Originally Posted by LaserNOT  Ummmm as usual, way over my head. I'm using raw newlydraw and checking the box "reverse" to get the engraving, heat level determines depth...again the only choice I seem to have is the "sizing" box that is used by the engraving menu. This particular setup gives me a "deep rectangular box" with the image "raised" surface level after engraving.
Now I think you said to use my external program to edit/play with the bmp file. I've already made the image a vector (assuming I HAD to...) file.
Didn't know you could thin like that...NOW it may start to get affordable for a change. Am doing mostly stainless, just tested with the other stuff mostly. What kind of heat setting should I be using? I've found that I need about 7 turns for a pretty good tatoo mostly |
Oh ok, well if you're using a vector it's a slightly different process. Just create it in reverse, you won't need to select the 'reversed' checkbox but the result will be the same except you have control over the outer shape. It isn't possible to feather it this way though, but it doesn't sounds like that's the look you want anyway.
You certainly don't have to use a vector, in fact if you want grey scale shading and pseudo variable depth the only method on your system is using a raster file but of course the setup may be more work.
Regarding the Cermark. It depends on the quality of stainless, the better quality actually seems to take the process easier. I use between 6 and 9 turns, but my tube is losing power - on it's way out. I should have mentioned, I use the LMM6000 which is alcohol based (and typically mix it 1:6). I haven't had such good luck with the LMM14 product. I use a small airbrush setup and the water based product seemed to separate and clog the nozzle resulting in a non-uniform coating - which is essential for good results. The thinner coating seems to laser easier and produces the best results.
Zax.
(someone posted here a while ago the instructions to make your own, I never tried it but would be interested in the results)