I’m reading in various threads comments like ‘take the backing paper off acrylic to etch but not to cut’. If I take the backing paper off proofboard to etch, how can the GF read the QR code that I’ve just removed?
There are no stupid questions!
You actually don’t need the QR code. You can just click the upper left area where it lists the material and type in the name of the material in the “find your material” area. (It’s right below the GF symbol and above the “add artwork” button.) This is very useful when you want to use GF setting on your own material too.
well, thats just too obvious. But it is almost 2:00am and I’m diligently following the “do not leave your GF running unattended” rule whilst trying not to fall asleep
I understand completely. In no way shape or form would I promote leaving the GF unattended, but about the question of not watching the GF every moment, well…
I’ve started saving QRs by cutting out a rectangle around them. I have a little box of them next to my GF, so I can toss in the appropriate one when I’m cutting scraps. It’s also a nice way to have samples (by peeling the paper off the back of each one) of materials to show customers.
Corrugated cardboard and cotton cloth.
The cotton cloth was bad enough that I would not recommend it.
Corrugated cardboard (amazon boxes) need watching all the time and don’t make sharp corners and it is fine. Rounded corners pose a very little risk but start trying to make intricate, tight corners and whoa!
hey, i’ve successfully done test living hinges in corrugated cardboard without any flames!
but i was sitting right there paying attention.
the flames issue with cardboard is not a big deal if you’re paying attention. i’ve only had real flareup once, and that was because i was sloppy with settings and didn’t notice my typo.
and it’s really easy to take care of. lift the lid and a dab of damp cloth and it’s out.
Re: removing the paper on acrylic or not. The problem, as with most other materials is weeding. It can be a real pain weeding (removing the remaining paper bits from the finished product). I find, however, that I get a frosty area (flash, blowback, smoke?) around my etching on acrylic if I remove the paper, and a clean design if I etch through the paper and weed the small areas with my thumbnail after it’s done. Cutting is no problem with the paper on. As an old vinyl cutter user, weeding can be time consuming, but I weed as the next itemis being lasered.