Laser Cut Orem Temple Model main photo

Laser Cut Orem Temple Model

Timeline4 weeksToolsOnshape, CorelDRAW, laser cutter, 3D printer

This scale model of the Orem Temple is built using 3/16" plywood cut into interlocking pieces. The pieces were cut and engraved with a laser cutter.

CAD Development

I built a solid body model of the Orem temple in Onshape by creating sketches on 3 orthogonal views of the building. I then used the faces of this body to create 2D panels that could interlock and be cut out of a plywood sheet.

The solid model
Single solid body model
The solid model
The final CAD assembly
Interior view showing how the pieces interlock
Interior view showing how the pieces interlock

Manufacturing and Assembly

I exported the face of each 2D panel as a DXF file and imported them into CorelDRAW for layout and laser cutting configuration. Laser cutting leaves distinct burn marks on the edges of wood pieces, so I sanded the edges and faces to remove the worst burns. I sealed the wood with an epoxy sealant to prevent corrosion.

Pieces after laser cutting
Pieces after laser cutting
Packed in a box as a gift
Packed in a box as a gift
The finished model
The finished model
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