[TheForge] software

[Ries Niemi]

I can output vector DXF files from illustrator. 
I tend to use Photoshop/Illustrator, as its common, easy to buy at a discount, many people know how to use it, and it will do everything I need. 
I use photoshop to output bitmap files to my vector conversion program for my embroidery software, I use illustrator to convert my photoshop files to DXF that I can send to my local waterjet cutting shop.
I find photoshop very easy to scan image into, or even drag and drop things I find on google image searches, then trace, either manually, or using tracing functions in illustrator. 
Its not cheap, but its not hideously expensive, either. 
For instance, Autocad costs thousands and thousands, and is constantly being upgraded to make your old one obsolete. And its very hard to learn.
Photoshop, in the whole adobe creative suite, is available at student prices for around five hundred- and pretty much everybody knows somebody who is a student. 
I find it really easy to hire kids who are very proficient at photoshop/illustrator, and its so widely used that pretty much anybody can read the files.

And it has the real flexibility and horsepower to do pretty much anything you want. 

ries


On Jun 17, 2012, at 3:22 PM, Mark and Sylvia Mondloch wrote:

> They want DXF files.
> 
> 
> 
> Mark and Sylvia Mondloch
> Silver Creek Pottery & Forge
> mondloch at silvercreekpottery.com
> www.silvercreekpottery.com
> -----Original Message----- 
> From: terry l. ridder
> Sent: Sunday, June 17, 2012 12:13 PM
> To: Blacksmithing List Sponsored by ABANA
> Subject: Re: [TheForge] software
> 
> hello;
> 
> the first question that comes to mind is:
> what type of files and communication protocols does your
> laser cutter understand?
> 
> the answer to that will pretty much dictate which software packages are
> available for you to use.
> 
> On Sun, 17 Jun 2012, Mark and Sylvia Mondloch wrote:
> 
>> I have been finding a need to do some lettering for signs. I want the
>> ability to use different fonts and curve the words. Also would want to be
>> able to have the files compatible with my laser cutter.Also would like to 
>> be
>> able to scan leaves or pictures and trace for laser cutting. Any
>> suggestions?
>> 
>> Mark and Sylvia Mondloch
>> Silver Creek Pottery & Forge
>> mondloch at silvercreekpottery.com
>> www.silvercreekpottery.com
>> 
> 
> -- 
> terry l. ridder ><>
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