The Fabricator · 6 minute guide
Multi-Part Sets
Trace both grips, the slide, the top — then nest them onto one canvas and engrave them all in one matched style, in a single generation.
By Scott Bedow, Founder & Lead Developer · Published July 4, 2026 · Updated August 19, 2026
Manufacturing manager who runs CO2, diode and MOPA fiber lasers; builds and maintains every Reticle Red tool.
Method — Walked end to end in the live tool before publishing. Screens and step order match the current build; settings shown are starting points to validate on scrap.
What this tutorial covers
- Step-by-step guide to tracing every part of a firearm or product into one set folder.
- How to nest up to 24 outlines on a single canvas with the Arrange board.
- Fire once to engrave every part in a unified, matched style — not part-by-part.
- Free tier covers 5-part sets; Pro unlocks full 24-part matched runs.
1. Start a multi-part set
Open the part workflow and create a set for the pieces that must be designed together. Give each piece a useful name so its identity remains clear when you assemble the layout.
2. Trace each physical piece
Load a clear image or outline for each part and trace its engraving area. Preserve holes and cutouts, inspect the closed outline, and save the part before adding the next one.
3. Load and arrange the parts
Load the saved pieces into the Fabricator and arrange them in the intended reading order. Check orientation, spacing and every art zone before generation; the exported layout follows this arrangement.
4. Generate and inspect the whole set
Choose a compatible engine and review the run plan and displayed price before FIRE. Describe the relationship between the parts explicitly. Inspect each delivered piece and the complete layout before exporting at the measured size.
Validate the workflow on your machine
Treat the finished file as a controlled starting point, not a universal machine recipe. Confirm the artwork dimensions after import, verify focus and lens selection, and run a small test on scrap from the same material batch before committing the production piece. Change one variable at a time when tuning speed, power, frequency, line interval, or pass count. Record the machine, source wattage, lens, material finish, focus method, and final settings with the saved job. That short production note makes the result repeatable for the next operator and prevents a strong screen preview from being mistaken for a proven burn.