Create Outline” button (the mountain icon) to generate a single outline.
   • Adjust the outline size to approximately 2 inches wide using the ruler in the app.
4. Add a Circle for the Ribbon
   • Insert a small circle near the top of the tag. Ensure it’s centered and at least 0.125 inches in diameter. This will serve as the ribbon hole.

Step 2: Engrave and Cut Your Design

1. Upload Engraving Design
   Drag and drop your SVG design (provided as a freebie with this tutorial) into the Glowforge app. Resize and position the design within the gift tag outline.
2. Set Line Types
   • Select the text or design for engraving.
   • Set the gift tag outline and ribbon hole to “Cut.”
3. Prepare the Material
   • Place a scrap piece of Proofgrade Glowforge EcoThin Acrylic in the laser bed.
   • Let the Glowforge scan and identify the material.
4. Start Cutting
   • Move your design to the desired position on the material in the layout view.
   • Click “Print” and let the Glowforge prepare. Press the flashing white button to start engraving and cutting.

Step 3: Finishing Touches

1. Remove the Masking
   • Once cutting is complete, peel off the masking layer from the acrylic using tweezers.
   • Remove the masking while the paint is still wet to avoid bleeding or pulling.
2. Add Paint (Optional)
   • Apply paint to the engraved areas with a brush. Make sure the paint fills all the details.
   • Use a dry paper towel to clean any excess paint off the acrylic surface.
3. Attach a Ribbon
   • Thread a ribbon or cord through the circle. Tie it to your gift or create a decorative bow.

Tips for Customizing Your Gift Tags

• Adding Names:
  Use design software to engrave “To” and “From” directly onto the tag. If you don’t have design software, write names with a Sharpie after the tag is finished.
• Materials:
  Experiment with wood or other acrylic colors for a variety of looks.
• Engraving Options:
  Use the provided SVG designs or create your own custom engravings for a personal touch.

Download Your Free SVG File

Get started with this free gift tag SVG. It’s compatible with most cutting software, not just Glowforge.

Creating your own laser-cut gift tags is a fun way to add a unique touch to your holiday gifts. Whether you use them for friends, family, or even your small business, these tags are sure to impress!

If you enjoyed this tutorial you will love these!

• Laser Cut Wood Sign With Acrylic
• Glowforge Aura Review
• Easy Laser Cut Keychain Tutorial

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