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      Understanding Layer Modes in LightBurn

      A Comprehensive Guide to Line, Fill, Offset Fill, and Image Modes

      In LightBurn, Layer Modes determine how your laser interacts with the materials to cut or engrave your designs. These modes can be customized for different parts of a design by assigning colors/layers through the Color Palette and adjusting their settings in the Cuts / Layers Window or Cut Settings Editor.

      Quick Tip:

      Use the Preview Window in LightBurn to simulate your laser’s output before starting a job. This helps you visualize the effects of your chosen settings.

      1. Line Mode

      Purpose: Trace vector graphic contours.

      • How It Works: The laser follows the outline of your vector shapes.
      • Use Cases:
        • Scoring: Light surface etching by setting high Speed and low Power.
        • Cutting: Deeper or full cuts through material by reducing Speed and increasing Power.
      • Customization: Adjust Power and Speed to control the depth and intensity.
      • Example: Creating outlines, cutting material, or adding sharp details.

      Ref-LayerMode-LineDemo

      2. Fill Mode

      Purpose: Fill the interior of vector graphics with parallel lines.

      • How It Works: The laser engraves a series of parallel lines within the boundaries of a shape.
      • Key Settings:
        • Line Interval: Controls the spacing between each engraved line.
        • Speed and Power: Affect the depth and darkness of the engraving.
      • Use Cases:
        • Dark, deep engravings: Use low Speed, high Power, and low Line Interval.
        • Light markings: Use high Speed, low Power, and higher Line Interval.
      • Example: Engraving text, logos, or solid shapes.

      Ref-LayerModes-FillDemo

      3. Offset Fill Mode

      Purpose: Etch lines that follow the contour of a shape.

      • How It Works: Similar to Fill Mode but with lines that trace the shape’s outline, reducing unnecessary laser travel.
      • Key Settings:
        • Line Interval: Defines the spacing between contour lines.
        • Speed and Power: Control etching depth and darkness.
      • Use Cases:
        • Large, hollow designs with minimal interior detail.
        • Reducing job time for designs with significant empty space.
      • Example: Engraving borders, shapes with wide spacing, or abstract designs.

      Ref-LayerModes-OffsetFillDemo

      4. Image Mode

      Purpose: Engrave raster images with special processing options.

      • How It Works: Similar to Fill Mode but optimized for images, allowing advanced processing like dithering, threshold, or grayscale.
      • Key Settings:
        • Speed and Power: Determine engraving depth and contrast.
        • Line Interval: Controls engraving resolution.
        • Image Processing Modes: Adjusted using the Adjust Image tool or Shape Properties window.
      • Use Cases:
        • Engraving detailed photos or complex image patterns.
      • Example: Recreating high-quality photo engravings on wood or acrylic.

      Ref-LayerModes-ImageDemo

      Choosing the Right Layer Mode

       Mode  Primary Use Best For
       Line Mode  Tracing outlines  Cutting, scoring, marking lines
       Fill Mode  Engraving solid interiors  Text, logos, solid shapes
       Offset Fill  Filling shapes with contour   lines  Reducing travel time for   hollow designs
       Image Mode  Engraving raster images  Photos, raster-based graphics

      By understanding and effectively applying LightBurn’s Layer Modes, you can optimize your laser cutting and engraving projects for precision, speed, and quality. Experiment with these modes to find the perfect settings for your designs.