The Shed Labrador, Inc. Makerspace (Labrador City Library)

Review the Glowforge Safety guidelines here.

• Do not put anything inside the Glowforge that is not CO2 laser compatible. See Approved Materials. 
• Do not leave things on or around the Glowforge.
• Do not stack multiple materials; for example, attempting to cut two or more sheets of material at a time.
• When a print is complete, certain materials, like plastics, can remain hot. Allow them to cool down before you touch them.
• Only use flat materials in the Glowforge.
• Material must fit in the bed of the Glowforge.
  • Size for Glowforge Pro: 12″ x 20″     
  • Thickness Pro: 0-0.25" for cutting, Up to 2" for engraving

While in use-

• Do not leave the Glowforge unattended – either when it’s paused and ready to print (with the button flashing) or while it’s actually printing (with the button on). Always stay within sight and look inside frequently.
• Do not touch the head or arm of the Glowforge unit while the power is on. If you do so by accident, turn it off, then back on again to prevent the possibility of damage.
• There may be some odor present while the machine is running. However, if you detect a strong, sharp smell that also causes eye, nose, or throat irritation, or if there is visible smoke escaping while the lid is closed, stop immediately.
• A small, candle-like flame where the laser beam strikes the material is normal. This flame should move with the laser and should not remain lit when the laser has moved past.
• If there is a lasting flame inside the Glowforge unit that does not extinguish when the laser has moved past:
  1. Pull the plug on the back of the unit.
  2. If it is safe to do so, extinguish the fire with a wet towel. Note that water may damage your Glowforge.
  3. If that is not an option, then if it is safe to do so, extinguish the fire with a fire extinguisher. 

General Safety Reminders

• Identify where the first aid kit and fire extinguishers are located. 
• Do not make any abrupt movements; be cautious of your surroundings.
• Inform a staff member if something doesn't work. If you know how to fix the problem, fix it with the staff member, but you should not attempt to repair the equipment.
• Be respectful of the space, equipment, materials, other users, and facilitators/staff who may be assisting.
• Ask questions and view the information within this guide if you are unsure about any equipment in the space.

Review the Glowforge Pro user manual.

Glowforge offers a series of videos covering all the basics. To view the full series click here or go to Glowforge YouTube.

The Glowforge Print web app is free. It includes a built-in materials library.