Laser Cut Periodic Table of the Elements Board

I designed a Periodic Table setup to better display the samples I've collected over the years. It turned out well, and like any DIY project can be customized for your needs.

(1) 39 x 23in piece of MDF board, preferably extra for perfecting laser settings

(95) 3ml screwcap cosmetic containers (30 x 16mm), preferably clear base and cap for displaying samples.

Create a 38" x 22" rectangle. Distribute 2" x 2" boxes offset 1" from both sides as a guide. Remove boxes not in the standard periodic shape. Do the same with the holes (30.5 mm diameter) starting somewhere centered in the box. I chose for the center to be on the vertical axis 0.9" from the top and 1.1" from the bottom, but choose whatever looks best to you keeping in mind adding labels on Inkscape.

In Inkscape, redraw the boxes from earlier. With labeling, I chose to have the element abbreviation in the top left, atomic number in the top right, and full element name at the bottom. You could do any or none of these, for example including the atomic mass or other information.

This involved using the Troteck Engraver. I uploaded my file from Inkscape, then practiced by experimenting with settings on a smaller section. With Engraving, I selected the writing and inside grid lines. For cutting, that involved the perimeter and circles for the capsules. Once I was satisfied with the settings, I went ahead and cut the entire board out.

After leaving the board out for a day to let the burned wood smell wear off, I rested it up at a 15° angle. This provides for more optimal viewing and keeps samples laid back more, preventing them from falling out. Once set up, I then added the capsules one by one.

I'm happy about how this turned out; a good-looking display for my element collection. Next time I would consider a seperate support or two so it doesn't need the wall. I would also be more careful with the holes; I tried 30.5 and thought it was a tad snug only for them to be a bit loose with 30.75. Overall though, it was a fairly basic and rewarding project.