“I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it.” ~Vincent Van Gogh

Live interactive Laser Mentoring course!

Embark on a skills learning adventure! In Stage One, even before your laser arrives, we’ll boost your software skills, ignite your creativity, and build confidence.

Stage Two dives into the best practices for laser operation and maintenance, ensuring you grasp everything needed to effortlessly turn your ideas into finished masterpieces. 

Ready to elevate your Thunder Laser journey to joy and success? Enroll in our mentoring course today! Receive 12 hours of live training, access to your class videos, and 4 weeks of live troubleshooting support. Let's make navigating your Thunder Laser a breeze!

Stage One ~ Laser CAD & CAM software

Stage One can be taken before your laser arrives if you like, a computer with fast internet connection and appropriate software is all that is required.

Focusing on software and split into two friendly sessions to ensure you have time to absorb without feeling overwhelmed. The topics we'll cover are below but please keep in mind, true proficiency only comes with practice. Our aim is to equip you with the fundamentals and confidence to continue learning on your own projects.

Fundamentals Overview ~ Stage 0ne, Session One (2hrs)

  • Overview of Computer-Aided Design & Manufacturing

  • Workflow from concept to cut ready art

  • Understanding vectors and vector tools

  • Explore design software options

  • Premade files; where to find, quality check & prep for use

  • Layers and settings basics

Lightburn Deep Dive ~ Stage One, Session Two (4hrs + 30min recess)

  • Lightburn CAD, drawing tools and techniques

  • Lightburn CAM, advanced layering and settings

  • Using and creating hotkeys, setting preferences

  • Designing 3D objects as 2D drawings

  • Working with text & variable text

  • Create a detailed drawing using various techniques

  • Nesting and planning for large production runs

  • Creating material libraries and template files


Stage 2 ~ Laser Operation Fundamentals

This stage Requires a functioning Thunder Laser connected to a Lightburn equipped computer with fast internet connection.

This time, we're diving hands-on into every nook and cranny of the laser. In the first session, we'll tackle machine parts and maintenance, while Session Two delves deep into material setup, cut strategies, and laser operation.

Thunder Laser Overview ~ Session Three (2hrs)

  • Explore each part of your machine and how they function together

  • Ruida control board operation

  • Lens and mirror cleaning and alignment

  • Various laser heads and focus techniques

  • Useful tools to have around

  • Introduction to hold downs & jigs

  • Materials general overview

Operating your Thunder Laser ~ Session Four (4hrs + 30min recess)

  • Orientations and ways of using them

  • Air assist, when and why to use it

  • Adding a larger air compressor - do you need to?

  • Running a ramp test to find your optimal focal length

  • Find your kerf setting and why it matters

  • Quick testing techniques for optimal settings

  • Engrave and Cut 

  • Paying attention to what your machine is doing - fine tuning

Trouble Shooting Support ~2 weeks coverage (4hrs max)

As you embark on your Maker journey, rest assured that the Troubleshooting Support has you covered. For two weeks after the course ends you can I’ll be there to help get you over any speed bumps you may encounter.

Send a file for review, book a call, whatever works. After all, it’s in both our best interests that you succeed at Making excellence.

Consider this lesson plan only as a guide the classes will follow. The nature of this training, adjusting to individual needs, means some things may be skipped and some others added along the way.