Build Dad Build: Indelible White Tile Method

Introduction

• Nick introduces the episode of "Build Dad Build".
• Focus on laser engraving a white tile using indelible white tile method.
• Mentions equipment: Auteur Laser Master 2 Pro and D1 in Laserbox Basic.

Materials Needed

1. Rust-Oleum 2x Ultra Cover Spray Paint
   • Recommended color: Heirloom White (satin).
   • Known for effectiveness due to zinc content.
2. 4x4 White Ceramic Tiles
   • Inexpensive, available at Lowe's.
3. Lacquer Thinner
   • Used for cleaning tiles off fingerprints and oils.
   • Evaporates quickly.

Preparation Process

• Clean tiles using lacquer thinner.
• Spray paint tiles with a thin coat.
  • Avoid too much paint to prevent chipping.
• Allow paint to dry.
  • Suggested drying time: 1 hour.

Laser Engraving Process

• Import test tile burn settings from XTool D1 Facebook group.
• Perform a test to determine optimal laser settings:
  • Power and speed variations (e.g., 10% power at 18 mm/s and 100% power at 180 mm/s).
  • Adjust parameters for a gradient burn to find the best settings.
• Suggested optimal settings: 70% power, 72 mm/s.

Image Preparation

• Use Imgur to prep images:
  • Upload and crop image to the desired size (4x4 inches, 300 DPI).
  • Convert using Norton white tile material settings.
  • Download and prepare for laser burning.

Additional Tips

• Track and refine settings to avoid wasting tiles.
• Address common issues, such as banding, possibly caused by loose belts.

Post-Engraving Steps

• Remove excess paint to reveal the engraved image.
• Compare results using different products (e.g., Enduramark).
  • Enduramark saves time in prep and cleanup.
  • Provides detailed results.

Final Settings

• Use 90% power, 45 mm/s for both paint and Enduramark.
• Consider time investment: 60-70 minutes per tile.

Conclusion

• Encourage audience to experiment with settings and materials.
• Promo codes and Patreon information provided.
• Final remarks and engagement prompts for the audience.