What is a GlowForge?

A GlowForge is a laser cutter. It cuts and engraves surfaces (wood, acrylic, leather, etc.) using a laser. 

How does it work?

  • The GlowForge can can accommodate materials measuring 12″ x 20″ and up to 2″ thick. The Passthrough slot accommodates material that is up to 20″ wide, up to 1/4″ thick, and as long as you want.
  • It engraves at about 1000 dpi, with a spot size of about 0.008 in (0.2 mm).
  • It can cut and engrave on: wood, fabric, leather, acrylic, rubber, cork, food, and more.
  • It can engrave only on: glass, marble, stone, titanium, and more.
  • For a gallery of ideas, visit https://glowforge.com/discover/. 

Disclaimer

ACPL staff are not responsible for errors that occur during printing. We cannot predict when something may go wrong.

How do I get started?

  • Anyone with a valid library card in good standing can submit a project. Only personal accounts will be allowed (no business or bookmobile accounts).
  • Find or create a design and submit the file via the online request form below.
    • .svg files are preferred but the library accepts .jpg, .png, .ai, and .pdf.
    • Alternatively, you may request that staff create a design for you. Depending on the complexity and design, staff reserve the right to refuse a request.
  • Fill out all of the relevant information on the request form below and library staff will contact you regarding your project and reservation.
  • You may provide your own material with staff approval.
    • Any GlowForge brand materials are automatically accepted. You may purchase them at https://shop.glowforge.com/. 
    • Library staff reserve the right to refuse other material for any reason. Safety is our number one concern!

How much does it cost?

There is a minimum fee of $5 per project, or $5 per hour of engrave/cut time.
For library staff to assist with the design, there is an extra $10 charge. Patrons are allowed four hours of engrave/cut time per week.

If using your own material, please know that it is subject to staff approval. A staff member will be in contact with you regarding available options and costs.
Staff reserve the right to refuse an image creation/design for any reason. Staff cannot create complex or labor-intensive designs.
Click or drag files to this area to upload. You can upload up to 5 files.