The Router

I've always wanted to use a router, but never had the guts to do so. So this week was finally a good chance to make use of a powerful tool. And also continue an enclosure project that I began last semester in intro to fab. Biggest thing I learned (other than that the router is an awesome tool) is that using a frame to bend acrylic around would have been much easier than bending the acrylic in free space. This made it wobble in difficult fashion. Regardless, I think the final is much closer to a refined prototype than my original rough sketch. The next step is to determine what kind of light fixture to include in the center, and how I will either mount it to the wall, or to a base. Or do I leave it as is and it is - a desk/table light? 

Clear translucent acrylic looks nice when illuminated, just as desired!

Found some wood

Drilled center holes

Added pivot dowels

Adjusted the router

Made the cuts

Had to do multiple passes

Helped Luna cut

She cut my second piece

Laser cut acrylic

Heated the acrylic

Bent the acrylic

Used gloves after this, also you can see the warping that would have been avoided with a frame

Basically done

A light!