Creating rubber stamps has evolved significantly from traditional methods to advanced laser engraving, offering precision, efficiency, and ease of use. The Thunder Bolt laser machine, particularly equipped with a 30-watt metal laser tube, stands out in the modern approach to stamp making. This blog will guide you through the process of designing and creating a rubber stamp using CorelDraw and LightBurn software, showcasing the benefits of using the Thunder Bolt laser.
Design in CorelDraw
Start your rubber stamp project by launching CorelDraw. This user-friendly software allows anyone to design without needing formal training. Begin with your basic idea, laying out text and images as needed.
For any borders or lines in your stamp design, make sure to select these elements, go to the “Object” tab, and choose “Convert Outline to Object.” This critical step ensures that when you import your design into LightBurn, all lines are recognized as solid objects rather than thin hairlines, which is essential for the laser engraving process.
Exporting the Rubber Stamp Design
Once you’re satisfied with your design in CorelDraw, prepare to export it for LightBurn. This involves ensuring the file is in a compatible format and all design elements are correctly configured. Adjust your file formats and export settings so that when you open the design in LightBurn, every detail is preserved, and elements like lines and borders are recognized correctly.
Import and Configure in LightBurn
After exporting, open your design in LightBurn. Here, you’ll need to outline your design with a hairline, which effectively inverts the image—turning the design area white and the background black. This creates a negative space effect which is crucial for the stamp making. Additionally, ensure you mirror the entire image to correct its orientation for engraving.
Engraving with Thunder Bolt
Now, it’s time to bring your design to life with the Thunder Bolt. Set up the laser machine with the following parameters in LightBurn: speed at 300mm/s, maximum power at 70%, minimum power at 25%, and an interval of 0.03. Also, adjust the ramp length to 0.5 and ensure ‘ramp outer edge’ is selected. These settings are optimized to achieve the best depth and clarity for your rubber stamp, ensuring clean, crisp impressions.
Laser Cutting Settings
Post-engraving, set your Thunder Bolt to cut mode. Adjust the laser power to 60% and speed to 20mm/s to precisely and cleanly cut out your rubber stamp from the sheet.
Cleaning and Mounting
Once the A4 sheet of laser plate or laser rubber has been engraved and cut, wash the rubber stamp text with a stiff-bristled brush under soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry. Mount the cleaned rubber text onto a MaxStamp holder using the double-sided tape provided in your stamp kit. Your stamp is now ready for use!
Benefits of Using Thunder Bolt
The Thunder Bolt specializes in precision engraving, making it ideal for creating detailed and durable rubber stamps. The metal laser tube ensures consistent, high-quality results that are superior to traditional engraving tools. Its robust design means less maintenance and more uptime for your business.
Business Potential
The ability to quickly and efficiently produce high-quality stamps can significantly enhance your business’s offerings. Rubber stamps are in constant demand for businesses, crafts, and personal use, providing a steady stream of potential customers. Many businesses invest in a laser machine like the Thunder Bolt solely for stamp production, given its cost-effectiveness and the high quality of output.
Conclusion
Switching from traditional methods to a Thunder Bolt laser for making rubber stamps not only modernizes your workflow but also enhances the quality and efficiency of your production process. The Thunder Bolt, with its metal laser tube, offers a cleaner, faster, and more reliable method than ever before, making it a perfect choice for businesses aiming to excel in stamp production. Whether you’re starting a new venture or upgrading an existing one, the Thunder Bolt provides a significant advantage in the competitive market of rubber stamp making.