Plotterize

Overview

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Plotterize.py is just like [Frosterize|Frosterize.py]. It'll take an image and create a rasterized gcode output suitable for printing with a Unicorn MK1 on your MakerBot. It has some optional configurations that will scale your design to fit in a certain area, draw a border, and to set print speed options.

The script will attempt to convert your image to black and white, though, if it's already black and white it'll just resize it.

See the Unicorn MK1 usage page for information on where to download plotterize.py and the rest of the tools. You will need Python and the PIL (Python Imaging Library)

Step 1: Get/Process an Image

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As stated in the overview, plotterize.py will attempt to automatically convert your image to a printable form. In order to help you determine what is going on, the script will output two different image files in the same directory as your original image file. The original image will not be modified in any way.

I've found QR codes work particularly well with the script. Head over to Thingiverse and grab your favorite thing's code.

Step 2: Create your GCode

Creating your GCode is pretty easy. First drag/copy your image file (.png, .bmp, .jpg, .tiff, etc.) into the folder where you have plotterize.py (it's probably called Plotterize Script).
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Next you'll want to open the command prompt/terminal and navigate to the same folder. You'll find the terminal on OSX in the Utilities folder and the command prompt on Windows by typing "cmd" into Run.
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The easiest way to navigate to the folder within the terminal window is to drag it directly into the terminal window after typing "cd ".
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Then, all you need to do is type the command:

 python plotterize.py unicorn-qrcode.png > unicorn-qrcode.gcode

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If you want to get all fancy you can specify whatever options/configurations you want. Here are a few examples:

#get a list of options and help
python plotterize.py --help

#generate gcode using standard settings
python plotterize.py image.jpg > output.gcode

#generate inverted gcode using standard settings
python plotterize.py --invert image.jpg > output.gcode

#generate gcode with custom feedrate and width
python plotterize.py --xy-feedrate=4200 --width=70 image.jpg > output.gcode

Press enter, look back at your folder, and out should pop two new image files and a gcode file. Yay!
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Step 3: Run your GCode

  1. Startup ReplicatorG (0019 or later)
  2. Open your newly created GCode
  3. Center the tip of your drawing implement in the middle of XY and just about 1mm above your build surface
  4. Click 'Build' and watch the magical Unicorn spring into action.
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