What is Adobe Illustrator?
Adobe Illustrator is a computer program used to draw and edit 2D files that can be used for a variety of purposes. In this class, we used Illustrator to draw files that would be used on the laser and vinyl cutter. We learned the difference between cutting and engraving, how to cut out a logo and how to create a 3D object from a 2D drawing.
Using Illustrator and the Laser
When using the Illustrator with the laser, it is important to keep in mind the different cuts. A red line at .0001 inches will cut all the way through a material, a blue line at .0001 inches will engrave a line and black will fill in. Above are the notebook covers I designed.
Using Illustrator and the Vinyl Cutter
Using the vinyl cutter with Illustrator is similar to with the laser. We were tasked with designing a three color decal, with each color being a separate layer of vinyl. Everything sits on the purple layer, with white coming next and finally the 'W' in black after that.
Conclusion
By the end of this unit, I learned a lot about how illustrator works together with the vinyl and laser cutters. Prior to this I knew little about how the Illustrator program worked and I feel like at the end of this unit I have a better grasp on this. It was definitely a challenge going from Photoshop to Illustrator, because Illustrator is so much more technical in the way that it draws and deals with pictures.