engraving off center

[sal shepherd]

Could someone check this file on there laser. If I don't have text off center it won't engrave in center. I am engraving on 3"x2" crystal blocks.

[Chuck Stone]

Not sure I understand .. the file isn't 3x2. are you saying that your
laser's x and y positions need adjustment?

[sal shepherd]

I set my laser to the size of the piece to be engraved. 3 X 2 are generic numbers for my file. My laser is set to the size of the file.

[Martin Boekers]

I'm confused also, why set your document to a smaller size than the final?

What I recommend is setting a vector outline the size of the perimeter
of the piece, laser that, then position the text centered to that.

Then all you have to do is put the piece over the outline and laser.

It's hard to say what your issue is from the file alone.


Marty

[sal shepherd]

Martin, I set the laser to the piece size 1.875 X 3.125 . The piece is butted to the rulers and engraved. If I center the text with "P" it moves the text over about 1/8"
to the left. Which is centered in doucment but engraves to the right of center

[Tony Lenkic]

Sal,

Duplicate the text than convert duplicate to curves. Align that to page you set and you will see there is a bit of offset. I think this is due to TT font character box that may be bit larger on left than right side of your alignment "P".

[Martin Boekers]

Now I see what you are doing this is how I work with it.

First I use a standard page (sheet) size, letter (8.5x11)

Then I make a box the size of the perimeter of the piece I am engraving.

Then layout text and/or graphics and center to that box.

Group the layout box and contents.

Move that box and contents to the top left edge of the layout.

Now with the transform "position" docker you can offset it to the guides
you use.

This way you can easily see if you have a problem or not with the file.


Hope this is what you are looking for.

I think Gravograph sells a variety of jigs for this purpose.


Marty

[sal shepherd]

Thanks Tony, I see what you are talking about
Thanks Martin, that sounds like a plan.

[Garrett Nors]

My default work area size is 24x18, my laser's table size :)