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Kumpulan Berita Tentang Judi Online Terkini yang bisa anda nikmati setiap hari.

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Shawn Campbell on Flickr
Computational thinking projects help you to solve problems in ways used to create software, as well as problems in real life.

Can you solve problems? Computational thinking is simply one way to solve problems. While programmers use these skills to write software programs, in reality the same skills can be used in many school subjects, as well outside a classroom.

Computational thinking also is one way everyone, even people who hate programming, can learn to become educated consumers of technology. While some of these projects involve coding, the process of computational thinking does not involve code. It involves engaging problems and working towards solutions. You learn how technology is created at its most fundamental level.

This article presents a small set of projects you can find online at Google. While geared towards teachers, anyone of any age with some time and a little patience can work through these exercises and learn computational thinking.

What is Computational Thinking?

Computational thinking matters because computer science and programming rely heavily on problem solving. Thinking like a computer, using computer science concepts that make computers possible, is one way to become an effective programmer and computer scientist.

There are several variations of computational thinking. However, this method involves at least these steps:

Break down the problem. Have you ever tasted garlic? Once you taste it, you probably will recognize garlic flavor in food. Breaking down a problem operates in a similar way: identify the obvious parts of the problem then break those parts down into smaller and smaller bits. In math, for example, 6 can be broken down into 3+3, 5+1, 3*2, 7-1, 12/2 and other combinations of numbers and operations.

Find and identify any patterns in the problem. Once you have your problem broken down into many parts, try to sort parts into logical groups based on the nature of the problem. If you want to understand how a bird flies, for example, how the wings work is one logical group, how the head moves is another group, and how the tail of the bird works is another group.

Filter and prioritize information about the problem. When you break down any problem into its parts, you realize some parts are more important than others. If you focus on the important parts of the problem, and understand how all the parts of a problem fit together, then you can take the next step.

Design possible solutions. The design of possible solutions includes trying out different solutions to identify the strengths and weaknesses of any solution. While you might stumble on the perfect comprehensive solution, chances are designing solutions will be a repetitive process where you try out your ideas to see what works and what fails.

Can you see how this method also works well with any subject? The difference is simply using computer science. Hopefully you also see how this four step approach to solving problems is similar to the scientific method: observe, hypothesize, experiment, and form conclusions. Both are structured ways to think about then solve problems.

With this simple understanding in mind, here are a few projects you can work through to learn computational thinking. There are more projects at the bottom of this article, along with links to learn more.

Describe an Everyday Object

This first project appears to be way too easy. But it's hard. There's also no math or science or programming involved.

Think of an object. Let's say you imagine a bicycle. Now describe a bicycle to someone without using the words bicycle or bike. To make it more difficult, think about the four elements of computational thinking:

Break down the problem: what is the reason bicycles exist? How do they function? What are all the parts you find in a bicycle? Are any of those parts not needed? Are parts missing? For example, could you have a four wheel bicycle? What materials are bicycles made of? What senses do bicycles use, for example, would you ever taste a bicycle, what sounds do they make, how do they feel to your hands?

Find and identify any patterns in the problem. Take a piece of paper and write down all the parts of a bicycle based on breaking down the problem of how to describe a bicycle without using the words bicycle or bike. Can you group parts of a bicycle together? For example, would you group the handlebars with the pedals and gears? Or would you group the pedals and gears with the wheels? Or with the wheels and the bicycle frame?

Filter and prioritize information about the problem. When you describe a bicycle to someone without using the words bicycle or bike, what are the most important details to tell the person? What are the least important details?

Design possible solutions. Given all the information you have collected and organized, what are some ways to describe a bicycle? What is the simplest fastest way to describe a bicycle without using the words bicycle or bike? If you want to draw out your description, what is the most mysterious way you could describe a bicycle?

Once you work through this process with a simple object, try a more complex object such as a house. Or a computer. Or an oven. Imagine you have invented the object and you need to tell someone not only about the object but also what the object can do, the problem(s) your object solves, what your object cannot do, and other details.

And as you work through these four steps, especially as you group and prioritize the parts of your problem/object, try different ways to sort information. You might use a simple list. Or you might use a table with columns for the name of each part, its priority, what group the part belongs to, and a description of the part. You might even open up a spreadsheet and convert your table into a simple spreadsheet to sort by priority or the groups parts belong to.

If you do this project in a group, take about 30 minutes to select an object and work through the computational thinking process, then finally describe the object to others. Finish up with maybe 15 minutes of reflection time as a group to discuss what worked and what did not work, as well as ideas to do a better job describing objects this way.

Another way to think about this project is to look at the problem: describe an object without using a common word for the object. If you choose to describe a bicycle, notice the problem doesn't specify which kind of bicycle. We could choose a tricycle, a bicycle, or some other form of bike. There are motorized bikes and pedal bikes. We also could choose to describe a bicycle built for small children, older kids, or adults. The problem statement, in other words, is too broad and needs to be defined as you solve the problem of describing an object without using a common word for the object.

Finally, if you think this is too simple a project, look up patents online for common objects. You'll discover all patent applications have to describe objects in ways that are both simple and unique. For example, search for the object house and you will find patents for portable houses, tropical houses, landlocked floating houses, doll houses, poultry houses, annular houses, and more.

Multiplying by Numbers Between 0 and 1

In this project, you will need a calculator to come up with your answers. For each calculation on the left, determine the product or result in the center column, and write down whether the product is less than or greater than 100:

Calculation

Product

less than 100 or greater?

100*0.5

50

less

100*0.2

100*0.85

100*0.13

From your results, would you say there is a pattern that 100 multiplied by a number between 0 and 1 will always give you a number less than 100? What happens if you multiply 100 by the largest three digit number between 0 and 1? What happens if you multiply 100 by the smallest three digit number between 0 and 1?

You can generalize and say 100 multiplied by any number between 0 and 1 will yield a number greater than 0 but less than 100. This is an example of a pattern in computational thinking. From a set of calculations, starting with a diverse random set of possible numbers between 0 and 1 to the highest possible number and lowest possible number, we can state the product will be between 0 and 100.

More Computational Thinking Projects

The Google site has a number of other computational thinking projects to work through. While many can use Python, there are links and examples to help you work through the exercises. And there are a few more English Language projects like the first one.

Learn More

What is Computational Thinking?
http://www.google.com/edu/computational-thinking/what-is-ct.html
Exploring Computational Thinking (Google)

http://www.google.com/edu/computational-thinking/lessons.html

Describe an Everyday Object
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1aiIXl6M9t9Gq0rtOtcKknxqT4mU9b6q7UbYP-3xlKqk/edit
Search US Patents Online

http://www.uspto.gov/patents/process/search/
https://www.google.com/?tbm=pts
https://www.google.com/?tbm=pts#q=house&safe=off&tbm=pts

Multiplying by Numbers Between 0 and 1
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fVkEDKc28Z3yTvaHwQsMGt5gV1YxTwscJfEr8p4lG28/edit?hl=en
Scientific Method
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientific_method

About the Author

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Shawn Campbell on Flickr Computational thinking projects help you to solve problems in ways used to create software, as well as problems in real life. Can you solve problems? Computational thinking is simply one way to solve problems. While programmers use these skills to write software programs, in reality the same skills can be used in many school subjects, as well outside a classroom.

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Cool and easy electrical experiments and projects.

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Cool and easy electrical experiments and projects.

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Electricity is all around us, so we tend to take it for granted. It's a fascinating subject for kids, though, so they'll love these electricity experiments and activities. You may need to invest in a few simple supplies for some of these activities, but you'll be able to reuse them year after year. The hands-on experience kids get makes the extra effort worthwhile.
Just a heads up, WeAreTeachers may collect a share of sales from the links on this page. Thank you for your support!
1. Start with an anchor chart

Static electricity is most kids' intro to this concept, and it leads nicely into electrical energy and circuitry. These colorful anchor charts help you teach both.

Learn more: What I Have Learned Teaching/ Miller's Science Space

2. Bend water with static electricity

Most static electricity experiments are quick and easy enough for anyone to try at home. This is a great example: charge a comb by rubbing it against your head, then use it to "bend" a stream of water from a faucet.

Learn more: Frugal Fun 4 Boys and Girls

3. Separate salt and pepper with a "magic" spoon

This static electricity experiment works because pepper is lighter than salt, which makes it quicker to jump to the electrically charged plastic spoon. So cool!

Learn more: Science Kiddo

4. Move a bubble using a balloon

Balloons are a fun way to teach about static electricity. Combine them with bubbles for a hands-on activity students will really love!

Learn more: Create Play Travel

5. Flap a butterfly's wings

Speaking of balloons, try using them to help a butterfly flap its tissue paper wings. Little ones' faces light up when they see the butterfly come to life.

Learn more: I Heart Crafty Things

6. Make jumping goo with static electricity

Kick your static electricity experiments up a notch by mixing a batch of cornstarch "goo," then making it "jump" towards a balloon. Amazing!

Learn more: Frugal Fun for Boys and Girls

7. Assemble circuits from play dough

When you're ready to explore electrical energy, start with play dough circuits. You'll need a battery box and mini LED bulbs, both of which are inexpensive and available on Amazon. Mix up your own batches of insulating and conducting play dough using the info at the link.

Learn more: Science Sparks

8. Construct a classic potato clock

Try a variety of fruits and vegetables (lemons are another popular choice) for these classic electricity experiments. Here's the clock kit you'll need.

9. Find out if water conducts electricity

We're always telling kids to get out of the water at the first sign of a lightning storm, so use this demo to help them understand why. You'll need alligator clip wires, mini LED bulbs, and button cell batteries.

Learn more: Rookie Parenting

10. Build a battery from pennies

Light up a bulb without plugging something in or using a battery! Use alligator clip wires, mini LED bulbs, pennies, and aluminum foil to generate electricity instead.

Learn more: 123Homeschool4Me

11. Whip up wizard wands

Lumos! If your kids are fascinated by Harry Potter and the world of magic, they'll love this electricity project that turns ordinary sticks into light-up wands! Learn how it's done at the link.

Learn more: Babble Dabble Do

12. Play a DIY steady hand game

Electricity experiments like this one are perfect for exploring the idea of open and closed circuits. Plus, kids will have so much fun playing with them!

Learn more: Left Brain Craft Brain

13. Copper plate coins using electricity

We all know electricity lights up a room, and powers phones, computers, and even cars. But what else can it do? This electroplating experiment is a real jaw-dropper.

Learn more: KiwiCo Corner

14. Create an index card flashlight

This DIY flashlight really turns on and off! It only takes index cards, aluminum foil, mini LED bulbs, and button cell batteries.

Learn more: Mystery Science

15. Twirl some homopolar dancers

These sweet little twirling dancers are a fantastic demonstration of a homopolar motor. In addition to basic AA batteries, you'll need neodymium magnets and copper wire.

Learn more: Babble Dabble Do

16. Engineer an electromagnet

Turn an ordinary nail into a magnet with battery and wire. That's the magic of electromagnets!

Learn more: Steve Spangler Science
Love these electricity experiments and activities? Check out 50 Easy Science Experiments You Can Do With Stuff You Already Have. Plus, Turn Muggles Into Wizards With Harry Potter Science Experiments.

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16 Shockingly Fun Electricity Experiments and Activities for Kids

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Electricity is all around us, so we tend to take it for granted. It's a fascinating subject for kids, though, so they'll love these electricity experiments and activities. You may need to invest in a few simple supplies for some of these activities, but you'll be able to reuse them year after year.

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Are you an educator and want to incorporate School Projects with origami and paper arts into your program? Perhaps you are a parent and want to introduce your child to the joy of paper arts. Either way, this is the place for you. I have volunteered in elementary schools for many years and have discovered what works and what doesn't. Below is a list of origami and paper projects which I teach to first graders through 3rd graders.

I usually start a paper arts program in October. This gives the students time to familiarize themselves with their new teacher and the rules of the room. By October, they are ready for some extra fun - with me!

1 Paper Airplane
2 Pop-Up Card
3 Magic Wand
4 Halloween Bat
( details here)

October projects

I always start my first origami project with a paper airplane. Kids love this action model and it gives them so much joy to fold and fly their airplanes. This model is sure to make them see me as their friend - as someone who can help them - as someone to listen to - as someone to look forward to ever week - and as someone who can guide them in an adventure in paper folding.
Halloween crafts play a major role in the latter half of the month.

1 Toothpick Amer Flag
2 Kirigami Star
3 Pencil Toppers
4 Origami Turkey
( details here)

November projects

November proves to be an interesting month for volunteer work. On one hand, I have a lot of options because November has Veteran's Day and Thanksgiving. But I am also limited since there is no school on both holidays. As well, teachers often have a very busy November schedule since they may host in-class Thanksgiving dinners or plays. Students tend to be quite unruly in November, possibly because of the high holiday content (Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and Christmas).

1 Tree Pop Up Card
2 Candy Cane
3 Christmas Tree
4 Kirigami Star of David
( details here)
December projects

Year after year, December remains the most exciting month of the entire year. The Christmas buzz starts right away and continues until winter break. In between, you have Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. There are many, many Christmas themed origami projects and only a handful of Jewish origami/kirigami crafts. Pick and choose your school projects based on how much time you have and the demographics of the students.

1 Kirigami Snowflake
2 Kirigami Decoration
3 Paper Chain of Dolls
4 Chinese Paper Lantern
( details here)
January projects

January is often a quiet month. Children have spent their energies over the winter break and the cool weather dampens their spirit. I fill January with paper-cutting projects which seem easier than paper-folding projects. I choose easy-to-accomplish school projects that will warm their hearts and boost their self esteem.

January, a winter month, is a good time to cut paper snowflakes. In observance of Martin Luther King: try cutting a chain of dolls all holding hands. And don't forget Chinese New Year: a perfect time to teach the classic Chinese Paper Lantern.

1 Valentine Pop-Up Card
2 Origami Heart
3 Weaved Heart Basket
4 Paper Chain Hearts
( details here)
February projects

Friendship and love surpasses all borders and the heart is commonly used to express these feelings. In honor of Valentines Day, February is devoted to hearts. We have folded hearts, weaved hearts, cut out hearts, and heart cards.

Even though Valentines Day is officially over on the 14th, I teach Valentine themed arts and crafts all month long. Hey - why not? We can all do with a little extra ♥ .

1. Pot of Gold Pop-Up
2. 3D Stand Up Clover
3. Box of Gold
4. Cootie Catcher
( details here)

March Projects
Interestingly, most origami projects which involve clovers, shamrocks, or leprechauns are rather complex. Nevertheless, there are a few interesting paper crafts suited for St Patrick's Day: a pop-up card, a stand-up shamrock, and an easy origami box. If you decorate the origami boxes with green clovers, it can be used to hold St Patrick's Day chocolate coins. alternatively, use pastel colors and make it into an Easter-themed box.

The last week of March is used to make an April Fools origami project: the classic cootie catcher. Do you know why it is called a cootie catcher? Find out here.

1 Origami Rabbit
2 Origami Rabbit Head
3 Tie-Dye Napkins
4 Origami Flower
( details here)
April School Projects

April is filled with Easter fun. I teach the students how to make an origami bunny rabbit and an origami rabbit head. The bunny rabbit is quite popular and parents complain to me that their house is quickly filled with little bunnies everywhere.

If you decorate eggs, save that left over dye! Students can make fabulous tie dye napkins.

April showers bring May flowers. I also introduce a few origami flowers. These take us into May where we can present our paper flowers to our Mothers.

1 Simple Flower
2 Mother and Child Swan
3 Origami Butterfly
4 Whirligig & Kite ( details here)
May School Projects

May paper projects is a celebration of spring and early summer: flowers, butterflies; fun things such as whirligigs and kites; and a special Mother-and-Child Swan. Fun, fun, fun! Check it out!

1. Origami Tie
2. Origami shirt
3. Origami Sunglasses
( details here)
June School Projects

June is dedicated to Fathers. What better way to celebrate Father's Day than to give Daddy gifts from the heart, made by the hand! On the menu for this last month of the school year is an origami tie and an origami sunglasses to enhance Daddy's wardrobe. Let's give Dad a new paper car which he can drive to get to his new paper boat! While fishing, why not let him catch a few weaved paper fish. It's a project devoted to dads.

Finally, the school year is approaching. If you have followed these origami and paper arts project, you must have noticed that your children and students are becoming more and more proficient in their work. Not surprising: origami has been known to have many educational and health benefits.

Although these projects have been designed for grades 1 and 2 children, you can easily expand the curriculum to include older children. There are many books which use origami to teach geometry and other mathematical concepts. See them here.

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Are you an educator and want to incorporate School Projects with origami and paper arts into your program? Perhaps you are a parent and want to introduce your child to the joy of paper arts. Either way, this is the place for you.

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Engineering Challenges for 9 -12 year olds.

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Engineering Challenges for 9 -12 year olds.

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By Amy Cowen on November 4, 2022 4:00 PM
Inspire students of all ages to enjoy STEM when you let them loose in a creative makerspace! These hands-on engineering activities use simple materials and encourage students to brainstorm, problem solve, and innovate.
Enabling Exploration

Community makerspaces are collaborative spaces where people of all ages can get hands-on with science and engineering. With an array of materials available, a visit to a local makerspace is an invitation to play with science and engineering and really see how things work.

You may have a makerspace in your school or at the library, or maybe you have an area of your classroom dedicated to maker activities students can explore or certain days of the week on which you turn the room into a makerspace. With a few materials and a surface to work on, garage or basement spaces can easily be recast as home makerspaces, too!

You don't have to have expensive materials to start up your own makerspace. With an assortment of craft supplies, electronics parts, and recycled materials, you can set up a makerspace full of inspiring STEM that kids can explore. Figuring out what will work with the materials available is part of the challenge and part of the fun!

Bookmark or pin these projects to add to your makerspace!

Update! This post has been updated for 2022!

Free Projects and Activities for Your Makerspace

Try one of these STEM projects for creative hands-on science and engineering with a DIY "maker" flair:

1. Make Cardboard Automata: Plan and build an automaton from cardboard and craft materials.

2. Build a Wind-Powered Car: Add a sail to a DIY toy car and experiment to see how changes to the sail make a difference in the car's stability and speed.

3. Build a Differential from K'Nex®: Use the K'Nex® toy building system to build a model differential.

4. Build A Wall Marble Run: Use cardboard tubes and other simple materials to build a wall marble run.

5. Make an Awesome Paper Lantern: Design and make a paper lantern that holds a battery-operated tealight candle or uses a night light circuit.

6. Flippy, the Dancing Robot: Build a simple dancing robot and use the engineering design process to improve it.

7. Build a Paper Roller Coaster: Build a paper roller coaster and try to add a loop.

8. 3D Print with Sand: No 3D Printer Required!: Use sand and glue to simulate one type of 3D printing.

9. DIY Mini Propeller Car: Make a small toy car with a simple circuit and a propeller.

10. Build a Robot Hand: Use craft materials to design and build a robotic hand.

11. Build a Mini Trebuchet: Use craft sticks, rubber bands, and other craft materials to make and explore the physics behind a miniature trebuchet.

12. DIY Light Up Unicorn Headband: Make a unicorn horn headband with a paper circuit that lights an LED at the tip.

13. Build a Rubber Band-Powered Car: Build a car with an axle made from straws and rubber bands that store potential energy when wound.

14. Build a Popsicle Stick Catapult: Make a small catapult from craft sticks and rubber bands.

15. Duplicate Your Drawings with a Machine: Make and experiment with a pantograph, a device that can be used to make a larger or smaller copy of a drawing.

16. Make a Paper Circuit: Learn how to make simple circuits from paper, copper tape (or aluminum foil), and a battery. (See Paper Circuits Science Projects for additional ways to explore.)

17. Make a Cotton Ball Launcher: Use a recycled cardboard tube to make a launcher that can launch lightweight materials.

18. The Impossible Arrow Illusion: 3D print and explore the "impossible arrow" illusion - the arrow's reflection in a mirror always points the other way!

19. Make Your Own Harmonica!: Explore how a harmonica creates sound waves by making a small one from wooden sticks, rubber bands, and a straw.

20. DIY Mini Drone: Make a basic mini drone. (Add additional parts to explore a series of questions related to drone flight.)

21. Build a Balloon Car: Use a balloon to power a homemade toy car.

22. Study Kinetic Energy with a Rube Goldberg Machine: Use assorted materials to create a set of chain reactions in a machine designed to perform a simple task.

23. Build a Cardboard Scissor Lift: Use craft materials to make a scissor lift and explore simple machines.

24. Junkbots: Robots from Recycled Materials: Design and build simple robots made from recycled and craft materials.

25. Build a Paper Speaker: Make a working speaker from paper and neodymium magnets.

26. Make a Night-Light: Build a working night-light with an intermediate circuit project and design the custom housing, too!

Makerspace Learning in Action

The following STEM videos demonstrate some of the highlighted activities:

Ready for More Makerspace Ideas?

See 16 Next-Level Makerspace STEM Projects for projects and activities to help scale your makerspace for students ready for additional challenge.

You Might Also Enjoy These Related Posts:

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26 Projects to Jump-start Your Makerspace | Science Buddies Blog

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26 engaging hands-on STEM activities that use recylced and craft materials for a home, library, or classroom makerspace

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Before I go any further, let me say that we realize just how fortunate we are. We have resources that many schools can only dream about (but with a great crowdfunding initiative, that needn't be the case). Northfield is a small town of just under 9,000 people, and a single-building K-8 district. Our per-pupil costs ($16,292 in 2014) are consistently less than New Jersey's state average ($18,891 in 2014). We have extremely supportive community organizations that fundraise tirelessly for us. We, in turn, work hard to wisely design innovative educational experiences for our kids.

The Lure of Bright, Shiny Objects

Makerspaces are too often defined by things -- hardware, software, other technologies -- which can engender a shopping-list mentality among people interested in creating such a learning environment. A true makerspace is defined not by what's in it but rather by what comes out of it: projects, experiences, artifacts, and learning. The tools are just a means to an end. With that proviso, here are the 20 most important tools being used in our space right now.

1. Writeable Desk Surfaces

We want students to collaborate effortlessly, express themselves freely, and do so in ways not possible in other classrooms. We painted several walls in our space with clear dry-erase paint, but more importantly, we painted the work tables with it, too. This is by far the most powerful and popular feature in our Digital Shop. Kids love the freedom that comes with writing on the tables with dry-erase markers. It's fun, fast, easy to clean up, inexpensive, and a winner! We also have this fantastic paint on two wall spaces. Check out this hyperlapse video shot by a student!

2. Hot Glue Guns

Yes, that crafting essential has found its way into our space, and it's probably the second-most popular tool so far. Why? Hot glue does amazing things. It binds dissimilar materials with ease and strength, allowing students to quickly create amazingly detailed prototypes. Cleanup is a snap, and the glue is easily removed, making most parts easily recyclable for other projects. The guns are inexpensive and allow us to talk about and practice tool safety.

3. Chromebooks & Google Apps for Education

4. PCs & PC-Based Software

Sometimes, we need software that doesn't run on Chromebooks. When Mrs. Stephanie Terista, our seventh-grade ELA teacher, brought her students in to create 3D dioramas for the book Bud, Not Buddy, she had them use our Dell laptops and the free Sketchup Make program. We have 12 PC laptops for students to use and share.

5. Quadrille-Ruled Pads/Journals

Students learn sketching skills in my program, because sketches help them understand how things work and fit together. With sketches, they brainstorm ideas and document their work. We started the school year with quadrille-ruled pads but have since purchased and given every student quadrille-ruled composition books, which they'll use as design journals for the entire school year.

6. littleBits™ Modules

We were very fortunate that our PTO funded a littleBits Pro Library, a massive collection of sophisticated, LEGO-like electronic blocks that snap together, allowing creative minds to bring ideas to life. When combined with found materials like cardboard, the only limit is the kids' imagination.

7. 3D Design Tools

Before talking about our 3D printers, I want to emphasize that 3D design is the crucial part -- 3D printers don't make kids into engineers any more than laser printers makes them into writers. It's not about the tool, it's about what you do with it. We love Tinkercad. It's free, fabulous, and easy to use. We also love the lessons in Autodesk's Project Ignite, which is based on Tinkercad and is also free.

8. 3D Printers

9. Ready, Set, Design

Ready, Set, Design is a fabulous 45-minute activity that teaches students what it's like to do authentic design via rapid prototyping. It's free, fun, and suitable for learners of all ages.

10. The Extraordinaires™ Design Studio

This imaginative, inexpensive kit is a massive collection of colorful character cards, design challenges, and other resources providing a fantastic introduction to design thinking. Kids are challenged to create solutions that solve problems for these characters using traditional crafting supplies. Their detailed prototypes are whimsical, imaginative, and just plain fun.

11. Dollar Store Items

12. Free Visual Programming Tools

Students love Scratch and Tickle, which they use for a variety of purposes, from creating book-based video games with Raspberry Pi to commanding our drone armies.

13. Robots/Drones

We have a Parrot Rolling Spider, a Sphero, an Ollie, and two sets of Dash and Dot Wonder Robots. To be honest, we haven't done much formal learning with them because it's still early in the school year. However, that doesn't stop kids from constantly picking them up and playing with them. Our intent is challenging the kids to program them instead of just flying or driving them. We'll be reinforcing that need for algorithmic skills and knowledge soon.

14. Raspberry Pi

As mentioned above, we're working on using Raspberry Pi to create book-based video games. Despite our best efforts, though, the Pi cannot run Scratch 2.0, so our programs need to be written in Scratch 1.4. That said, we do love this Raspberry Pi Starter Kit.

15. iPads

We only have two Airs (three, counting my personal iPad) but they've been invaluable for multimedia content creation with iMovie, photography, and green-screening (we prefer the Touchast app).

16. Shop Aprons & Goggles

17. LEGOs

I wanted LEGOs for my classroom but was apprehensive about making such a costly purchase. Instead, I asked for donations and scored big time. One family donated 30 pounds of LEGOs, which we use in projects and also when we have extra time for a five-minute LEGO design challenge.

18. Hand Tools

19. Slatwall

While our versatile walls aren't a tool per se, they're important to the function and style of the makerspace. Slatwall panels add much-needed storage capability and look fantastic.

20. Vinyl Lettering

Inspired by the PBS documentary If You Build It, I wanted our program "mantra" proudly displayed on our wall in giant, colorful lettering. Application was a snap (thanks to dedicated parent volunteer Mrs. Monica Keenan). The letters form the basis of the "threshold experience" as the first thing people see when entering the room.

So there you have it, Digital Shop's Top 20 tools and resources. There are others that we didn't include only because we haven't had time to use them yet. Next month, we'll focus on a more detailed review of what's going well in our middle school makerspace -- and what could improve -- as we head into winter recess. Thanks for reading!

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Middle School Maker Journey: Top 20 Technologies and Tools

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Before I go any further, let me say that we realize just how fortunate we are. We have resources that many schools can only dream about (but with a great crowdfunding initiative, that needn't be the case). Northfield is a small town of just under 9,000 people, and a single-building K-8 district.

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Spark Your Creativity And Up Your Design Game With This List Of Laser Cut Ideas

Whether you're new to making and looking for a place to start or you're a seasoned maker who wants to expand in new directions or get a fresh take on your current path, do we have some laser cutter projects inspiration for you.

There's so much opportunity for making amazing laser cut products (and profiting from them, too!). But where to start?

To spark your creativity, we've scoured the best Etsy shops, Instagram feeds, Pinterest boards and blog posts from all over the web to find the coolest custom laser cut design ideas from top designers. It took some doing, but we narrowed the list down to 105 of our faves. Whew!

With so many ideas, we wanted to make this post easy to navigate and refer back to. So we divided the story into two sections.

The first section contains 55 laser cutter projects organized into popular product categories. If you're a maker with an affinity for a particular product, this section is just for you.

The second half of the story features 50 laser cutting ideas divided into 10 groups based on top-selling materials. So if you love a certain material and want to expand what you're making, scroll down and get inspired.

You may notice many geometric designs made the list. Well, we do love some geometry! But here's a truth bomb when it comes to laser cut products: Laser cutters love geometry, too.

Straight lines are less complicated to cut than curved ones, so it's faster to make this design style. And when we're talking laser cutting, time is money. So faster cutting designs are less expensive-an important consideration if you are selling your laser cut products. Geometric designs are also a lot easier to nest (share cutting lines), another cost savings tip. #winning!

So are you ready to get inspired? Let's do this.

55 Laser Cutter Projects By Product Category

Do you make jewelry, electronics cases, wedding decorations, bookmarks or signs? Then take a look at these laser cut ideas and get inspired to create your own designs.

Laser Cut Jewelry

What's one of the top laser cutter projects made by Ponoko? If you guessed jewelry, you're right. From earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings, there are so many great design ideas that it was hard to pick just a handful!

Since many makers specialize in making with certain materials, we have grouped the design ideas into subsections by materials to make your browsing experience easy. So you'll see all the wood jewelry, acrylic jewelry and so forth together.

1. Wooden Jewelry Components

Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Lucca Laser Workshop creates wood and paper gifts, home decor and custom-designed merchandise using all natural materials. Above is an inside look at some initial product sketches along with the final products.

2. Geometric Earrings

Etsy seller MoodWoodShop uses birch to create striking laser cut designs, such as these diamond chevron earrings.

3. Chevron Necklace

Chevrons are also a popular motif with Etsy shop CompanyKind. In fact, this salvaged wood ombre chevron necklace is the shop's signature piece. CompanyKind's founder and her husband own a cabinetry shop in the Santa Cruz mountains of California, and the work always results in an abundance of overshoots and cut-offs. She wanted to find a way to use every piece of wood possible, so the jewelry making began.

4. Wooden Diamond Statement Necklace

Diamonds are a girl's best friend, right? For days when you want to make a statement but the real bling is a bit much, this large wooden statement necklace from Etsy seller alysonprete has all the class without the hefty price tag.

5. Wing Earrings

Etsy seller Vectorcloud combines laser cutting and laser engraving to create these wing earrings with realistic feather details.

6. Layered 3D Bracelets

By combining 3D software and high tech laser cutting techniques, artist Anthony Roussel creates stunning layered rings and bracelets that are inspired by modern architecture and seaside coastlines.

7. Ethnic Patterns

The "Ethnotize" collection by Rename is a modern interpretation of traditional ethno symbols. Well known ethnic patterns blend the traditional with the modern, and the combination of the wood base with matte black and gold details creates memorable statement pieces.

8. Star Trek Inspired Necklace

This triangle shaped cherry wood necklace from Etsy shop birdofvirtue may seem like just a cool chevron design to some. But Star Trek fans will recognize the symbol right away. It's made of three-layers of intricately laser etched solid cherry wood with the top panel hand-painted a soothing icy mint green for a unique pop of color. This blending of both classy and nerdy is just our cup of tea. (Earl Grey, hot, of course.)

9. Lunar Necklace

Born from a love of nature and pattern, Etsy seller adaandcedar puts an interesting twist on this moon-shaped tribal wood necklace by hand painting a peach color accent.

10. Hand Painted Earrings

Etsy seller ShopJoyo works at the intersection of art and technology to create clean, modern pieces that integrate graphic design with architectural influence. These drop earring take a simple rectangle shape and then brings it to life with a hand painted teal and gold geometric design.

11. Whimsical Rings

If a touch of whimsy brightens your day, these silhouette rings from Etsy seller whimsymilieu will definitely bring smiles. With diamond, mountain, bear, lady bug, mushroom and strawberry shapes, there's a little fun for everyone.

12. High Flying Necklace

While So Little Time Co. technically designs jewelry, this husband and wife team like to refer to their brooches, necklaces and earrings as wearables. And you'll see why with this aeroplane necklace. It's three dimensions, multiple pieces and hand-painted finish make it as much art as jewelry.

13. Urban Modern Acrylic Necklace

A Portuguese industrial designer that since an early age has interest in fashion design, Olga Ribeiro of Objects of O creates modern acrylic jewelry for urban trendy women-all with an irreverent twist.

14. Haute Couture Acrylic Necklace

World renowned designer Sarah Angold combines her passion for sleek avant-garde styling with the visible structural engineering behind her intricate pieces. This signature aesthetic is seen in her collections that routinely collide hyper-modern industrial processes with meticulous hand assembly and artisanal craftsmanship, such as the stunning Kingla Necklace.

15. Shape Changing Jewelry

London-based designer Alexandra Druzhinin puts a new twist on custom jewelry-and it earned her the London College of Fashion Off-Catwalk award. The Transformable Runway Bracelet combines acrylic with brass, copper and silver laser cut into unique shapes and patterns.

"Through model-making experiments of paper engineering used to make pop-up books, the designer has developed a built-in, rotating mechanism that enables the pieces to change their form," LS:N Global reports. "By placing layers on top of each other, each piece of jewelry can be worn opened or closed, transforming its design from a minimal aesthetic into a mesmerizing display of geometrically patterned surfaces and flamboyant colors."

Inspired? Ready to make your own unique jewelry? Then don't miss this jewelry making for beginners guide that shows how to make jewelry that is functionally sound, aesthetically pleasing and professional looking so that you can proudly wear it yourself, happily give it to friends or family, or confidently sell it to make a profit.

Laser Cut Electronics Enclosures

Building your own electronics is super cool. They blink and whirr, they can speak in tones, might even be voiced-controlled and are definitely "cloud connected."

But what happens when a now assembled heap of your own design is just sitting on your desk? It's waiting for the extra-special final touch: A robust electronics enclosure to house and protect it. Whether you are an Arduino fan or like to build with Raspberry Pi, check out these laser cutter projects for inspiration.

16. Kerf Cut Teeny Lamp

This little light may be small, but it sure is mighty-in design, that is. The Stanford Product Realization Lab, a multi-site teaching facility where Stanford students discover the power to create the future, designed this lamp as part of its laser-cutting curriculum. The kerf cutting pattern of slits allows the flat sheet of wood to bend, giving an otherwise boxy shape a much more interesting silhouette.

17. 3D Printer Case

If you want to make things so you can make more things, then don't miss this maker's take on what he did to redesign a Prusa i3 3D printer, including a complete laser cut enclosure. What's cool about the Prusa is that it's a type of RepRap 3D printer, which is an open source printer you can make yourself. Fun!

18. MeArm Robotic Arm

Robot arms. Because robots are awesome. The MeArm Robot Arm was developed to be the world's most accessible learning tool and smallest coolest robot arm. #success. It comes as a flat-pack kit that you can build with nothing but a screwdriver and enthusiasm. Count us in. Described as the "Perfect Arduino Project for Beginners," it's a great kit to get anyone started in the world of programming, electronics, robotics and engineering.

19. Colorful Raspberry Pi Enclosure

This just might be our favorite Raspberry Pi enclosure evvaahhh! The colors are so poppin'. Get the files and make your own via Thingiverse.

20. RetroPie Arcade Game Controller

If you love old arcade games (who doesn't?!), then don't miss a little piece of electronics enclosures heaven with this throwback game console powered by Raspberry Pi. Follow the full maker journey on Wikimal, then go make your own.

21. Raspberry Pi Mini HiFi

Spotify sounding a little soft on your iPhone? Pump up the volume by building your own mini HiFi system. All you need is a Raspberry Pi, PC speakers and these plans from Thingiverse. The laser cut plywood looks great on its own, but you could stain it for a richer tone or use the wood as a canvas for a custom, hand-painted masterpiece.

22. TJBot

If you wanna put some fun into functional, this TJBot is your guy. Born at IBM Research, TJBot is a DIY template to learn, experiment and explore AI with IBM Watson. Laser cut this little dude using these plans, then use the open-source, step-by-step recipes (read: coding instructions) designed for a Raspberry PI to connect your TJBot to Watson developer services. Now the fun begins. Teach TJBot to tell a joke, carry on a conversation or even dance. We'd love to see the Macarena!

23. Engraved Raspberry Pi Case

Keep your Raspberry Pi in tip-top shape with this enclosure. It's made from 3mm acrylic; use clear for the top panel to see the engraving, then choose your fave color for the sides and bottom. Wouldn't this look cool in aqua? Or what about the new lavender swirl? Get started with the free files here.

24. SelfieBot

If your selfies suck as bad as ours (arms just aren't long enough!), this SelfieBot will have you looking picture perfect every time without needing a full-size photo booth. The Raspberry Pi-powered selfie camera has an HDMI screen and thermal printer to print out the pic, Polaroid style. Now that's how to make memories even more memorable.

Ok techie, we know you've got some completed electronics projects that are just begging to be properly housed. And you must be inspired with the groovy laser cutter projects above. So what are you waiting for? Dive into this guide to making electronic project boxes and get started!

Laser Cut Wedding Decorations

Once your clients or customers have set the date and found the venue for the ceremony and reception, it's time to start having fun with the wedding décor. Whether the wedding and reception is in a church hall, hotel banquet room, garden, park, backyard or even a barn, the decorations chosen make the event unique to the happy couple.

Here are eight great laser cutter projects to style that beautiful day-from the initial save-the-date announcements all the way to the reception-plus a bonus item that the bride will L.O.V.E.

25. Wooden Save-The-Date Magnets

Everyone loves refrigerator magnets; that's why businesses use them as promotional tools. So why not take that same principle of creating awareness + excitement and translate it to a wedding save-the-date? These magnets from Etsy seller StylineDesigns are laser cut and engraved from high quality sustainable wood. What's great is that these save-the-dates become keepsakes after the wedding. Every time guests see the magnet on the fridge, they can remember the beauty-and fun-of the big day.

26. Custom Wedding Invitation

When Renata and Dante were planning their wedding at Amantikir Garden in Campos do Jordão, Brazil, they chose the wedding venue not only because of its gorgeous gardens but also because it was part of their history as a couple. They also didn't want anything exaggerated or too luxurious because it wouldn't reflect who they are. This custom invitation incorporated the beauty of a garden setting with simplicity and sophistication. See the entire story on Junebug Weddings.

27. Garden Themed Wedding Invitation

These garden invitations from Stylish Wedd, an online wedding store specializing in custom wedding invitations, look like they're straight out of a fairy tale. From ferns and flowers to butterflies and birds, the cards feature the bride and groom perfectly silhouetted under the wedding arch.

28. Wedding Invitation Envelopes

If you want to make a statement from the minute your wedding guests open the invitation, laser engrave the envelopes. These beauties from Qards are sunning.

29. Wedding Book Cover

Personalize a wedding photo album or guest book-and add dimension-by designing a custom cover. This design is inspired by the softness and floral shapes of baby's breath, but you could create anything that's special to the couple from a city skyline of where they live to a monogram of their initials joining together.

30. Script Table Numbers

Etsy shop LettersToYou specializes in custom hand lettering and calligraphy, and these table numbers show that a computer isn't required to create a beautiful script. These custom table signs are all hand drawn, laser cut in sturdy MDF wood and painted in gold, rose gold, silver, black or white to coordinate with a variety of wedding color schemes.

31. Wedding Signage

Toast the bride and groom-and, more importantly (wink), direct guests to the bar-with this massive wedding sign. We'll drink to that.

32. Wood Place Cards

For couples with very specific reception seating assignments, these wedding place cards go far beyond the paper tents of old. These names are rendered from wood in calligrapher Laura Hooper's lovely lettering. They lend an elegantly rustic touch to place settings and double as take-home gifts for guests.

33. Bridal Shoes

You may think laser cutting is limited to wedding decorations. Not always! These bridal shoes put a twist on the traditional sling back with a custom ankle wrap. These are so pretty we'd find a way to wear these again after the ceremony!

Today's couples don't want cookie cutter ceremonies or receptions. They want decorations that are tailored to their unique personalities and tastes. There is much opportunity for makers to sell their laser cutter projects in this space. So if you're ready to say "I Do!" to making wedding decorations, check out this guide to styling a beautiful day so you can plan like a pro.

Laser Cut Bookmarks

Whether you're voraciously reading New York Times Bestsellers, keeping tabs on the latest business trends or perusing the pages of the classics, there's one thing every bibliophile needs: A bookmark that's just as amazing as the books being read.

While most of the custom bookmarks on the market are made from wood or leather, that doesn't mean other materials couldn't be used. (Sounds like an opportunity to us!) At any rate, after seeing these design ideas, you may need to buy more books!

34. Bamboo Bookmarks

These charming bookmarks from Australian designer/seller Little Card Boutique prove that the right simple design can make a big impact. Offered in six fab designs-Melbourne, plane, heart, fell asleep here, stars and apple-these page holders make great teacher gifts. And since they easily fit in an envelope and can be personalized with additional text, you could use them as promotional products or direct mail pieces.

35. Embroidered Wooden Bookmarks

Designer Jane Blease has a completely different take on wooden bookmarks: She hand-embroiders them! First, she laser cuts the bookmarks in three classic wood veneers (walnut, oak or ash). Then she embroiders spiral, hexagon or heart shapes in an array of gorgeous colors. Finally, she backs the bookmarks with matching soft felt to protect the books. Clever and pretty!

36. Zoo Animals Bookmarks

In addition to its retail store, Lucca Workshop also sells worldwide via its Etsy shop where we found this adorable set of four zoo animals bookmarks. The panda, raccoon, fox and bear bookmarks are perfect for kids and those young at heart!

37. Delicately Detailed Bookmarks

One of the great things about laser cut products is the precise, consistent cutting of fine details. The intricate design of these wood bookmarks look like the imagery came right out of a fairy tale.

38. Arabic Architecture Inspired Bookmarks

Designed by Spanish Mayúscula Brands for the Kuwaiti company Zeri Crafts, the geometric forms on the bookmark are inspired by Al Sadu Bedouin tribal rug weaving patterns. These shapes create a play of light and shadow much like mashrabiyas, the latticework typical of Arabic architecture that is often seen in windows.

39. TARDIS Inspired Bookmark

For fans of Doctor Who, this TARDIS inspired bookmark from VectorEngraving is a must-have page keeper for any time-travelling adventurer.

40. Save-The-Date Bookmarks

For couples who want to create wedding keepsakes from the very first engagement announcement, look no further than save-the-date bookmarks. These bookmarks come complete with a raffia tie to finish out the natural look. But this kind of bookmark doesn't only have to be for weddings. You could also create them for milestone birthday or anniversary celebrations as a take-home gift for guests. You could even design bookmarks to use as birth announcements when a child is born and include the baby's name, birth date, location, weight and length.

41. Painted Wood Bookmarks

While the natural color of wood is nice, these bookmarks from Etsy seller LasercraftWorkshop have a welcome pop of color. And we love the engraved "I Fell Asleep Here" text combined with the laser cut nighttime stars as a companion to any bedtime story.

42. Engraved Leather Bookmark

This engraved leather bookmark from Etsy seller ThePinkMonkeyCompany has a classic oval shape and a medieval tudor rose inspired pattern. It's offered in two sizes and eight colors: Black, blue, chestnut brown, chocolate, conker brown, dark bottle green, plum and red. Pair it with a leather-bound classic for the perfect gift.

43. Promotional Leather Bookmark

When Monotype, the brand behind more than 20,000 typefaces, introduced Quire Sans, it needed some special swag to get the buzz going at an upcoming tradeshow. Since "quire" is a classical term for a signature of printed leaves, folded and ready for binding with other signatures into a book or manuscript, a bookmark was a natural fit. Read the entire story here.

Ready to embark on your bookmark making journey? It will be a trip! With all the bookmark designs available, where do you begin? A good brainstorming session is a great place to start along with this guide to making bookmarks that will help put your creativity and personal touch into these popular laser cutter projects.

Laser Cut Signs

What's your sign? No, we're not talking about the stellar arrangements when you were born. Rather, how do you communicate information to customers, friends or family using words or art?

Whether welcoming invitations, stark warnings of impending danger or shining neon beacons of comfort and relaxation, signs guide our world. There are many ways to attract eyeballs from a distance, and here's a selection of laser cutter projects that we found particularly eye-catching in both wood and acrylic.

44. Negative Space Office Sign

Established by graphic designers Andrew and Marija Van Rensburg, Tigermouse Design specializes in various bespoke wooden handcrafted pieces ranging from lettering to furniture. In this office sign, they play with negative space to create a unique effect.

45. Reclaimed Wood Sign

By combining laser cut wooden lettering with reclaimed wood backing and frame, you can create that warm, rustic vibe. This Harper Grayce sign was designed as a wedding gift for a newly married couple. But you can use this same idea with baby names, favorite quotes or Bible verses.

46. Decorative Garland Sign

In Portuguese, Bem Vindo means "welcome." The laser cut floral design and peaceful dove on this welcome wreath will immediately make guests feel at home.

47. Wooden Sidewalk Sign

The laser cut logo for Sakura, a Japanese-based support center for people with intellectual, physical and mental disabilities, encompasses some of the services the facility offers-from gardening to sewing and textile making. Attaching the logo to a free-standing, sandwich-board base allows the sign to easily be moved for changing signage needs. And the warm walnut stain on the base creates a nice contrast with the logo as well as an overall inviting aesthetic.

48. Natural Office Sign

Award-winning industrial designer Joan Lao's artistic concepts stem from nature and the constant pursuit of the beauty in simplicity without artificial elements. This office signage design reflects his vision where each of the design's elements comprise the ideal organic space, creating atmospheres where everything is integrated.

49. Creative Bathroom Signs

While bathroom signs must be clear to avoid any embarrassing encounters, why not have a little fun with them. Designed for a restaurant or bar, these bathroom signs from Etsy shop grayskunk use negative space-and some cleverly placed beverage vessels-to designate the men's room from the ladies' room.

50. Hotel Directional Room Sign

This directional room sign for the Crete, Greece-based Galaxy Hotel captures the hotel's essence of where traditional meets contemporary and where sophistication greets functionality. The clear acrylic is edge lit, which allows the light to diffuse over the surface and catch on the engraved sections, making the numbers appear bright.

51. Wood Framed Edge Lit Sign

Here's another example of an edge lit sign, but this one has a wooden frame along the top and bottom edge to further focus the light to the engraved words for high visibility.

52. Acrylic Restroom Sign

This restroom sign combines a bamboo base with a clear acrylic face that is mounted on brushed silver "standoffs" containing LED lights for illumination.

53. Round Illuminated Sign

Masahiro Minami, assistant professor of the University of Shiga Prefecture Department of Living Design, designed these simple yet effective restroom signs. Not only is the round shape eye catching, but mounting them perpendicular to the wall and adding built in LED lighting also makes them very visible in the new school building in which they're installed.

54. Coffee Shop Sign

This laser cut exterior signage, designed by Jack Candlish for a Wellington, New Zealand coffee shop, was installed on macrocarpa slats. The result is an appealing contrast between the crisp black lettering and the warmth of the wooden background.

55. Black Acrylic Custom Shape Sign

There are so many good things happening graphically with this black acrylic wall sign. First, the use of negative space for the lettering is interesting. The typography has an ease and flow to it, and the lower case letters give it a casualness while still having strength. Finally, the overall dripping shape demonstrates originality and brings this sign to life.

If any of these signs spoke to you and you're ready to make some of your own laser cutter projects, check out this how-to guide for making signs that includes all you need to know about the tools and materials necessary for building and making signs for the most common occasions.

50 Laser Cutter Projects By Material

Are you a maker that loves working with a certain material? We've organized these 50 laser cut ideas based on 10 of the most popular materials: Clear acrylic, amber bamboo (2.7mm), birch plywood, birch veneer, black acrylic, matte black acrylic, amber bamboo (6.7mm), corrugated cardboard, white acrylic and MDF. Take a look:

1. Clear Acrylic - 3.0 mm
Top Quality: Engraves Beautifully
Why is clear acrylic a top choice of makers? Because of how well it reacts to laser cutting. The surface of this thermoplastic engraves with a nice frosty finish that catches light wonderfully, and the edges melt smoothly rather than burning like wooden materials.

It's also a staple material choice because of its versatility. You can make anything from jewelry, tableware and electronics enclosures to conference badges, signage, book covers, point of sale displays-and these laser cut ideas are just the tip of the iceberg of potential uses. And since you can heat acrylic to give it a bend, you can give your laser cutter projects a boost by taking it beyond the constraints of two dimensions.

Finally, acrylic is budget friendly, making it an economical alternative to glass. Clear acrylic is also less expensive than other acrylic colors, which only helps sweeten the appeal.

So what kind of laser cutter projects can you make from this super popular material? Check these out:

For a taste of tech inspiration, head over to C4Lab's Etsy shop to see why this Raspberry Pi case is so sweet.

2. Amber Bamboo - 2.7 mm
Top Quality: Natural Honey Tone
There's so much to love about bamboo. It is a sustainable and eco-friendly material because of its fast growth. Once formed into sheets, it is plywood, which makes it strong and durable. It can be laser cut to a fine detail and engraves beautifully. And because of its thinness, it is quick-and thus more economical-to laser cut.

Bamboo is also super versatile. Makers use it for jewelry, tableware, electronics enclosures, conference badges, signage, book covers and point of sale displays.

Bamboo's prominent grain and warm hues make it stand out from a myriad of other plywoods and timber laminates. And the warm color of the amber stain makes it ideal for projects with a nature theme. Artist, designer and Ponoko maker Bridget Kearney has created an entire line of earrings, brooches and pendants made exclusively from bamboo. See her work, which is inspired by travels through the countryside collecting flora and fauna, at Caravan Creative.

For inspiration, don't miss these five laser cutter projects made using this bamboo:

Feeling crafty? Check out these geometric wooden cabochons from Etsy seller CraftyCutsLaser.

3. Birch Plywood - 3.2 mm
Top Quality: Budget Friendly
Birch plywood is made from laminations of birch veneer. It is lightweight but strong, among the strongest and most dimensionally stable plywoods. It has a great price point and is commonly used for making laser cut scale models, jewelry, model boats, model airplanes, product housings, drones, clocks, prototypes and signage.

You'll want to start making with birch after you see these five laser cutter projects:

4. Birch Veneer - 5.2 mm
Top Quality: Thicker Yet Economical
When you need thicker wood for your laser cutting projects, birch veneer is the top choice. Like it's thinner companion, this birch is commonly used for making product housings, drones, clocks, prototyping, furniture and signage. Because birch is a natural product, keep in mind that there may be an occasional knot on the surface. It's part of the beauty of wood, but this characteristic can potentially impact the design.

So if you've been wanting to try out birch veneer for your laser cutter projects, check out these five design ideas to see what's possible:

With the laser cut Star Wars Millennium Falcon inspired wall clock from Etsy shop HamsterCheeksStore, the force will be with you.

5. Black Acrylic - 3.0 mm
Top Quality: Classic Black
Black acrylic is a classic favorite. Why? Because engraving looks soooo good on this material. The frosty white engraving contrasts beautifully with black. Jewelry is one of the top laser cut products from black acrylic, but it also looks smashing for anything that requires a sophisticated, sleek palette-tableware, electronics enclosures, conference badges, signage, book covers, point of sale displays, etc. And if your design includes interlocking pieces, check out this tutorial that covers how-to make it happen.

What laser cutter projects could you make using black acrylic? Here are five great design ideas:

6. Matte Black Acrylic - 3.0 mm
Top Quality: Sophisticated Texture
Matte black acrylic is a close second to traditional black acrylic and is used when you want a silky satin finish that doesn't reflect everything. Engraving contrasts well on matte black acrylic too, making it perfect for jewelry, tableware, electronics enclosures, conference badges, signage, book covers and point of sale displays.

Get your creativity flowing with these five matte black acrylic laser cutter projects:

If you want to power up your fashion game, check out these laser cut black matte acrylic Pac-Man earrings from Etsy seller muchoshop.

7. Amber Bamboo - 6.7 mm
Top Quality: Sustainability
When you need a thicker bamboo for those bigger laser cutter projects-such as this award-winning modern birdhouse-look no further than the three-ply 6.7mm bamboo. As a plywood, it's nice and strong. Since bamboo is 100% renewable, it's an ideal choice for the eco-friendly crowd.

The amber color is a golden brown with a fine grain. The bamboo joints are visible on the surface, breaking up the grain to create a unique appearance. And like the thinner bamboo materials, you can also make jewelry, tableware, electronics enclosures, conference badges, signage, book covers and point of sale displays from this thickness as well.

These five design ideas will surely inspire you:

Designer Andy Shen uses interlocking pieces of laser cut bamboo to create Booboo drones.

8. Corrugated Cardboard - 4.0 mm
Top Quality: Ideal For Prototyping
Cardboard is a great choice when creating prototypes of designs, as it is inexpensive and cuts quickly. Creating structures from corrugated cardboard can be a great way to test out complex designs because slotting, stacking and folding shapes all work well to create 3D forms.

But don't think that cardboard is limited to prototyping. With the right inspiration, it is sophisticated enough to stand on its own. See these 20 designs and you'll know why.

While cardboard has a lot of great applications for laser cutter projects, keep in mind that it isn't great for super intricate designs. And you'll want to keep it away from heat sources unless the cardboard is treated with an environmentally friendly fire retardant because it catches fire easily!

Check out these five products made from card:

9. White Acrylic - 3.0 mm
Top Quality: Great For Detail
With black acrylic making the list (twice!), you shouldn't be surprised to see white acrylic make the list too because it such a classic, neutral color. Acrylic cuts precisely, so you can create beautifully intricate designs with this material. This is probably why so much jewelry is made from acrylic. But it's also suitable for tableware, electronics enclosures, conference badges, signage, book covers and point of sale displays.

See how great white acrylic looks with these five laser cutter projects:

10. MDF - 6.0 mm

Top Quality: Easy To Glue & Paint For 3D Designs

Another budget-friendly material, MDF has a warm golden tone and a smooth texture that makes it easy to glue and paint with pretty much anything. It's great for creating complex 3D forms, so it lends itself well to making models, drones, clocks, prototypes, furniture and signage. Check out this previous post for even more laser cutter projects.

See what you can make with these five MDF design ideas:

Start Making Your Own Laser Cutter Projects

Are you ready to start making? Surely your creative juices are flowing after seeing all of these laser cutter projects! Use this post anytime you need some inspiration to get out of a creative rut. So bookmark this bad boy and refer back often!

And let us know what you've been inspired to make because of this post. We want to celebrate your success!

Got pics of your creations? We'd love to see them. Mention @Ponoko on Twitter or give us a shout on Facebook.

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105 Amazing Laser Cutter Projects And Ideas To Inspire You

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Whether you're new to making and looking for a place to start or you're a seasoned maker who wants to expand in new directions or get a fresh take on your current path, do we have some laser cutter projects inspiration for you.

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