Hi Sherry,
If you've ever worked with CorelDraw or Adobe Illustrator, you've worked in a true graphics environment.
Working in a true graphics environment, means you're creating a layout, placing images etc., often more visually than mathematically, then sending the layout to an output device.
The output device, may be a laser or ink jet printer, laser engraving machine, vinyl plotter or computerized (mechanical) engraving machine.
In the case of old-technology computerized engraving machines, layouts are created through "Autolayout" or "Manual Layout" modes.
In autolayout mode, the operator inputs the plate size, various letter/image heights and margins. The computer determines the line spacing. The computer-generated layout may need some tweaking, in which case, the operator has to "manually" adjust the "baselines."
A baseline refers to the distance, from the bottom of a character, to the top of the plate. The measurements are determined through decimal inches, i.e. 1/4"=.25, 7/8"=.875, etc.
A "Graphic Display" is used to view the layout before engraving. It's a separate function and in most cases, not a very clear depiction of letters or images. It does allow for catching glaring errors in a layout.
If further adjustments are necessary, the operator goes back and forth between layout a graphic display fields, until they're satisfied.
In the case of "very" old technology, there was no graphic display at all. The first engraved plate served that purpose.
Most modern machinery allows you to work in a true graphics environment.
It's to your benefit to learn a graphics program, such as CorelDraw. That knowledge will put you in a good position to enter most areas of the modern awards & engraving industry. Sublimation, laser engraving, vinyl lettering, to mention a few.
To sum it up, I feel it's more important to get involved with engraving, no matter which level you begin.
"Ya gotta start somewhere" :-)
David "The Stunt Engraver" Lavaneri
DGL Engraving
Port Hueneme, CA |