Let’s explore how you can make this Easter egg hunt truly unforgettable with personalized 3D printed and laser engraved elements!

What are the most popular Easter activities?

When we think of Easter, four key elements immediately come to mind: colorful Easter eggs, the cheerful Easter bunny, beautifully decorated Easter baskets, and creative arts and crafts. Among these traditions, the Easter egg hunt stands as perhaps the most beloved activity, bringing excitement to children and nostalgia to adults.

But what is the purpose of the egg hunt on Easter? This tradition dates back centuries, with eggs symbolizing new life and rebirth – central themes of the spring season. The hunt itself represents the search for renewal and hidden potential. In many cultures, the egg symbolizes the empty tomb from which Jesus resurrected, making it both a secular and religious symbol of hope and new beginnings. 

What can I make for Easter crafts?

While store-bought Easter decorations are readily available, there’s endless possibilities in creating your own. When you customize your Easter egg hunt with handmade elements, you’re not just decorating – you’re crafting heirlooms that can become part of your family’s traditions for years to come. The time spent designing and creating these pieces becomes as valuable as the celebration itself, offering opportunities for family bonding and creative expression.

With access to 3D printers and laser cutters, you can now create professional-quality Easter items that perfectly match your vision. 

3D Printed Bunny Head Golf Goal

Download the files here: https://drive.google.com/drive/mobile/folders/1yqnZT6iUkw2y_o0oO4gPGqwiJHVYn8hP?usp=sharing

Transform your mini golf course with this delightful Easter-themed bunny head goal. This cleverly designed bunny face features an open mouth that serves as a challenging target for mini golf enthusiasts. The whimsical design combines holiday spirit with interactive play, making it perfect for family gatherings or community events during Easter season.

Players of all ages will enjoy attempting to putt their balls through the bunny’s mouth, adding a festive challenge to traditional mini golf. The goal can be customized with different expressions, ear lengths, or color schemes to match your event theme or personal preference.

Position multiple bunny goals throughout your course or use it as the grand finale hole for your Easter mini golf adventure.

Join the Snapmaker Mini Golf Video Challenge!

Unleash your creativity and use your Snapmaker machines to build your own mini golf course, obstacle, or accessory. Share your creation in a YouTube video with the hashtag #SnapmakerMiniGolf for a chance to win a Snapmaker Gift Card worth $500!

A “Magic Bunny Council” will judge submissions based on categories like “Most Fun Video,” “Best How To Video,” “Best use of the CNC,” “Best use of the Laser,” and “The Spring Bunny Award.” The contest runs from March 27 to April 28, 2025.

For more details, visit the Snapmaker Mini Golf Video Challenge page.

Don’t miss the Snapmaker Easter Sales happening now! Discover various promotions, including discounts, a chance to win a free printer, cashback offers, a trade-up program, and limited-time flash sales. 

Visit Snapmaker Easter Sale for more details on these exciting Easter deals.

3D Printed Luminous Bunny Egg

Brighten up your Easter celebrations with this versatile 3D-printed bunny toy! Imagine the delight of discovering this bunny filled with Easter treats during an egg hunt. Yet, the enchantment doesn’t end there. When used as a lamp, the light source within casts a beautiful glow, which playfully filters through the intricate patterned holes on the bunny’s shell. This creates a memorable and mesmerizing light effect, transforming any space with a touch of Easter wonder.

3D Printed Luminous Bunny Egg

Its unique design makes it a standout addition to your Easter decorations, a thoughtful and unique gift, or a fun and engaging toy for children.

3D Printed Easter Egg Dispenser Bunny

Take your Easter egg distribution to the next level with a functional bunny egg dispenser. This clever design features a rabbit figurine that actually “lays” chocolate eggs or small treats when activated. It’s both a decoration and an interactive toy that adds fun and whimsy to your celebration.

Easter Egg Dispenser Bunny – Set 1

Easter Egg Dispenser Bunny – Set 2

( Source of design files: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/home/easter-egg-dispenser-bunny )

Children will delight in the mechanical aspect of this creation, making it a centerpiece of your Easter activities. The dispenser can be customized with different bunny designs and scaled to accommodate various sized treats.

3D Printed Easter Egg Puzzle

Add an extra challenge to your egg hunt with 3D printed egg puzzles! This clever design features a hollow egg with rabbit silhouettes carved into the shell, paired with corresponding colorful bunny pieces that fit perfectly into each opening. 

This type of puzzle transforms the traditional egg hunt into a more engaging activity that exercises problem-solving skills and fine motor coordination. Children will delight in matching each colorful bunny to its corresponding silhouette on the egg.

3D Printed Easter Egg Puzzle

( Source of design files: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/game/hintech-easter-egg-puzzle )

You can also vary the themes – instead of bunnies, you might create puzzles featuring spring flowers, chicks, or other Easter symbols.

Laser Cut Wood Decorative Easter Egg Stand

Once the hunt is over, display your most beautiful eggs on custom laser-cut stands. These decorative pieces showcase eggs of all sizes, from tiny quail eggs to large goose eggs or their artificial counterparts. The stands can be designed with spring themes like flowers, rabbits, or abstract patterns that complement your home décor.

Laser Cut Wood Decorative Easter Egg Stand – Set 1

Laser Cut Wood Decorative Easter Egg Stand – Set 2

( Source of design files: https://3axis.co/laser-cut-wood-decorative-easter-egg-stand-cdr-file/eoxlqvqo/)

These stands transform ordinary eggs into works of art, creating centerpieces for your Easter table or decorative touches throughout your home. The versatility of laser cutting allows for multiple design options, from minimalist modern stands to ornate traditional displays.

Laser Cut Layered Easter Egg Decor

For a truly spectacular decoration, layered Easter egg designs bring dimension and visual interest to your Easter décor. These multi-piece constructions use several sheets of wood cut in complementary patterns that, when assembled, create a three-dimensional egg with incredible depth and detail.

Laser Cut Layered Easter Egg Decor

( Source of design files: https://3axis.co/laser-cut-layered-easter-egg-decor-cdr-file/e1gkdl8o/ )

These standout decorations can serve as wall hangings, table centerpieces, or special prizes for egg hunt winners. The layered construction catches light in fascinating ways, creating shadows and highlights that change throughout the day. 

Final Words

The beauty of these maker projects lies not just in their appearance, but in the personal connection forged through their creation. Each item represents time spent crafting something special for loved ones – a gesture that embodies the spirit of Easter itself: renewal, hope, and the celebration of life’s precious moments.

This Easter, ditch the generic decorations and embrace the joy of DIY, with our versatile 3-in-1 machine. 

The post DIY Arts and Crafts for a Personalized Easter Egg Hunt (3D Printed & Laser Cut) appeared first on | Blog.

Define Your Workshop’s Purpose

Determine what projects you plan on doing: Before you go ahead with building a workshop, you have to decide which projects you’ll be undertaking: woodworking, metalworking, electronics, crafts, repairing things, or a 3-in-1 combination?

For example, a woodworker will prioritize space for larger tools and dust collection, while an electronics hobbyist will need a clean, well-lit area with good ventilation for soldering. The purpose will dictate the tools, equipment, and space requirements, forming the foundation of your plan.

Assess Your Available Space

Choose a suitable location for your workshop setup based on available space in your home. Common options include:

Location Options:

• Workshop in Garage: Roomy but may need to share space with vehicles.
• Basement: Cool, but may need extra lighting and dehumidification.
• Shed or Outbuilding: Private space, but may need power and insulation.
• Spare Room: Convenient but requires noise and dust control.

Measure the Space:

Carefully measure the area; take flooring, walls, lighting, electrical outlets, and ventilation into account. This will help you plan an appropriate layout that maximizes work and efficiency.

Evaluate Existing Features:

• Flooring: Concrete, wood, or other? Choose flooring that is durable and easy to upkeep.
• Walls: Are they finished? Think about insulation and wall coverings for durability and sound dampening.
• Lighting: Any existing lighting may be inadequate. Plan for the task and ambient lighting.
• Electrical Outlets: Will there be enough outlets, and will they be in convenient locations? Will handling power tools require adding outlets and perhaps circuits?
• Ventilation: Is there natural ventilation (windows, doors)? You may need to add mechanical ventilation, especially for dust and fumes.

Budget and Schedule

• Set a Budget: Determine your overall investment and how much you’ll spend initially. Gradual setup is budget-friendly.
• Prioritize Essentials: Focus on core tools and safety gear aligned with your workshop goals (workbench, hand tools, lighting, essential power tools).
• Consider Used Tools: Explore used markets for significant savings, especially larger equipment.
• Phase Purchases: Start with essentials and expand gradually as your skills and budget grow. This allows for manageable spending and refinement of your needs over time.

Design the Workshop Layout

This section will help you plan your home workshop layout and select the right items for functional and efficient workspace use. Good planning at this stage will greatly enhance your workshop experience. 

1. Defining Work Zones

To maximize efficiency and organization, divide your small workshop layout into distinct functional areas based on your workflow. Common work zones include:

• Assembly/Workbench Area: Consider this central space for general tasks, hand tool work, and project assembly. It should be spacious and well-lighted.
• Machine Area: Provide space for heavy power tools, 3D printers, laser engravers, jointers, and drill presses. Add important safety clearances around the machinery.
• Finishing Area: Ideally, this is a separate, well-ventilated place where paints, stains, and other finishes are applied.
• Dedicated space for storing tools, project supplies, and consumables. An efficient storage arrangement keeps the workspace clean and the tools readily available.
• Material Storage: Plan for storing raw materials like lumber, metal stock, or other project-specific materials. Consider vertical storage solutions for long items.
• Clean-up Area: Make an area available for dust collection, waste disposal, and cleaning supplies. This will help to ensure a safe and healthy workshop environment.

Workbench – The Central Hub:

• Workbench Placement: Position your workbench strategically. Central position works, but consider placing it where it supports your main workflow best while getting good light.
• Workbench Features: Choose a workbench that best meets your projects:
  • Sturdy Construction: A solid, stable workbench is necessary for many workshop tasks.
  • Appropriate Size and Height: Choose a size that fits your space while giving lots of working surface. The workbench’s height must be comfortable for you to work on for extended periods.
  • Vises and Dog Holes: Certain projects will require clamping workpieces, so consider distinguishing a section of the table with vises for this purpose, or if using a universal approach, you will want to include dog holes for work-holding with universal accessories.

2. Optimizing Workflow and Safety

● Workflow and Traffic Flow: Arrange your work zones to create a logical flow for your projects. Minimize unnecessary movement between zones. Consider how materials will move through your workshop from storage to completion.

● Safety Zones and Clearances: First, ensure adequate areas for the operation of machinery and movement around machinery, and then keep walking spaces clear of such objects to avoid accidental falls. 

3. Tool Placement and Storage

• Tool Storage Place. Keep hand and measuring tools frequently used within reach and accessible with locations at major work zones, especially at the workbench. 
• Tool Storage: Keeping tools organized, safe, and readily available can be accomplished in several ways.
  • Wall Shelving: It can accommodate project boxes and less frequent tools with vertical storage of materials by wall-mounted shelves. 
  • Freestanding Shelf Units: Freestanding shelves can be moved fairly easily, accommodating any changes made in the workshop. 
  • Lumber Racks: Essential for long lumber or metal stock to be stored vertically, saving floor space. 
  • Cabinets (Base and Wall): An enclosed store keeps tools from dust and presents a neat appearance in the workshop. Wall cabinets are the best for eye-level access. 
  • Drawers: It is suitable for arranging small hand tools, hardware (screws, nails, etc.), as well as measuring or marking tools. 
  • Tool Organizers: For organizing tools, pegboards, magnetic tool holders, toolboxes, and drawer organizers could be employed to maximize efficiency.
  • Mobile Tool Carts. Carts provide storage that attaches to wheels and rolls from shop to project, allowing the user to keep the tools of interest close at hand. 

Incorporate Safety Measures

Lighting

• Ambient Lighting: Direct overhead lights that will light the whole workshop area (fluorescent or LED shop lights are fairly common). 
• Task Lighting: Adjustable lamps or directed lights focused on working areas like the workbench and machinery. 
• Natural Light: Maximize the amount of natural light coming in with regard to windows, which also includes glare control.

Power and Electrical

• Adequate Outlets: Install enough outlets at smart places around the workshop, including workbenches and machinery. 
• Dedicated Circuits: It could be useful to think of dedicated circuits for power-hungry tools to prevent them from being overloaded. 
• Heavy-Duty Extension Cords And Power Strips: Heavy-duty extension cords and power strips must be used for operation and should provide surge protection. 
• Three-phase Power: Three-phase power must be considered if dense industrial machines are going to be used, but that rarely happens in a home shop. Please consult with an electrician if necessary. 

Dust Collection and Ventilation

• Shop Vac: For cleaning around the shop and connecting to power tools. Dust Collectors: For larger woodworking machines such as table saws and planers. These could also be central dust collection systems or portable dust collectors. 
• Natural Ventilation: Use windows and doors as purveyors of air into and out of the building space. 
• Exhaust Fan: An exhaust fan can handle any dust, fumes, or odors, especially in polishing areas. 
• Cross Ventilation: Provide inlets and outlets to enhance airflow movement across the range.

Safety Equipment

• Safety Glasses/Goggles: Always eye protection is a must in any workspace. 
• Hearing Protection: Earmuffs or plugs are a good way to protect against loud power tools’ damaging sounds. 
• Respirators or Dust Masks: Wear these while sanding or finishing to protect against dust and fumes. 
• Work Gloves: Protects hands from cuts, abrasion, and chemicals. 
• First Aid Kit: This should always be present in the workstation, and the first-aid kit should be fully stocked. 
• Fire Extinguisher: The standard requirements of an ABC fire extinguisher will be installed and positioned in an area for easy access. 

Key Takeaways

All the steps mentioned above, including purpose, selecting an area, creating a layout for the woodworking shop design, and safety, will make a complete plan for your small workshop. This approach covers all the critical parameters and gives you a space ready to apply your projects.

The post How to Set Up a Workshop appeared first on | Blog.

So, what did they make?

Real Car Parts. Model Cars. Automotive Artwork.

Let’s take a look:

Meet the Master

Sponsored Teams

Schumacher CLRT

Snapmaker gifted the team a Snapmaker Artisan Premium, a J1s, and large quantities of TPU, ABS, Nylon, PVA, and other specialized materials to give them everything they need to blaze a trail across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia!

And how’d it go? They took home the Porsche Super Cup and the Carrera Cup France! They also made an appearance at the Macau Grand Prix, where the Snapmaker Team, which gave us the opportunity to meet the team in person. You can watch the video here.

Every single day, Schumacher CLRT uses 3D printed parts on their cars.

3D printing allows Schumacher CLRT to replace some of their heavier metal tools and parts with lightweight alternatives. It lets them produce intricate and unique parts that simply aren’t available from traditional suppliers. The CNC and Laser functions allow for even more capabilities, like making subtactive adjustments to various pieces and adding customizations across the car.

In the photo set below, you can see a wide range of specialized fasteners, adapters, caps, unique tools, custom mounting solutions, and all manner of precision parts specially designed to make the most out of their Porsche 992 GT3 Cup, 992 GT3R and 991 GT+ Rally Cars.

Team Solaris

Team Solaris is a Solar Car Racing team from Dokuz Eylul University in Turkey. Specializing in electronics engineering, the team used the Snapmaker J1s and A250 to build PCB Boards, aerodynamic surfaces, and other specialized parts for their cars. This past fall, they took their S11 Solar Car to South Africa to take part in the Sasol Solar Challenge!

Here we’ll link to Solaris’ Instagram video where they show off how they used the Snapmaker A250 to build custom PCBs. By designing their own electronics hardware, Solaris has maximum control over their cars’ performance, efficiency, and weight.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Solar Team Solaris (@solarteamsolaris)

Here we can see Solaris testing their car in a virtual wind tunnel, which allows them to simulate real world modifications to the car’s body structure. With the new design set up in the digital world, they use their J1s to print the required parts, and then install them!

This is the heart of Maker Culture – thinking, designing, building, and implementing.

And in this video we can see Solaris testing their machines, building models and novelty name plates to celebrate our collaboration!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Solar Team Solaris (@solarteamsolaris)

Everidge Racing

Cassten Everidge took his his heavily modified Chevrolet SS all over the American Midwest in a series of intense stock car races – with the help of the Snapmaker Artisan Premium.

In this video, we can see him using the machine in some of his off-season projects:

Check out more from Cassten on his website, including this story from the Winchester Speedway!

ATTACKER!

ATTACKER! is an EV racing team from Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, making full use of the Snapmaker Artisan Premium’s 3-in-1 capabilities to build custom parts for their racer. This past October, they took their racer to the NIO Cup in Hefei, China.

ATTACKER! used the CNC function to build special mounting brackets for the battery cooling system – while you can special order these custom parts for delivery, it was a lot faster to simply cut them out of aluminum on-site. 3D Printing was used extensively for molds for the car’s air ducts, battery box cover, and other assorted pieces. Finally, Snapmaker’s laser was perfect for building custom PCBs.

Let’s see the car in action here:

RC Cars

Snapmaker is a top choice for RC Hobby enthusiasts, including our friends Hemistorm RC, RCSparks, Soarpix3D, and more!

For Accelerate with Snapmaker, we partenered with Mr. Goodcat to produce this video on the Koenigsegg Jesko:

You can find the Car Body here: https://cults3d.com/en/3d-model/various/porsche-911-992-gt3-rc-car

And the RC Car Chassis here: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4892947

Also, we highly recommend watching Mr. Goodcat’s How To Video that he put together for another project on a Porsche 911:

And for an example of some of the amazing (non-RC) Model Cars our friends have built with Snapmaker, check out Duke Doks’ Back to the Future Delorean:

Hot Pursuit!

As part of Accelerate with Snapmaker, we launched a video contest, challenging Snapmakers to build real car parts, automotive artwork, and model cars – with a prize of $911!

You can check out all entries through the playlist here (the embedded video shows only the first entry but Watch on YouTube and you can see the whole list):

Or jump straight into the winner’s circle:

Auto Art Award: @ Whiskyclubcanada

Model Car Winner: @ BerndMichalak

Real Car Part Winner: @ Alin_3196

Stay Tuned for Accelerate with Snapmaker 2025!

Sincerely,

The Snapmaker Pit Crew

The post Accelerate with Snapmaker appeared first on | Blog.

Join me as we explore the exciting world of laser engraving metal! We’ll discuss how various laser technologies, particularly diode lasers, are making metal marking more approachable and enjoyable than ever. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a small business owner, or a creative DIYer, diode lasers are a fantastic choice for bringing your metal projects to vibrant life!

Laser Engraving Metal: The Basics

When discussing laser engraving metal, it’s important to understand the key factors at play. Not all lasers are created equal, and their ability to work with metal varies based on a few crucial elements:

Laser Wavelength

Laser wavelength is key for metal engraving. 

• Diode lasers (~450nm, blue light): Excellent for marked and coated metals
• Fiber lasers (~1064nm, near-infrared): Industrial standard for metal engraving
• CO2 lasers (~10,600nm, far-infrared): Less effective on bare metals

Metals generally absorb shorter wavelengths more effectively, which explains why fiber and diode lasers excel in metal applications. This absorption rate directly influences the marking quality and efficiency. 

Metal Properties

Reflective metals like bare aluminum and stainless steel bounce laser energy away, making them challenging. Coated metals offer a solution because coatings can be designed to absorb laser energy more readily, improving marking potential, especially for diode lasers.

Surface Preparation

Coatings are crucial for diode lasers to mark metal. Metal marking sprays/pastes, like thermochromic types, are specifically formulated to absorb diode laser wavelengths.

How coatings enable diode lasers:

1. Boost Absorption: Coatings readily absorb diode laser energy.
2. Heat Transfer: Absorbed energy heats the coating, which transfers heat to the metal surface.
3. Surface Reaction: Heat triggers a reaction (oxidation, etc.) on the metal, creating a visible mark.
4. Surface Marking, Not Deep Engraving: Diode lasers with coatings primarily achieve surface marking, not deep material removal like fiber lasers.

Laser Etching vs. Engraving vs. Cutting on Metal

Laser Marking / Etching (Surface Level)

This is often what diode and CO2 lasers accomplish on metal surfaces, especially with coatings. It involves altering the metal’s surface appearance, creating:

• Color Change: The laser energy causes a chemical or thermal reaction on the surface, leading to a visible color change in the coating or the metal itself (oxidation in some cases). 
• Slight Texture Change: The laser might subtly melt or vaporize the very top layer, resulting in a change in surface texture, often creating a matte or slightly raised effect.

Laser Engraving (Material Removal)

This is where powerful lasers like diode and fiber lasers take center stage. True laser engraving involves:

• Creating Depth: The laser removes a measurable amount of material from the metal surface, creating a physical indentation. 
• Tactile Marks: The resulting mark is not just visual but also tactile – you can feel the engraving.
• Durability: Engravings are deeply embedded in the material, making them highly durable and resistant to wear.

Laser Cutting (Penetration)

For cutting completely through metal, you need significant laser power, primarily from Fiber lasers.

• Full Material Separation: The laser severs the metal, creating shapes and outlines. 
• Not Typically Achieved by Diode Lasers: Consumer-grade diode lasers generally lack the power to cut through thicker metals.

Why Diode Laser Engravers Excel for Metal

While Fiber lasers are the champions of deep metal engraving and cutting, diode laser engravers carve out a valuable niche in metal marking, especially when you leverage their strengths effectively. Here’s why diode lasers are an excellent choice for many metal projects:

• Affordability: Diode lasers are much cheaper than Fiber or CO2 systems, making metal marking accessible to hobbyists, small businesses, and DIY enthusiasts.
• Versatility: Diode lasers aren’t just limited to metal marking. They can handle a wide range of other materials like wood, acrylic, leather, paper, fabric, and more. This multi-functionality makes them a fantastic all-in-one tool for creators who work with diverse materials. 
• Ease of Use: Compared to complex industrial laser machines, diode lasers are relatively simple to learn and operate, making them ideal for beginners and those who value ease of use.
• The Key Limitation & The Smart Solution: It’s true that diode lasers aren’t designed to directly engrave bare, reflective metals deeply. However, using coatings like thermochromic spray allows the surface to absorb diode laser energy, enabling beautiful, permanent markings on coated metals.

Creative Applications of Diode Lasers on Metal

Diode lasers, when paired with smart techniques, open up exciting creative possibilities for metal marking:

• Personalized Gifts: Create custom dog tags, keychains, and metal business cards with names, dates, or special messages on coated metals or anodized aluminum.
• Industrial Part Labeling: Add serial numbers, QR codes, and logos to powder-coated or painted metal parts for identification and branding.
• Art and Décor: Design unique engraved metal signs, ornaments, and jewelry pieces using coated metal blanks and your diode laser’s precision.

If you’re a multitasking maker, Snapmaker Artisan is highly recommended for its versatility and flexible setup. Artisan isn’t just a laser engraver—it’s a 3D printer, CNC carver, and laser engraver in one. You can switch from engraving to 3D printing or CNC carving in minutes for metal engraving, prototyping, and custom fabrication.

What if you want to engrave bare metals like stainless steel, copper, or titanium without sprays or coatings? In this case, the Artisan machine’s real magic for metal comes into play. Its compatibility with the 1064nm Infrared Laser Module allows for direct interaction with these metals—eliminating the need for any coatings. Here is the latest list of the supported metals:

• Common Metals: Stainless steel, aluminum, copper, titanium.
• Precious Metals: Gold, silver.
• Industrial Materials: SPTE (steel plate), tinplate, painted metals.

Conclusion

Can you laser engrave metal? Yes! Diode lasers are an excellent and accessible choice for metal marking. While not meant for heavy-duty cutting or deep engraving of bare metals (that’s where Fiber lasers shine), diode lasers allow creators to achieve impressive results on coated metals and anodized aluminum.

Explore Snapmaker’s Artisan and Infrared Laser Module! These professional-grade tools enable you to work smarter—and bolder—on metals.

Always prioritize safety and follow guidelines when using laser engravers.

The post Can You Laser Engrave Metal?  appeared first on | Blog.

However, it’s very easy to burn the wood in the process, which you can remove easily with a few tricks, but you can avoid them altogether with the help of borax and baking soda. There is a whole science behind this cheap hack that will save you from expensive losses, so if you want to learn how to use baking soda and borax properly to darken wood then keep reading.

Table of Contents

• Baking Soda & Borax Laser Engraving on Wood
• General How-to for Darkening Laser Engravings on Wood
• How to Use Borax for Laser Engraving on Wood
• How to Use Baking Soda for Laser Engraving on Wood
• Borax vs. Baking Soda for Laser Engraving
• Important Considerations
• Conclusion

Baking Soda & Borax Laser Engraving on Wood

Baking soda is considered to be milder than borax and has more subtle darkening. The chemical compound breaks under the laser heat, turning to sodium bicarbonate that reacts with the natural pigments on the wood. The process is completed without burning the surface, as sodium carbonate helps distribute the heat evenly over the surface without concentrating on a particular spot.

Sodium borate or borax becomes an entirely different compound under the heat from the laser, turning to sodium oxide and boron oxide. Although it has some protective capabilities, boron oxide reduces the melting or, in this case, the burning point of the wood and allows the laser to darken the wood faster, even with lower power.

The dark and light contrasts in the wood give an enhanced result with greater depths and more definition in your engraving while preventing burning. 

General How-to for Darkening Laser Engravings on Wood

How to Use Borax for Laser Engraving on Wood

Since borax is more reactive, you must be careful when performing this method.

Step 1. Prepare the Borax Solution

You can’t apply the substance directly onto the surface because it won’t work. Mix a tablespoon of borax in 400ml of water and set it aside.

Step 2. Apply the Borax Solution to the Wood

How you choose to apply the solution will also affect the engraving. For example, if you use a spray, it will create a thin, even layer on the wood, allowing for a smoother transition, making the option great for large-scale projects.

However, if you want more detail than a thicker layer, a sponge or brush will help you achieve the desired effect and allow for more precision.

No matter your chosen method, ensure that the area you want engraved is well-coated in the solution.

Step 3. Allow the Wood to Dry Completely

If you start engraving while the surface is still wet, the precision will be reduced due to the uneven layer of the borax. The water will also act as a buffer, not allowing the compound to have its complete effect.

The solution doesn’t take that long to dry, usually around 20-30 minutes at most. You can speed up the process with the help of fans or heat guns, but you don’t get it too close since it can scorch the surface.

Step 4. Laser Engrave Your Design

Proceed with the design as you normally would but start with lower heat and power to be safer as borax can speed up the heating. You can also test an easy design on a cheaper scrap of wood treated with a borax solution, to get an idea of how you should proceed.

It is possible to darken the wood without the borax solution, but the effect will be in different shades of brown, rather than the black you can achieve using this method.

Step 5. Address Potential Smearing (Optional but Recommended)

Borax treatment can sometimes cause smearing of the engraved image. To prevent this, immediately after engraving, apply a coat of clear lacquer spray. This will quickly seal the surface and prevent smudging. Some laser engraving modules are designed with air assist, which helps achieve cleaner cuts.

If your image has been smeared during engraving, you can try to save it. Wipe off the residue gently with a brush before applying a coat of lacquer to prevent further smearing.

Step 6. Seal the Engraving (Highly Recommended)

Want the ultimate professional effect? Then don’t forget to seal the engraving with a durable finishing coat of clear varnish, preferably polyurethane for long-lasting results.

Avoid using oil-based varnishes since they can increase the smudging.

Final Result:

Laser engraving with a borax solution will take the contrasts a step further, with the deep blacks and lighter wood, resulting in professional-looking engravings without much power.

How to Use Baking Soda for Laser Engraving on Wood

The method of using baking soda is similar to the borax solution.

Step 1. Prepare the Baking Soda Solution

Since baking soda is milder than borax, the solution will be more concentrated, where you will use a tablespoon of baking soda in 160 ml of water, and dissolve it completely before pouring it into a spray bottle for easy application.

Step 2. Prepare the Wood

The surface of the wood should be clean and sanded before you apply the baking soda, for it to work effectively. 

As you are using a spray bottle to coat the surface, spread paper onto unwanted areas that you don’t want to get affected by the heating.

Step 3. Apply the Baking Soda Solution

Spray the baking soda over the wood in an even layer and let it dry completely before you start engraving.

A wet solution layer is likely to be more uneven, resulting in irregularities and smudging of your engraving. 

Step 4. Laser Engrave Your Design

The next steps are pretty simple, where you prepare the design as you do normally and place the wood into the machine. Snapmaker Ray features laser focusing, which allows you to easily finish the calibration within 3 steps.

However, you might need to pay attention to the settings according to the design and the type of wood you choose since the baking soda reduces the temperature at which the laser darkens the wood. 

Step 5. Clean the Engraved Wood

Not all baking soda is turned to sodium bicarbonate; some is left on the surface and hardens, leaving a white residue on the design, dampening the contrast.

Therefore, it is important to clean the engraved wood, after you are done with the process. This is pretty easy to do since the residue is mostly powder or soot that you can wipe off with a brush or a damp cloth.

Borax vs. Baking Soda for Laser Engraving

Important Considerations

Baking soda is relatively safe, but you might want to be more careful while using borax since it’s stronger and releases toxic fumes under the laser.

You can also test drive the two compounds on scrap wood before proceeding to your real project which will give you a better idea of how to work with the chemicals.

Both baking soda and borax are great for darkening wood. However, they may not be very effective on other materials like metal or glass, so you might want to reconsider using either of the chemicals on them.

Conclusion

Using baking soda or borax laser engraving is a sure way to upgrade the final look of your projects with the contrasts that give it more depth and definition.

If you are a beginner but still want to incorporate the light and dark effect on your engraving, you can start with baking soda since it’s milder and easier to work with. However, borax has a deeper contrast that seasoned woodworkers can easily work with.

Both methods improve your art, so don’t be afraid to try them and choose the one that works best for you.

The post How to Darken Laser Engraving on Wood: Baking Soda and Borax appeared first on | Blog.

Whether it’s wood, plastic, metal, glass, or leather, laser engraving machines deliver. Want the ultimate logo for your brand or the best gift for your buddy? Laser engraving will provide a quick save. 

However, the choice of material matters a lot in the type of product you are going for since the process and the result are going to differ for each one.

Wood

Wood is quite an easy material to work with for laser engraving. The method comes as one of the leading choices among woodworkers due to its ease, where you can create the most organic prototypes, photo-engravings, inlays, and decoration pieces in a matter of seconds. 

You also need to take care of the type of wood you choose, considering the kind of product you are working on. If it’s a high-end product, maple, cherry, and walnut wood provide the best quality, but plywood and MDF are wiser choices if they are large-scale production.

Acrylic

You can create the most versatile products with laser engraving on acrylic. The layers in the material allow room for different textures, like frosting or a multicolor effect, while giving precise results on the exterior with clean cuts and sharp edges perfect for creating awards and decorative items.

The properties of acrylic align perfectly with the laser engraving method, giving you a consistent set of results each time that you can actively rely on.

Leather

Leather goods make major use of laser engraving methods for personalized gifts with patches and adding details on bags and wallets. Both vegetable-tanned and natural leather make good options for engraving. However, you should avoid synthetic leather if you want to maintain quality and ensure the safety of you and your machine. 

Metals

Laser engraving works on almost all materials, including metals. It’s especially effective on Aluminum 6061 and Brass H62, creating long-lasting, durable designs. Aluminum 6061 is a popular alloy known for being strong, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for various applications. Brass H62, conversely, is a high-quality brass alloy composed of copper and zinc. Its golden hue and excellent malleability make it a great choice for engraving intricate details.

Plastics

Plastics are usually the easiest material when it comes to laser engraving. Not only is it great for marking but also for sculpting, where you can mold the material into different shapes, allowing you to make cost-effective prototypes as well as customized gifts owing to its flexibility.

Avoid using PVC for laser engraving since it can result in toxic fumes and destroy the metallic components within your laser in just a few days. Acrylic is the best type of plastic you can use for your products due to its durability and versatility, allowing it to withstand the pressure of the method while yielding quality goods for your business.

Fabric and Paper

Laser engraving has opened a whole new dimension in the world of fashion. It has made designs more durable and strengthened fabrics by preventing fraying. No wonder it is one of the largest growing markets in the industry, where it works on different materials, including cotton and felt, to create varying textures like distressed and aesthetic vibes, extremely popular in today’s trends.

The same goes for paper, where the design is embossed onto the material rather than just laying on the surface, as the case is with printing, in which the design can seem superficial. Laser engraving on paper is also more precise and sustainable than printing, making it an excellent alternative for crafting custom packaging and invitations.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Laser Engraving Materials

Suppose you’re using a diode laser for engraving. In that case, materials like wood and leather are good choices since the wavelength of a semi-conductor is well-suited for these organic substances, allowing for precise and detailed engravings. For acrylic, while diode lasers can work, results might vary based on the specific type and color of the acrylic, so some experimentation might be necessary. 

Metal is also extremely reflective during the process, so it’s best to wear safety goggles while ensuring the working area is well-ventilated for both kinds of material to prevent the build-up of toxic fumes.

Also, consider your budget before going for the material and the product you are manufacturing to avoid things getting out of hand. 

Conclusion: Choose the Right Material

Laser engraving is a versatile method for designing and engraving on all kinds of material. It can work well with durable steel just as well as it can work it glass and paper. 

All you need to make sure is that you have the settings under control and you are using the right kind of laser for the material.

Choosing the right laser engraving material is just the first step—having a reliable engraver makes all the difference. With Snapmaker’s 3-in-1 3D printer and its powerful laser modules, you can engrave on dozens of materials effortlessly. Explore Snapmaker today and bring your creative ideas to life!

The post Laser Engraving Materials: Choosing the Right One for Your Project appeared first on | Blog.

Accelerate with Snapmaker

This year, we sponsored Schumacher CLRT, a Porsche Racing Team, who made the most of the Artisan and J1s, using 3D Printed, Laser Cut, and CNC’d part to dominate races all over the world, from Spain to Italy to Macau to Saudi Arabia.

This wasn’t the only team we sponsored as part of Accelerate with Snapmaker – find out more here.

Snapmaker Supercharged Cinema

Check out these projects from our friends all over YouTube! Whether its building a special tool missing from your workshop, putting together the ultimate trap to catch Santa, or building a time-traveling Delorean, Snapmaker’s 3-in-1 machines make it possible.

Unleash the SnapDryer

At Formnext 2024, we unveiled our first collaboration with PolyMaker, the SnapDryer.

• Dry and store your 3D filament in one solution with this modular design. Say goodbye to your filament’s moisture, and hello to your project’s creativity!
• Buy it here!

Key Products

1064nm Infrared Laser Module

Released in the Spring of 2024, the 1064nm Laser Module unlocks a whole new set of ultra-fine, precision engraving capabilities to your Snapmaker machine.

• Find out more here.
• Buy it Here!

Artisan Premium 3-in-1 3D Printer

In June we released the Snapmaker Artisan Premium, the Ultimate 3-in-1 Machine. It comes with a dual extrustion 3D Printer Module, a powerful 40W Laser, and a 200W CNC Module, with a massive 400mm³ workspace.

Supercharged Software

Upgrade to Snapmaker Orca

Snapmaker users have been asking for official support for their 3rd party integrations for a long time – you asked, we delivered.

• Join the Beta here.
• Dive into the details on the Snapmaker Wiki
• Support: https://snapmaker.formcrafts.com/support-ticket
• Join the Discussion: https://forum.snapmaker.com/t/snapmaker-orca-v1-1-0-beta-issues-report-discussions/38235/5

Videos Galore!

Big Contests, Bigger Prizes

In 2024, we started running regular Snapmaker Video Contests, kicking it off with Winter Wonderland (okay, technically that started in 2023), and developing this into a new contest every month or two!

Prizes ranged from free Snapmaker products to mega cash prizes, up to $1225 USD for the Home Alone Video Contest!

Click on one of the tiles above to check out the contest and view the video gallery of submissions!

Or check out the playlists on YouTube.

Vertical Videos

In 2024 we had the pleasure of launching our Short Video Project, a little behind-the-scenes effort to dramatically increase the number of short videos we post. These videos come from our in-house graphics team, user generated content, and external professional studios.

Follow our accounts!

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/snapmakerinc/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Snapmaker/shorts
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@snapmaker_global
• RedNote (小红书): @snapmaker

8th Anniversary Maker-a-Thon

June 1st was Snapmaker’s 8th Anniversary, so we held our annual Maker-a-Thon. 10 Teams, 10 Projects, 1 Big Party.

You can check out our Blog Post here: https://www.snapmaker.com/blog/8-years-of-playing-well-join-the-celebration-with-play-well-makerathon-artisan-premium-launch-and-more/

And make sure to download your Snapmaker Mini 3D Printable Models here! https://wiki.snapmaker.com/en/important_installation_tips_for_mini_snapmaker_models

Here’s to Snapmaker: Year 9!

Sincerely,

The Snapmaker Team

The post Snapmaker 2024: In The Rear View Mirror appeared first on | Blog.

In this blog, we’ll explore everything you need to know about laser burn marks: what causes them, how to prevent them, and most importantly, proven techniques to remove them when they’re not part of your design. 

What Causes Laser Burn Marks

When a laser beam interacts with wood, it generates intense heat that burns or vaporizes the material. This process leaves burn marks ranging from light smoke residue to deep charring. While some artists leave marks intentionally for creative effect, they are generally unwelcome imperfections that detract from the look of the work.

Several factors influence the severity of burn marks:

Wood Properties

• Denser woods burn more slowly meanwhile creating deeper marks.
• Moisture-rich woods burn in irregular patterns.
• Straight grain produces a uniform burn pattern and is easier to remove, while irregular grain produces an uneven burn.
• Wood with a high resin content (pine) is prone to scorching.

Laser Parameters (power, speed, focus, frequency)

• Power settings regulate energy delivery over time, where increased power leads to deeper cuts or darker engravings.
• Cutting speed affects the exposure time (dwell time). Higher speeds produce less energy delivered to each point, leading to shallower cuts or lighter engravings.
• The laser beam is focused on a small spot to concentrate its energy. Focus accuracy impacts burn precision.  
• Frequency settings influence heat distribution. The lower the frequency, the wider and more dispersed the marks. (Note: Not all diode lasers offer adjustable frequency.)

Tips: Any material that absorbs laser energy and generates heat can develop burn marks.

Removal: Get Rid of Laser Burn Marks

Before starting, prioritize safety. Wear laser safety goggles and a dust mask, and work in a well-ventilated area. Enclosing the laser machine with a dark cover is recommended.

Removing Light Burn Marks (Surface Smoke/Light Charring)

These are the easiest to remove. They appear as a light discoloration or smoky residue on the wood surface.

Gentle Cleaning:

• Utilize a soft or microfiber cloth moistened with a mild soap and water solution.
• Carefully scrub the targeted area using circular motions.
• Rinse with a clean damp cloth and ensure it is thoroughly dried.

Erasers:

• Utilize an art gum eraser or a magic eraser. 
• Carefully rub the burn mark with short, back-and-forth strokes. 
• Wipe away any residue left by the eraser.

Removing Medium Burn Marks (Noticeable Darkening)

These burns penetrate slightly deeper into the wood, causing a more pronounced darkening.

Sanding:

• Start with 180-220 grit sandpaper.
• Sand along the grain direction.
• Move to finer grits, up to 400.
• Apply consistent pressure throughout

Staining/Finishing:

• Choose a wood stain that closely resembles the original wood color. 
• Apply the stain uniformly to the sanded surface, adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines. 
• Finish with a clear coat (such as varnish or polyurethane) to safeguard the wood and ensure the repaired area blends seamlessly.

Wood Filler (Optional):

• For a burn that is a bit deeper, apply wood filler to fill in the gap before sanding and finishing. 
• Select a wood filler that is suitable for staining or painting. 
• Ensure the filler is fully dry prior to sanding.

Removing Deep Burn Marks (Significant Charing/Structural Impact)

These are the most challenging burns to remove and may leave a visible scar. The wood’s structure might be affected.

Rotary Tool/Carving Tools:

• To gently eliminate the heavily charred wood, use a rotary tool equipped with a sanding drum or a small carving tool. Take great care not to strip away excessive material. 
• Always wear safety glasses and a dust mask.

Sanding:

• Once you’ve taken off most of the burn, sand the area to create a smooth finish that matches the surrounding wood. Begin with a coarse grit and progressively switch to finer grits.

Wood Filler/Epoxy:

• Utilize wood filler or epoxy resin to fill the created cavity. Epoxy is typically a superior option for more extensive or deeper repairs. 
• For epoxy, think about adding a colored pigment to blend with the wood grain. 
• Let the filler or epoxy cure fully.

Staining/Painting/Finishing:

• Color the repaired area with stain or paint to blend in with the surrounding wood. 
• Finish with a clear coat for added protection.

Prevention: How to Laser Cut/Engrave Without Burn Marks

The best way to deal with laser burn marks is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. Here are essential preventive measures:

• Optimizing Laser Settings: The interplay of laser power, speed, and focus is crucial. Generally, higher speeds with lower power often produce cleaner cuts than slower speeds with higher power—experiment on scrap wood to find the optimal settings for your specific material and laser.
• Material Testing: Always test your settings on scrap wood that’s the same type and thickness as your final piece. This will save you time, materials, and frustration.
• Lens Cleaning: Regularly clean your laser lens to ensure optimal performance and prevent debris from interfering with the laser beam.
• Masking: Applying masking tape to the wood’s surface before engraving can protect it from smoke residue and light charring.

Recommended reading: How to Find the Optimal Work Parameters

Air Assist for Laser Engraver or Cutter

A proper air assist system is crucial for minimizing burn marks. It:

• Clears debris and smoke while cutting
• Minimizes heat accumulation in the cutting area
• Enhances overall cutting quality
• Safeguards your laser lens from contamination

Modern laser systems like those using Luban software can automate air assist controls for different cutting layers, significantly improving results.

Laser Burn Marks as an Artistic Effect

It’s important to remember that burn marks aren’t always undesirable. Skilled laser artists often use controlled burning to create depth, contrast, and texture in their work. This technique can achieve a rustic, vintage, or even dramatic look.

Conclusion

Successfully removing laser burn marks requires patience and the right approach for each situation. Remember:

• Always start with the gentlest method
• Test techniques on scrap wood first
• Consider whether the burn marks might enhance your design
• Maintain your laser equipment regularly to prevent excessive burning

You can achieve clean, professional results in your laser woodworking projects with practice and attention to detail. Keep experimenting with different techniques and don’t hesitate to embrace some burn marks as design elements when appropriate.

The post How to Remove Laser Burn Marks from Wood appeared first on | Blog.

Blue Laser vs Red Laser: Understanding the Differences

Laser wavelength is the main factor influencing the efficiency of different applications. There is a difference between working with blue laser vs red laser in the laser engraving process regarding accuracy, material compatibility, and efficiency. 

There are laser wavelength differences between the two. This means that blue laser, which has a shorter wavelength, will therefore suit applications demanding extremely high accuracies and a very high requirement for precision of measurement. On the other hand, red laser, which has a comparatively long wavelength, is suitable for dynamic applications and very high-speed measurements—for instance, measuring moving items on conveyor belts.

What Determines Laser Color and Performance?

Laser color and performance are defined by the wavelength of light they emit. Blue lasers have shorter wavelengths than red lasers, leading to distinct laser wavelength differences in functionality.

The Science Behind Laser Wavelengths

• Blue Lasers: Operate at wavelengths around 440–450 nm, which are in the visible light spectrum. Their shorter wavelength allows for higher precision and better absorption by various materials.
• Red Lasers: Function at wavelengths around 630–700 nm. These longer wavelengths are also visible but have less precision than blue lasers.

Why Choose a Blue Laser for Engraving and Cutting?

• Precision & Detail: Smaller wavelengths translate into sharply engraved blue lasers, tightly intended lines, and reduced diffusion on reflective surfaces.
• Material Compatibility: They perform exceptionally well on wood, metals, and shiny surfaces, as these materials absorb blue laser light more effectively.
• Energy Efficiency: Blue lasers offer higher energy levels and intensity, making them efficient for demanding tasks.
• Related Term: Blue laser engraving excels in delivering intricate and precise results. 

When a Red Laser Might Be Your Best Bet

• Versatility & Cost-Effectiveness: Red laser diodes are widely available and are typically more affordable.
• Simplicity in Most Situations: Performs reliably on matte, non-reflective surfaces, making it suitable for general-purpose applications.

Application Scenarios: Blue vs Red

The choice between blue laser vs red laser depends on the materials, precision requirements, and budget considerations.

Engraving & Cutting

Blue lasers excel at intricate engraving on various materials, including tough or reflective ones. Red lasers handle basic cutting and engraving at a lower cost but with less refinement.

Measurement & Alignment

Red lasers are commonly used in sensors and industrial measurement tools due to their availability and speed. Blue lasers can offer higher accuracy in specialized scenarios but at a higher cost.

Handling Reflective, Organic, and High-Temperature Surfaces

Blue lasers maintain focus and precision on shiny surfaces, hot metals, and translucent materials. Red lasers struggle with these conditions due to deeper penetration and diffusion.

Cost and Efficiency Considerations

Red lasers are generally cheaper to produce. Blue lasers may cost more upfront, but they can offer long-term energy savings.

Operating Safely with Red and Blue Lasers

Both types of laser are visible, which enhances safe handling. Always follow these safety measures:

• Use proper protective eyewear.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines.
• Ensure adequate ventilation and workspace precautions.

Blue Laser Modules Recommendation

If you are looking for the best blue laser module, consider Snapmaker laser modules. The Snapmaker 10W High Power Laser Module features advanced laser beam splitters, doubling the power from 5W to 10W. It works at speeds up to 6000 mm/min and can cut through 8 mm basswood, making it eight times faster than the 1.6W module—perfect for efficiently tackling more materials and projects.

The Snapmaker 20W & 40W Laser Module with Air Assist offers powerful cutting capabilities, handling up to 20mm pinewood or 15mm basswood plywood in a single pass (40W) and 10mm basswood plywood (20W). Its smart Air Assist reduces charring, enhances quality, and keeps the laser lens clean and controllable via Luban for seamless operation. Enjoy 1000+ ready-to-use design templates in Luban for quick and creative projects.

Other Types of Laser: Infrared

So now we know that blue lasers are great for deeper engravings and cuts, and red lasers are perfect for matte, non-reflective surfaces. However, another type of laser is very popular: infrared lasers.

Infrared lasers emit invisible light at the typical wavelength of 1064 nm, so special safety measures are needed. Infrared lasers have a smaller laser spot, perfect for delicate engraving and detailed designs. Click here for detailed information about infrared lasers.

The Snapmaker 1064nm Infrared Laser Module engraves plastics and metals with precision, integrating seamlessly with Snapmaker 2.0, Artisan, and Ray series. Its built-in safety sensor halts operation if misaligned, while the AB position feature in Luban ensures flawless graphic placement for efficient engraving.

The Final Verdict: Blue Laser vs Red Laser

Blue and red lasers each have their strengths and limitations. Blue lasers are outstanding in energy efficiency: no other laser takes the performance efficiency match; it can be applied to a broader range of materials than red lasers can. Red lasers, however, win on price and speed for all-round applications. It’s essential to match your laser choice with project requirements. You should also consider material type, precision needs, and budget.

With a clear understanding of these differences, you can confidently select the laser that best suits your needs.

The post Blue Laser vs Red Laser: Which One Is Best for You appeared first on | Blog.

Instead of just giving you a list of “don’ts,” we’ll explore why certain materials don’t play nice with laser cutters. Understanding these principles will help you choose safer solutions and better project alternatives.

Materials That Are Not Suitable for Laser Cutting (With Diode Lasers)

If you’re using a consumer-grade diode laser cutter, this guide is specifically for you.

Pro tip: While all diode lasers are semiconductor lasers, not all semiconductor lasers are simple diodes. Think of “semiconductor laser” as a family name, with diode lasers being just one branch of that family – typically the compact, lower-power devices you’ll find in consumer machines.

Flammable Materials

Avoid using flammable and explosive materials to prevent fire risks.

• Polypropylene Foam: Highly flammable and can catch fire while cutting.
• Coated Carbon Fiber: The resin coating can give off toxic fumes, and cutting poses a significant fire risk.
• Oily or Resinous Wood: Pine, cedar, or teak woods have a high resin or oil content and can ignite or char excessively. Use untreated hardwoods like maple or birch.

Reflective Metals

Avoid highly reflective materials like mirror-finished aluminum, brass, and copper when using diode lasers. These materials reflect most of the diode laser beam’s energy, making cutting extremely difficult. If necessary, use laser absorption coatings on these reflective materials to convert reflected light into heat and minimize safety risks.

• Mirror-finished Aluminum, Brass, and Copper: They reflect the laser beam, and hinder cutting ability. While specialized fiber lasers are designed for metal cutting, diode lasers are not. Use materials with non-reflective coatings.

Materials with Toxic Emissions

Carefully evaluate whether the material will produce toxic and harmful fumes during laser processing, and ensure that your air purification system can effectively filter it.

• Chlorinated Plastics (e.g., PVC and Vinyl): Cutting PVC releases chlorine gas, which is toxic to humans and can corrode the components of the laser cutter.
• ABS Plastic: It emits cyanide fumes when lasered. And it usually comes with melting results rather than a clean cut. Use acrylic instead.
• Chromium-tanned Leather: Chromium-tanned leather releases toxic chromium oxide fumes during laser cutting. Use vegetable-tanned leather instead.
• Certain types of Polycarbonate (PC): While some polycarbonates are laser-safe, others contain additives that can release toxic fumes when heated. 
• Fiberglass: It contains both glass and resin, which can emit toxic fumes and harm the machine. Consider switching to laser compatible resins or glass without embedded fibers.
• Polystyrene Foam: It will burn quickly, give off toxic smoke, and catch fire easily. Make use of specially designed laser-safe foams.

Thickness of Materials

As a rule of thumb, materials thicker than 0.25 inch (6mm) begin to pose problems for most consumer diode lasers, notably denser materials, such as hardwoods. Your laser’s power and material density may cause this to vary. It is also tricky to cut fragile materials cleanly.

Consult your laser cutter’s specifications for recommended material thicknesses.

Common Laser Cutting Materials

Selection Principles

1. Material Safety: Safety is paramount. Avoid materials that are flammable or release toxic fumes.
2. Machine Capability: Consider the laser wavelength and laser power.

Recommending reading: Principles for Material Selection

For clarity, here are some common materials that can typically be cut with a laser cutter, especially on consumer-grade machines: (Officially tested materials with Snapmaker machines)

• Wood (basswood, paulownia, pinewood, beech, walnut, bamboo, MDF)
• Leather (vegetable-tanned leather, suede)
• Fabrics (cotton fabric, canvas)
• Laser-safe plastics
• Cardboard (corrugated fiberboard, A4 white paper)
• Non-transparent acrylic (blue excluded)
• Stainless Steel (0.1mm)

Note: Compatible materials vary according to the laser cutter’s power. Always check your specific laser cutter’s specifications.

Laser Cutting vs. Laser Engraving

The cutting or engraving method plays a part in what materials can be used with a laser. 

• Laser Cutting: This process uses a laser beam to cut through the material. It requires higher power settings to pass through the material thoroughly. So it works best with thicker or denser materials like wood or acrylic.
• Laser Engraving: This process uses a lower-power laser to etch or mark the material’s surface without cutting through. It’s suitable for a broader range of materials. It is often used for decorative patterns, textures, or logos on various surfaces.

Laser Cutting with Safety and Creative Combinations

• Safety: Always wear appropriate laser safety goggles, work in a well-ventilated area, and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Snapmaker Ray has brown acrylic enclosure panels and dust isolation settings, ensuring your safety.
• Creative Combo: Combining laser cutting with techniques like 3D printing or CNC carving can open up exciting possibilities. Here is a mini electronic musical instrument made with 3 techniques.

Takeaways

Knowing what you can cut is as important as knowing what not to cut. When in doubt:

• Go through your machine’s specifications
• Research material composition
• Test small samples first
• Ensure proper ventilation
• Keep safety equipment handy

The post What Materials Cannot Be Cut on a Laser Cutter appeared first on | Blog.