How to Easily Manipulate Text to Cut Out in One Piece Using LightBurn

By: The Louisiana Hobby Guy

This article & video explains two simple methods to manipulate text in LightBurn software so that it can be cut out in one piece, including using offset and automatic welding techniques. It also covers how to visualize layered projects effectively and offers tips on scoring lines and project assembly for laser cutting enthusiasts.

Many people have asked how to manipulate text in LightBurn so that a name or word can be cut out in one continuous piece. This article will guide you through two straightforward methods to achieve this, along with tips on visualizing your layered projects.

LightBurn is a powerful software for laser cutting and engraving. When cutting text, especially names or phrases, it’s often desirable to have all the letters joined so the entire word cuts out as a single piece. This avoids individual letters falling apart.

In this tutorial, we will use the example of a name in both uppercase and lowercase using the Bales font.

Method 1: Using Offset to Join Letters

The first and simplest method to join letters is by using the offset feature:

  1. Select your text.
  2. Click on the Offset tool on the left side of the screen.
  3. Set the offset distance to a value that visually connects the letters. Choose Outer Shapes Only and Select Resulting Objects.
  4. Choose Outward Round for the offset style since the text is mostly rounded.
  5. Adjust the size until the letters are joined satisfactorily.
  6. Click OK.
  7. Change the layer color to red, which is typically used for cut paths.
  8. Optionally, change the layer mode to Fill to engrave the text first and then cut it out, ensuring it remains one piece.

This method creates a single continuous outline around the text, making it easy to cut out as one piece.

Method 2: Automatic Welding and Adding Score Lines

The second method involves welding the letters together and adding score lines for definition:

  1. Select your text.
  2. Adjust the horizontal spacing (HSpace) by lowering it until the letters connect.
  3. Once connected, the text may look odd or merged improperly.
  4. Use the Pencil tool to draw score lines between letters to add definition.
  • Click to start a line where you want the score.
  • Click again to end the line.
  • Press Escape or right-click to exit the line tool.
  1. Select the line and enter Node Edit mode.
  2. Drag the line to the desired position to define letter separations.
  3. Assign these score lines to a different layer (e.g., black or pink) and set them as score lines.

Score Line Settings

  • Use double the speed of your cut settings for score lines while keeping the power the same.
  • For example, if cutting at 600 mm/min at 100% power, score at 12000 mm/min at 100% power.

This method allows the text to be cut as one piece while maintaining the readability of individual letters through score lines.

Converting Text to Path and Manual Node Editing

For lowercase or script fonts where letters are not attached:

  1. Select the text.
  2. Go to Edit > Convert to Path to turn text into vector shapes.
  3. Enter Node Edit mode to see all nodes.
  4. Select nodes and drag them to connect letters manually.
  5. Use the Scissors tool to remove unnecessary lines.
  6. Adjust overlapping parts (like the dot of an “i”) by moving them to overlap and then trimming lines.

This process converts disconnected text into a single continuous path suitable for cutting.

Visualizing Layered Projects in LightBurn

When working with layered projects, visualization is key to understanding how the final product will look.

  • Change layer colors to represent the final colors of the materials.
  • Use Fill mode instead of Line mode to see solid shapes.
  • Switch between Wireframe, Coarse, and Smooth views via the Window > View Style menu or shortcut Alt + Shift + W.

Example Project from Cuddle

  • Download customizable SVG projects from websites like CuttleXYZ.
  • Insert your name or text and download the SVG.
  • Import into LightBurn and assign colors to layers to match the intended final look.
  • Use the snipping tool or screenshot to save a visual reference for assembly.

Tips for Assembly

  • Some layers may be slightly larger or smaller to help with alignment.
  • Use score lines as guides for gluing and positioning parts.
  • Adjust layer sizes to either hide score lines or add definition.

Additional Resources

Conclusion

Manipulating text in LightBurn to cut out in one piece is straightforward using offset or welding techniques combined with score lines for definition. Visualizing your project with colored layers and fill modes helps ensure your final product looks as intended. With these tips, you can create beautiful, connected text designs for your laser cutting projects.

Feel free to experiment with these methods and share your results or questions in the comments.

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