iLoveDXF

Living Hinge Generator

Design a laser-cut living hinge (kerf hinge) and export the staggered slit pattern as a DXF or SVG so flat plywood or acrylic can bend — entirely in your browser.

The sheet bends across the columns. Shorter links and tighter spacing allow a smaller bend radius.

Preview and processing stay in your browser. Sign in and use 1 credit to download or copy an output; nothing is uploaded.

Cuts

144

Columns

36

Width

120×80 mm

How it helps

Staggered straight-slit (kerf) pattern that lets flat wood or acrylic bend.
Set cut length, link width, column spacing, margin, and an optional panel border.
Bends across the columns — tighter spacing and shorter links give a smaller radius.
Export a laser-ready DXF or SVG. Each output uses 1 credit; processing is browser-local and nothing is uploaded.

Best practices

  • - Cut a small test strip first — the right link width depends on your material and thickness.
  • - Thinner material and shorter links bend tighter without snapping.
  • - Keep a margin so the hinge has solid material to attach to on each side.
  • - Run the pattern perpendicular to the direction you want the sheet to curl.

Limitations

  • - It makes the classic straight-slit kerf hinge — no wavy or torsion-spring lattices yet.
  • - There is no automatic minimum-radius calculation; test your material to confirm the bend.
  • - Very thin links can be fragile; cut a sample before committing to a full panel.

FAQ

What is a living hinge?

A living hinge is a pattern of staggered slits cut into a flat sheet so it can bend along a line without a mechanical hinge. The thin bridges between slits flex like tiny springs.

Which way does it bend?

The sheet flexes across the columns of slits. Orient the pattern so the columns run along the line you want to fold.

What materials work?

Thin plywood and acrylic are the most common. Thinner stock and shorter links bend to a tighter radius before breaking.

How do I get a tighter bend?

Reduce the link width and column spacing, or use thinner material. Always cut a test strip first.

Is anything uploaded?

No. The pattern is generated entirely in your browser. Sign-in is required only when you download or copy an output, which uses 1 credit.

Box Generator Gear Generator DXF to G-code DXF Viewer