LONGER How To: Use the Circular Array Feature in LightBurn

LONGER How To: Use the Circular Array Feature in LightBurn

ABSTRACT
The Circular Array function in LightBurn allows users to duplicate and arrange objects in a circular pattern—ideal for evenly spaced designs such as clock faces, coasters, or decorative patterns. This guide will walk you through the key steps to set up and apply this feature effectively.

CONTENTS

Step 1: Select or Create a Graphic

Step 2: Open the Circular Array Tool

Step 3: Configure Circular Array Settings

Step 4: Complete the Array

Step 5: Apply and Begin Engraving

Conclusion

Step 1: Select or Create a Graphic

Start by selecting or drawing the object you wish to arrange. This can be any shape—such as a rectangle, circle, or even a piece of text.
Open your design file in LightBurn.

Use the shape tools (e.g., Ellipse Tool, Rectangle Tool, or Text Tool) to create an object, or select an existing one from your canvas.

Step 2: Open the Circular Array Tool
With your object selected:

Locate the Array Tool on the left toolbar.
Click on Circular Array to open the array configuration panel.

Step 3: Configure Circular Array Settings
In the pop-up window, adjust the following parameters to your needs:

Copies – Set the number of duplicates you want to generate along the circle.

Start / End Angles – Define the angular range over which the copies will be distributed.
You can limit the array to a portion of the circle by entering a custom Start and End angle.

Step (Angle Offset) – Specifies the angle between each copy. This is typically calculated based on the number of copies and total angle span, but can be customized manually.

Rotate Object Copies – Toggle this option on to rotate each object so it faces the center (like the numbers on a clock), or off to maintain their original rotation.

Auto-Increment Variable Text – When using variable text, this feature offsets each copy’s value by a fixed amount, ideal for creating numbered labels or unique IDs.

Group Results – Automatically groups the resulting copies so they can be manipulated as a single unit.

Select Results – Automatically selects the newly created objects after the array is generated.

Step 4: Complete the Array

Once you’ve set all parameters:
Click OK to apply the circular array and generate the copies.
Or click Cancel to exit without creating the array.

Step 5: Apply and Begin Engraving

After creating your array:
Make any final adjustments (color, line mode, power/speed settings, etc.).
When ready, click Start to begin engraving or cutting the circular array layout.

Conclusion
The Circular Array tool in LightBurn is a powerful and intuitive way to design symmetrical, radial patterns. By mastering its parameters, you can streamline your creative process and produce complex layouts with precision and ease. Whether you're working on signage, art, or functional objects, this feature opens up a wide range of design possibilities.

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