Local Makers SA Heroes in Action (MakersLab.TV)

In today’s project, we’re walking through the creation of a modernised signet ring featuring a family crest. The client wanted an updated version of his father’s hand-engraved ring. This guide will detail the process of preparing, designing, and laser engraving the new ring.

Step 1: Designing the Crest in Adobe Illustrator
The process begins by creating a custom design in Adobe Illustrator. The client provided an image of the family crest to be engraved. Here’s the breakdown of the design process:

Importing the Image: First, the client’s crest is imported into Illustrator.
Image Tracing: Using the “Image Trace” tool, the imported image is converted into a vector. This is essential for producing a clean, precise engraving.
Expand the Image: After tracing, the “Expand” button is pressed to turn the artwork into a detailed outline.
Using the Magic Wand Tool: To isolate and remove the background, the Magic Wand tool is used to select and delete unnecessary elements, leaving each component of the crest individually editable.
Exporting the File: The finalized design is exported as a DXF file, a format compatible with laser engraving machines.

Step 2: Preparing the Laser Engraving Setup
With the design ready, the next step is preparing the file for laser engraving. The software used here is Label Mark, which handles the laser engraving and ensures precision.

Importing the DXF File: In LabelMark, the crest design is imported. Once imported, a preview is generated to confirm the design matches expectations.
Sizing the Artwork: Since the ring is 10mm by 12mm, the design is resized accordingly using Label Mark’s sizing tool.
Hatching the Design: To ensure full-depth engraving, the “Hatch” tool is used. Hatching fills the areas that need engraving with a specified pattern, allowing for different engraving styles. This step ensures the entire design, not just the outlines, will be engraved into the metal.

Step 3: Setting Up the Ring for Engraving
The next challenge was positioning the ring securely on the laser engraving machine for accurate results.

Creating a Jig: A makeshift jig was crafted using bolts and nuts to hold the ring in place. This setup ensures the ring won’t move during the engraving process.
Test Runs: To avoid errors, washers were stacked to match the height of the ring, and test runs were performed. These tests helped fine-tune the laser’s focus, ensuring the engraving depth and clarity matched the client’s expectations.

Step 4: Laser Engraving the Signet Ring
Once the setup was perfected, it was time to begin engraving:

Starting the Engraving: After ensuring the layout was correct, engraving commenced. The machine was set to continuously engrave the crest, ensuring a deep and durable design.
Adjusting for Depth: The continuous setting allowed multiple passes over the same area, creating a deeper and more pronounced engraving. Users can adjust the depth based on preference by controlling the number of engraving passes.

Step 5: Finalizing the Product
Once the engraving was complete, the machine was turned off, and the final product was inspected. The engraving depth was perfect, and the ring maintained its structural integrity. However, it’s important to note that prolonged engraving sessions can cause the ring to become hot due to heat dissipation, so caution is advised when handling the piece afterwards.
Conclusion
This project successfully modernized a treasured family heirloom by combining traditional design elements with modern engraving technology. The final product—a beautifully engraved signet ring with a deep, detailed family crest—met both the client’s and designer’s expectations.
Whether you’re considering modernizing your own family keepsakes or exploring new custom designs, this guide offers a straightforward process for achieving professional, lasting results.
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