Cut a Design

[wellsm]

The Glowforge I have was purchased a year ago. At that time, a subscription was paid for. The subscription has now expired. I called and talked to a person at Glowforge and requested an invoice, so the subscription could be renewed. That was approximately two weeks ago. I have yet to talk to anyone or receive an invoice. At this point, I don’t know that I want the subscription; however, I’m unable to use the Glowforge, because I have to have a subscription to insert text, cut, etc. What do I need to do so I can use the Glowforge?

[eflyguy]

The simple answer sounds dismissive, I don’t mean it to come across that way.

You don’t need to subscribe to anything to create files capable of being printed, but you do need to invest time learning how to use an application that does that. For me, it’s Inkscape, which has been around for something like 20 years and is as intuitive as it gets - and free. For others, they feel the need to pay for other products that they find simpler. Regardless, all allow you to create your own designs then the Glowforge “interface” lets you upload them to print. It’s essentiall just a “print driver” that turns your file into instructions for the machine to follow.

[wellsm]

Thank you for your response. This is helpful.

[chris1]

I’ll go further than that and opine that Glowforge Premium is not a substitute for design software. The subscription gets you a suite of useful tools, but ultimately, mastering one of Inkscape, Cuttle, Illustrator, Affinity Designer, etc., will get you a lot further.

Also also, as far as I know, Premium subscriptions are self-service, you just pay online. Unless, I guess, you need the invoice for a corporate purchase or something.

[wellsm]

I appreciate the additional information. This will be very helpful as I proceed with projects.

[evansd2]

So far you’re getting excellent advice you should listen to Chris and eflyguy because they are super knowledgeable.

I will add that if you have a craft series machine such as the aura or spark, there is a major restriction in terms of file size that you have to consider. You will not be able to upload files larger than 100 kB without a premium subscription if you have either of those models.

[dklgood]

You do not need an invoice to pay for the premium subscription. From the Glowforge.com page, click your email address, click settings, click manage subscription. As others have said, you can operate your Glowforge without the subscription.