The Art of Prototyping
What are Prototypes?
Ever heard of ‘try before you buy?’
Prototypes are the first versions of a product, used to help identify flaws and design errors. When you’re thinking of new and complex laser designs, it can be difficult to perfect your pieces in one go. We find it’s always best to create some sample versions first to see how your designs will turn out before cutting and creating bulk acrylic products. Prototypes will help you finalise all of those nitty gritty details before you transfer them onto beautiful, coloured materials!
Here are some simple steps on how to quickly put a prototype together!
Step 1: Find the Perfect Colour!
Colour selection and finding swatches are an essential part of the design and prototyping process. They help demonstrate the look and colour of your pieces. Having reference swatches in real life allows for a better visual and proof of design later on as opposed to online swatches.
Step 2: Print to Scale!
After carefully selecting a design and colour, you will first need to print out the design onto paper to the desired size. Seeing the design this way allows you to fully visualise and proof it if needed. Is there too much detail? Too little? Will it be able to be engraved properly? Is it too big?
Step 3: Set-Up File!
Because prototypes are subject to change, don’t be scared to experiment! You can try different sizes different engraving thickness, with hanging holes in the middle or too the side, etc! The more variations you have in front of you, the easier it will be to choose and edit your file.
Step 4: Choose your Material!
If you’re satisfied with your paper prototype and are happy with your file – it’s time to start on the real deal. It is recommended for beginners to use white solid, black solid, or clear/ translucent materials for prototyping and to try and pick the one closest to your end design colour. For example, if your end design is light, chose white or clear and vice versa for dark/ black. It is essential to make sure you’re testing in the right thickness, we recommend 3mm for beginners just starting.
Step 5: Let’s Get Cutting!
Once the above is decided, it is time to laser cut your prototypes! This will be done by either your own machine or with your private supplier.
Step 6: Test your Pieces
Now comes the fun and most important part!
It’s time to test the protypes! With your physical product, you’ll be able to experiment in a number of ways such as paint fill, chain linking, etc. You will even be able to test the wearability and durability of your pieces! How many outfits can you match them with? Will they work best as earrings or a simple brooch? Are my edges too sharp?
Don’t forget to test them out of friends and family for some honest feedback!
Make sure to tag us on Instagram with your beautiful prototypes @lazerdesignschool or join our Facebook group Lazer Cut Club to connect and share with fellow makers!