Our Equipment
PDL’s Makerspace is equipped with the Muse 3D laser cutter.
RED–Training required for use.
You can make an endless variety of useful, beautiful, and practical things from many different materials such as; wood, leather, felt, fabric, acrylic, paper, and more with the Muse 3D.
*Patrons can come to our Makerspace during our Staffed Hours to use the laser engraver. The laser engraver is for drop-in use only, and we do not schedule appointments on this device. Patrons cannot use the Muse without Library Staff present.
We highly recommend bringing a test piece of your material with you when you come to use the laser engraver.
*Please plan on using the Muse during our Staffed Hours which are listed our events calendar. You can email createandmake@portagelibrary.info or call the library at 269-329-4544 if you have any questions.
What Material Can The Muse 3D Cut/Engrave?
The Muse can cut wood, fabric, untreated leather, paper, Plexiglas (acrylic), Delrin (acetal), mylar, rubber, fiberglass, Corian, foods, and more.
The Muse can also engrave all of the above plus glass, coated metal, marble, anodized aluminum, titanium, some phones, tablets, and laptops, and more.
What Is The Thickest Material The Muse Can Cut?
The Muse performs well with many materials 1/4” and less on a single pass. It can accommodate material as thick as 1/2”, but may require multiple passes or flipping the material over. For engraving, you can remove the tray and insert objects as thick as 2”. It can then engrave the surface up to 0.5”, depending on the material.
Are There Materials That The Muse 3D Cannot Cut?
Yes. Vinyl, artificial leather, and a variety of plastics do not cut well in the laser cutter and can be dangerous. Please see below for a full list of approved and unapproved materials that can be used in the laser cutter.
Materials
Patrons must bring in their own materials to use in the Muse. Please bring a receipt or tag that states what the material is made of.
Library staff must approve the material before it is used in the Muse.
Approved materials include:
Most woods (unstained/unpainted)
Paper, cardstock, or Crescent board
Cardboard
Untreated leather
Cork
Acrylic, Lucite, Plexiglas, or PMMA
Non-chlorine-containing rubber
Glass
Stone, marble, granite, soapstone,or onyx
Ceramic tile
MakerSpace does not engrave or cut:
Stained woods
Most Metals
MDF
Vinyl
Plastic
Polycarbonate/LEXAN
Foam
Fiberglass
More information about Approved Laser Cutter Materials
List of approved Muse Laser Engraver/Cutter Materials
List of Materials that you CANNOT cut with the Muse Laser cutter