LightBurn and laser software
Laser software (LightBurn, xTool Creative Space, RDWorks) reads DXF and maps layers to cut, engrave and score operations. Its menus change between versions, so the steps below stop at the DXF.
| You want | Use case |
|---|---|
| Tight-fitting parts | Kerf offset and R12 |
| Cut and engrave in one file | Layers by fill color |
| Engraving lines rather than filled shapes | Line art and strokes |
| Stacked-sheet models | Sections at material-thickness steps |
| Foam inserts and shadow boards | Silhouette plus clearance |
| Labels and signs | Text to DXF |
| Stamps and back-side engraving | Mirrored art, mirrored text |
Tips
- Save a profile per material and machine.
- Older software that rejects the DXF usually wants DXF version › R12
(
--dxf-version r12), or Curves › Polylines (--curves polyline). - Laser software fills closed outlines when engraving; open paths are cut or scored as lines.