Copper Wire Inlaid Coaster

thingiverse

A handcrafted laser cut coaster boasts an intricate inlay of 18 g copper metal jewelry wire arranged in a simple circle, evoking the majestic planet Saturn. The two innovative designs above are crafted with precision using 18 gauge wire and 1/8th inch balsa birch wood. After laser cutting, it's easiest to shape the wire around the cut-out piece to establish the basic shape, then place the cut-out inside the coaster and hammer the wire into position. I found it beneficial to employ a thin file to facilitate hammering in more stubborn pieces and ensure an even level of wire. The pressure exerted by the wire between the two wood pieces securely holds the coaster together, eliminating the need for glue or soldering in both designs. The accompanying .svg file contains both coaster designs, while the individual PDFs showcase each unique design separately. When working with a different gauge of wire, I recommend determining its diameter and adjusting the gap between shapes to be approximately 0.02 inches wider than the diameter.