How to Create a 3D Laser Cut Map

Equipped with the right laser engraver, you can make virtually anything you set your mind to. 3D laser cut maps are some of the most stunning three-dimensional pieces you’ll see, if done correctly. Custom laser-cut topographic maps make the ideal gift or accessory for your Etsy shop. In this guide, we’ll show you how to create your own beautiful laser-cut map. Let’s dive in! 

Step-by-step Guide for Creating a 3D Laser Cut Map

Materials You'll Need

Before we get started, gather the following materials:

• 1/8 inch Baltic Birch
• Paint and stain of your choice
• Glue
• A computer with Adobe Illustrator and access to the program LightBurn

Step 1: Downloading and Preparing Your Map

First, visit snazzymaps.com to find a stylized map based on Google Maps data. Follow these steps:

• Navigate to the "Styles" section and search for maps that suit Glowforge settings—this ensures the maps have good color differentiation, which we need.
• Select a map style that features several colors—ideally, four or five. We found that searching “Glowforge” in the search bar provided the most suitable maps.
• Once you find a map that you like, locate your city or area of interest. For our example, we chose Richmond.

After selecting your map area, download the image with the following settings to ensure a high-quality result:

• Set the image dimensions to 1000 x 1000 pixels.
• Set the export scale to 3 times.

This way, you get a large, high-resolution PNG file, perfect for the next steps.

Step 2: Converting Your Map into a Vector Format

Open the downloaded PNG file in Adobe Illustrator to convert it into a vector. This step is crucial since vectors are scalable without losing detail.

• Open the PNG file in Illustrator. You will notice it's quite large—about 41 inches by 41 inches.
• Select the map image and go to the "Image Trace" tool.
• Start with a three-color preset for tracing. Adjust the settings until all necessary details are clear, such as streets and landmarks.
• To improve accuracy, increase the number of colors and reduce the noise to about 5 pixels. You can toggle off "Preview" to minimize processing time as you adjust settings.
• Once satisfied with the trace, select "Expand" to turn the traced image into vectors.
• To organize the vectors, ungroup them and sort them by color into separate layers—white for land, blue for water, and so on.

Step 3: Preparing the Cut Files

Next, we’ll clean up the vector map in Illustrator and prepare it for cutting:

• Create a solid backer for the map. This represents the landmass.
• Set the backer to match your map dimensions (e.g., 12x12 inches) and ensure it's centered.
• Replace the white layer with the new solid backer.
• Use the Pathfinder tool to create the river by subtracting it from the landmass.
• Organize the layers—put larger roads and highways into their own grouped layers for cleanliness.

Optional: Adding a Frame

Frames are not just aesthetic—they help keep the map intact.

• Create a 20-point stroke rectangle around the map. Make sure it is centered and within the outer map dimensions.
• Merge the frame with each layer using the Pathfinder tool.
• For an intricate look, consider embedding your city’s name into the frame. Use the Type tool, make the text into outlines, and then merge these outlines with your frame layer using the “Unite” function in the Pathfinder tool.

Step 4: Importing into LightBurn

Now that the file is prepared:

• Export it as an SVG file from Illustrator. Name it clearly, such as "Richmond 3D City Map."
• Launch LightBurn, the software that controls your OMTech Polar 350.
• Import the SVG file into LightBurn.
• Arrange your layers into appropriate functions – red for cutting and black for engraving.
• Double-check the dimensions to ensure your design fits within the engraving area of the OMTech Polar 350, typically around 20.1" x 11.8".

Step 5: Setting Up the OMTech Polar 350

For this project, we used the OMTech Polar 350 to make this process straightforward. These are the settings we used:

• For 1/8 inch Baltic Birch, set the laser to 10mm/s at 26% power for cutting.
• For engraving (secondary roads), use 150mm/s at 21% power.
• Ensure you fill the engraving sections adequately.

Step 6: Cutting and Engraving

To begin:

• Place the Baltic Birch in the laser bed.
• Use the 5MP camera to position your design accurately within the board.
• Start with the engraving pass, followed by cutting. Ensure one operation finishes completely before starting the next.

Step 7: Painting and Staining

Once all pieces are cut and engraved:

• If you have water, paint the back piece blue.
• Use a dark stain for the land and frame. Light sanding before and after staining will smooth out any residue.
• Paint the streets and roads with a contrasting color to ensure they stand out.

Step 8: Assembly

Assembly is straightforward but requires precision:

• Use a small-tip applicator for your glue; we recommend Starbond thick glue that comes with micro tips.
• Apply small dots along the roads and other narrow features to avoid excess glue seeping out.
• Begin with the back layer (water), then place the land layer, followed by the highways and roads.
• Secure each layer firmly, allowing ample drying time.

Step 9: Adding a Frame

A frame adds a professional finish to your laser-cut wood map to really round it out. Custom or pre-made, choose a frame that fits your map dimensions. Make sure to securely glue the map into the frame.

Step 10: Ready to Display or Sell

Your 3D laser-cut wood map is now ready! Such beautiful maps make a fantastic personalized gift, evoking sentimental value linked to hometowns or memorable locations. They also sell well at craft fairs or on Etsy, often fetching high prices for their detail and craftsmanship.

Why the OMTech Polar 350 is Ideal for 3D Laser Cut Maps

Whether you’re making laser-cut lake maps or other trinkets, the OMTech Polar 350 excels in precision, ease of use, and quality, making it perfect for these intricate projects. Its light but robust build means you can easily move or store it, making it completely adaptable to any workspace. Plus, it's ready to work straight out of the box, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The Polar 350 50W Desktop Laser Engraver is ideal for DIYers, crafters, and laser beginners looking for a compact solution for their needs. This 50W powerhouse has everything you need in one setup: 

• 360-degree internal viewing camera 
• 500mm/s maximum engraving speed 
• Ample 20 x 11” workbed 
• Built-in water chiller and air assist 
• Included rotary attachments for more project versatility

Conclusion

Ready to take your laser cutting and engraving to the next level? The powerful and versatile OMTech Polar 350 is the perfect tool for creators of all levels.

Imagine bringing your vision to life with precision and ease, creating stunning custom 3D maps, intricate engravings, and countless other projects. With its user-friendly features, robust build, and high-performance capabilities, the OMTech Polar 350 is designed to help you succeed with every project.

Don't let your creative potential be limited. Elevate your work and fuel your artistic journey with OMTech. Experience the ultimate laser engraving and cutting solution with OMTech CO2 laser engravers today. Visit our website to learn more and gain access to the next step in laser engraving. Start creating beautiful, professional-quality pieces right out of the box with OMTech.