In LightBurn, importing graphics from an LBRN or LBRN2 project is different from opening that complete project. Use the documented Import operation when you want the artwork without its original cut settings and project-specific information, then inspect the destination layers before running a sample on A1 Mini.
A user transferring projects between computers wanted to leave the old machine’s speeds behind while retaining editable artwork. The official file-management reference describes the graphics-only behavior of importing LightBurn project files. The destination still needs its own valid setup.
Save a local receiving project first
Begin with a copy of the intended A1 Mini project and the correct device configuration. Save it under a new name before importing the artwork. Preserve the source project unchanged, so a later comparison can distinguish its original contents from your receiving setup.
Do not double-click the source project and assume you have performed an import. Opening the project restores its project context; importing its graphics is a different operation. Use the application’s documented command for the file format involved.
Inspect what landed on each output layer
| After import | Compare against | Required decision |
|---|---|---|
| Artwork width and height | Known physical reference | Correct any scale discrepancy before processing |
| Text objects | Original wording and expected editability | Resolve missing fonts or altered text representation |
| Layer assignment | Intended local operation | Confirm which objects engrave or cut |
| Output values | Approved local process for the exact blank | Do not accept unrelated defaults |
| Preview extent | Actual job area and fixture | Remove unintended output objects |
Graphics-only transfer does not mean that every receiving layer is ready for your material. It means the original project’s process information has not been adopted through that import route. The local layers may still contain values from an earlier job. Inspect every active output layer, not just the first color that appears in the artwork.
A small transfer check before the full design
Imagine receiving a project with a name on one layer and a border on another. In the destination, the border’s color may already correspond to a cutting operation from a previous job. Confirm the desired operation explicitly; the visual appearance of a thin outline does not establish whether it should be scored or cut.
Use a reference square to check imported scale if the source and destination dimensions are uncertain. Compare the actual text as well: an editable text field, outlined lettering and a bitmap require different editing methods. Do not promise to preserve editable text through an arbitrary export format.
Keep the machine process local
The A1 Mini product information describes LightBurn support, but the correct device configuration and blank-specific process still depend on the supplied setup. Follow TYVOK guidance for the selected head and validate the receiving project on a suitable spare.
Names in another interface can also conceal a mismatch: a LaserPecker depth percentage is not a physical measurement or an A1 Mini recipe. Treat the artwork as reusable design information and establish the local process independently.
Why did the imported design get unexpected settings?
Inspect the receiving project’s layers and defaults. Graphics-only import prevents carrying the source project settings through that route; it does not automatically create an approved destination process.
Can I edit the wording after importing?
That depends on how the text is stored and whether the required font is available. Check the imported object before changing the order. If it is already outlines or pixels, ask for an appropriate editable source rather than assuming the words remain a text field.