Manage Projects, Preferences, and File Operations in LightBurn
The File Menu in LightBurn is the go-to location for managing projects, importing designs, saving preferences, and exporting files. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of each tool and its purpose, helping you optimize your laser design workflow.
Key Tools in the File Menu
New Project
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + N
Clears the current project and starts a new, blank project.
New Window
Opens a separate instance of LightBurn, allowing you to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
File Management
Recent Projects
Displays a list of up to 24 recently opened projects for quick access.
Open Project
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + O
Opens LightBurn project files (.lbrn, .lbrn2) or supported image/vector files.
Warning: Opening an image/vector file replaces the current project. Use Import to add designs to an existing project.
Import
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + I
Adds artwork or objects from a range of supported formats (e.g., .svg, .jpg, .ai, .dxf) into the current project.
Show Notes
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + Alt/Option + N
Store and view project-specific notes.
Save Project
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + S
Saves the current project for later editing. If no file name exists, opens a "Save As" dialog.
Save As
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + Shift + S
Saves the current project with a new name or location.
Export
- Shortcut: Alt / Option + X
Exports selected graphics or the entire project in .ai, .svg, or .dxf formats.
Machine-Specific File Management
Save Machine Files
- Shortcut: Alt / Option + Shift + L
Saves the current project in a machine-ready format (e.g., GCode, RD, UD5) for offline laser operation.
Save Processed Bitmap
Exports a copy of a bitmap image after applying adjustments in LightBurn.
Save Background Capture
Saves a bitmap image of a Workspace Overlay created using a camera mounted above the laser's work area.
Preferences and Bundles
Preferences
Access and edit LightBurn’s global settings.
Import Preferences
Load previously exported LightBurn preferences (.lbprefs) into your current instance.
Export Preferences
Save your current LightBurn preferences to a .lbprefs file.
Open Preferences Folder
Opens the folder containing LightBurn preference files and backups.
Load Preferences Backup
Restore settings using a backup preferences file.
Bundles
Bundles (.lbzip) allow you to package and migrate your LightBurn settings, hotkeys, material libraries, and more:
- Import Bundles: Load a previously exported bundle.
- Export Bundles: Create a bundle of your current settings and libraries.
Printing Options
Print (Black Only)
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + P
Prints a black-and-white version of the project to a printer or PDF.
Print (Keep Colors)
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + Shift + P
Prints the project with assigned colors to a printer or PDF.
Exit
Exit LightBurn
- Shortcut: Ctrl / Cmd + Q
Closes LightBurn. If there are unsaved changes, you’ll be prompted to save, discard changes, or cancel the exit process.
By mastering the File Menu, you can efficiently manage projects, streamline file operations, and maintain organized preferences. Whether you're working on a single design or managing multiple projects, these tools ensure your workflow remains smooth and productive.