Pre-purchase a class and get a free day pass! Support the final onboarding and class development with this offer. Classes are expected to launch in October.

xtool metalfab cnc laser
Tool Training

Duration: 3 hours
Class Size: 3 people
Price: $120 (includes a day pass)
Ages: 16+ (If 13-15, guardian must attend and purchase a class seat)

This class introduces you to the xTool 1200 Watt MetalFab CNC Laser. It replaces the work of manually cutting out precise shapes in metal. You give it a computer design and it cuts the shape out of sheet metal, with edges clean enough that most thin parts need little or no finishing.

We are starting with 1/16" (~16 gauge) carbon steel, which cuts cleanly on shop air and works well with our existing sheet metal equipment. By the end of the year we intend to support a variety of metals up to 11 gauge (~1/8"), and thicker materials after that (we hear you FIRST robotics teams!).

Whether you’re an artist, engineer, hobbyist, jeweler or robotics student, this tool will make it much easier for you to cut intricate shapes out of sheet metal up to 24” x 24”.

You will learn how to:

• Create a simple cut design and prepare it for metal

• Choose the right material and settings

• Load and secure your sheet on the cutting bed

• Send your job from the software to the machine

• Run and monitor the job

• Safely remove your parts and slugs

• Shut down and clean up the work area

With the successful completion of this class, you'll be authorized to use the xTool MetalFab for CNC cutting with a Maker Works membership. With our initial offering, you get a day pass* that includes a two hour reservation valid within 90 days of having taken the class.

* Valid within 90 days of having taken the class. See our membership page for details on day, month, quarter, annual passes and more

What this class does not cover

Maker Works is authorizing members on CNC cutting mode only. The following are not taught in this class and are not permitted at this time.

• Laser welding

• Handheld laser cutting

• Rust and paint removal with the cleaning nozzle

• Cutting anything copper or highly reflective (ask staff if you’re unsure)

Why not thicker metals now?

We are prioritizing getting the basic, safe operation of the machine with minimal variables first. Once we’re confident with that, we’ll bring in the gas cylinders required for thicker materials. The initial support for 1/16” carbon-steel aligns well with our sheet metal equipment.

A huge thanks to our supporters and members for funding this tool, and xTool for being a fantastic partner!