Essential Lightburn Tools Every Beginner Should Know

Mastering the basic tools in Lightburn

For most popular projects; coasters, signs, ornaments—you only need to master about 10% of Lightburn’s features. Here are a few of those explained!

The Selection Tool (Shortcut: Esc)

The Function: This is your "home base" in Lightburn. Use it to select, move, and resize your artwork.

The Pro-Tip: If you find yourself accidentally drawing circles or lines when you’re trying to move an object, you’re stuck in a creation mode.

The Sanity Saver: Tap the Esc key. It instantly drops whatever tool you’re using and brings you back to the Selector. It’s the fastest way to regain control of your workspace.

The Rectangle / Ellipse 'Drawing' Tool (Ctrl + R)

What it does: The construction crew. Draws your core geometry like boxes, circles, and stars.

Sanity Saver: Don't eyeball the proportions. Hold Shift while dragging to automatically lock it into a perfect Square or Circle.

The Writing/Text Tool (Ctrl + T)

What it does: Types words.

Sanity Saver: After typing, press the 'Select' arrow (Esc) immediately to resize or move the text. Don't try to move text while the 'A' tool is still active.

 

The Offset Shapes or Outline Tool (Alt + O)

What it does: Creates a larger or smaller outline around your shape.

Sanity Saver: This is how you make thick borders or 'trace' an object to cut it out after engraving.

If you need help with Lightburn Feel Free to reach out!Your friend with the laser, Jessie | Jessie@joneslasercraft.com