Assignment
We each had to make one 3D polyhedron form. The polyhedron needed to have five or more panels (so, not a pyramid and not a cube). The polyhedron panels also needed to have a pattern applied by the laser cut (cutout or etching). We were to make sure that the pattern was harmonious and aesthetically appealing
Process
Final Piece
Reflection
This assignment was fun for me, as I had only ever laser cut bristol board before. Taking the orientation and exploring the other Parson’s building, as well as its material store, was a good opportunity to further familiarize myself with the school’s resources. However, even though I am pretty sure my settings were all correct, when I went to cut my plexiglass, it did not cut all the way through. I believe this is because sometimes the power level is simply too low, and I had seen the technician raise the power level manually during my orientation for the demo cut. I did not think there was anything wrong with mine until I came home and peeled off the adhesive backing though. I tried to break apart the pieces and broke some of them accidentally in the process. The holes I had designed for mechanical connectors would not punch out, so I used tape to assemble my piece for critique. This fell apart in critique though, so I then had to use superglue. I now understand why we are learning to use other methods of connecting besides glue; even though I tried my best to keep it neat, the glue seems were extremely messy! Even though I had intended for the star patterns to be cut out and to project star-shaped light onto the walls, the etched effect was also successful. It gave the stars a nice, subtle glow instead.
