--- title: Creating a Custom Shape Mouse Pad: A Step-by-Step Guide source_url: https://updating.co.za/custom-shape-mouse-pad published: 2024-01-23 17:02:24 modified: 2024-01-23 17:16:16 fetched_at: 2026-08-30T22:15:42+0200 category: training wp_site: https://updating.co.za wp_prefix: updating_co_za wp_id: 7338 wp_type: post pass: wp-mysql-sql13-digest-2026-08-30 notes: sql13 published digest; public permalink; no MySQL hosts in body. --- # Creating a Custom Shape Mouse Pad: A Step-by-Step Guide **Source:** [https://updating.co.za/custom-shape-mouse-pad](https://updating.co.za/custom-shape-mouse-pad) - published: 2024-01-23 17:02:24 - modified: 2024-01-23 17:16:16 - youtube: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBXsAgZL9OM In today's tech-savvy world, desk pads have become increasingly popular, adding a touch of personalization to workspaces. In this tutorial, we'll take you through the process of creating a designer desk pad with a [CO2 Laser Machine](https://buythis.co.za/cabinet-lasers#ai), a [FastCOLOUR Lite XP 600 Printer](https://buythis.co.za/f-1604-xp600-eco#ai) and a [Roll To Roll Heat Press](https://buythis.co.za/roller-presses#ai) using artwork from the beloved character Stitch from Lilo and Stitch. So, let's dive right into it! Watch the below video to see the process from start to finish: https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM Watch Video on YouTube: [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) **Step 1: Download and Prepare Artwork** Begin by downloading the desired artwork. In this case, it's Stitch from Lilo and Stitch. The only edits required are removing the black line at the bottom and eliminating the background. Use the eraser tool for this task, and don't forget to convert the image into a smart object. [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) **Step 2: Add a Stroke** To enhance the design, add a stroke to the image. Double-click on the layer, find the stroke option and set it to the outside with a desired size, such as 60. This creates a distinct outline around the character. We also crop the page to the size of the artwork. [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) **Step 3: Prepare for Laser Cutting** For [laser cutting](https://buythis.co.za/desktop-lasers#ai) purposes, create a red stroke for the contour. Adjust the stroke settings, ensuring it's visible. Use the Magic Wand tool to select the red stroke, right-click, and choose "layer via cut." This isolates the red stroke for laser cutting. [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) **Step 4: Align and Mark for Laser Cutting** To ensure accurate [laser cutting](https://buythis.co.za/cabinet-lasers#ai), align the artwork using rulers. Create four dots at the corners, serving as markers for the laser cutter. These markers aid in framing the artwork correctly within the [laser-cutting machine](https://buythis.co.za/cabinet-lasers#ai). Next, we export the artwork into AI to rasterise the artwork and create a dxf file for [RDWorks](https://softwaretraining.co.za/rdworks-cut-in-out-option). We also need to remove the red stroke, as if the laser is slightly off, the red stroke will be visible. **Step 5: Export for Laser Cutting** Save the artwork as a JPEG and import it into software compatible with laser cutting, such as [RDWorks](https://buythis.co.za/software#ai) Ensure that the strokes are appropriately grouped and set the cutting parameters (speed, power, etc.). **Step 6: Printing and Sublimation** For printing, use a high-quality [sublimation paper](https://buythis.co.za/sublimation-papers#ai) with a special coating that facilitates ink transfer during the sublimation process. The [printer](https://buythis.co.za/large-format-printers#ai) used here is an [XP 600](https://buythis.co.za/f-1604-xp600-eco#ai) from [AM.CO.ZA](https://am.co.za/), and the ink is a dye-based [sublimation ink](https://buythis.co.za/sublimation-inks#ai) also for sale from [AM.CO.ZA](https://am.co.za/). The sublimation process was done using a [Roll To Roll Heat Press](https://buythis.co.za/roller-presses#ai). [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) **Step 7: Sublimation Process** Now that the printing is done, we move onto the sublimation process. The material chosen is a two-part material, comprising 100% woven polyester and a tempered rubber backing that can withstand up to 300 degrees. The sublimation process involves transferring the printed image onto the material using heat. [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) **Troubleshooting Sublimation Issues** The tutorial includes common sublimation issues and their solutions. Problems like colour bursting can occur due to insufficient pressure while marbling might be caused by impurities or moisture. Techniques like rolling the material before sublimation can help mitigate these issues. [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) **Step 8: Laser Cutting the Desk Pad** Once the sublimation is done, we can move onto the [laser cutting machine](https://buythis.co.za/cabinet-lasers#ai) to cut the desk pad following the marked contour. Utilize the registration marks done in RDWorks to ensure proper framing for precise cutting. The [Laser Cutter](https://buythis.co.za/desktop-lasers#ai) ensures that the artwork is cut out with precision. The results speak for themselves! [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) [https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM](https://youtu.be/iBXsAgZL9OM) Creating a designer desk pad involves a combination of digital design, [sublimation printing](https://buythis.co.za/printers#ai), and [laser cutting](https://buythis.co.za/cabinet-lasers#ai). Despite potential challenges, the process is both creative and rewarding. We hope you enjoyed this tutorial, and stay tuned for more creative projects! Machines, Consumables and Parts Available from [https://buythis.co.za#ai](https://buythis.co.za#ai) For more info on Advanced Machinery visit [https://am.co.za/](https://am.co.za/) Chat with us by sending “hi” on Whatsapp to 060 600 6000​.