Laser-Cut Virginia Tech Campus Map

Laser-cut 3D wooden map of Virginia Tech campus

A handcrafted 3D wooden map of Virginia Tech’s campus, created as a unique Secret Santa gift. This multi-layered piece combines laser-cut Baltic birch plywood with detailed engravings of campus roads, paths, and buildings to create a striking dimensional representation of the university grounds.

Design Process

The project began with a Virginia Tech campus PDF map, which I converted into separate vector layers for the various map elements. This allowed for precise control over:

  • Building footprints for the raised 3D elements
  • Road networks and walking paths
  • Background terrain details
  • Campus boundaries and landmarks

Fabrication

Using the makerspace laser cutter in my dorm, I brought the design to life through multiple steps:

  • Base layer: Laser engraved the ground details and cut the road networks
  • Building layer: Precision cut all campus buildings from a second sheet of Baltic birch
  • Assembly: Carefully glued each building in its exact location
  • Finishing touches: Custom routed wooden frame with glass cover
  • Final detail: Etched Virginia Tech logo on the glass

Technical Details

The map was created using:

  • Baltic birch plywood for durability and clean cutting
  • Multiple laser cutter passes for varying depths
  • Vector and raster operations for different map elements
  • Custom frame routing for professional finish
  • Glass overlay for protection and added dimension

Created in 2020 as part of a Secret Santa exchange

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