How to prepare a laser cutting file

In DIYCutLab

1. Set Fabrication → Process to Laser cutting (or Laser engraving for engrave-only work).
2. Choose the material and enter the Measured thickness.
3. Set your Machine or Bed width / height so parts are checked against your bed.
4. Optionally switch on Kerf comp. with your measured kerf.
5. Fix everything in Check & output, then Generate files.

You get layered SVG and DXF files per sheet, a 1:1 PDF, project instructions, a cutting checklist and, for assembled projects, an assembly guide.

In your laser software

1. Import cut_files/sheet-01.svg (or the DXF). Do not scale on import.
2. Check the size: pick one part from the part list in the instructions and measure it in the software.
3. Map layers to operations. Each operation has its own colour: red cut outer, orange cut inner, blue score, black engrave. Where your software shows layer or group names, use those — names are authoritative, colours are hints.
4. Order: engrave and score first, then inner cuts, then outer cuts last so parts do not shift.
5. Confirm the material is safe for your laser and set power and speed from your own material tests.

Test before the full job

Cut one small part or one joint corner, check the fit and the size, then run the sheet.