Figure 1 by Randy Laybourne on Unsplash
Are your fingers itching to be more creative? Perhaps you’re keen to try a new handcraft. If you’ve never tried a laser cutter, now’s your opportunity to experiment with something new.
What is Laser Cutting?
In laser cutting a laser cuts into materials. This technology is generally used industrially, but increasing numbers of small businesses, schools and craft enthusiasts are using laser cutting machines to create their own personalised masterpieces.
How does it work? A high-powered laser beam is directed with laser optics or a computer numerical control to slice through material. The laser beam focuses on the specific material, which it burns, melts or vapourises away. Some laser cutters even blow away parts of the material using high-pressured gas. The result? A smooth, defined edge and high-quality surface finish.
What Materials Can I Cut With a Laser Cutter?
With a laser cutter the possibilities are endless. From cutting to engraving to marking, here are eight item ideas you can enjoy crafting:
ABS Plastics
ABS plastic comes in various colours and sizes. It’s tough, resists impact, and can be laser cut, engraved & marked. You can laser cut ABS plastic in engineering and robotics, when making models or cutting automotive parts, home appliances, machine parts, product prototypes and radio-controlled car body shells.
Acrylic
If you’d like to customise some interior décor, why not laser cut acrylic wall art signs, such as a significant name, phrase, quote or word? Personalise your child or colleague’s door with a named sign, or make wine glass identifier party favours.
Cork
Laser cut into cork to make coasters, delicate jewellery pieces, take-away coffee cup holders or pin boards. The bonus? It’s environmentally-friendly.
Fabric
From cushion covers to placemats, laser cut fabric to your heart’s content to create the perfect soft furnishings for your home or office.
Leather
Always wanted some leather coasters for your living room or office desk? Or how about a stylish belt, handbag, wristband or pocket whisky bottle cover? Do it all by laser cutting leather.
Paper
Calling all school teachers and hobbyists! Laser cut paper lends itself to the most beautiful decorative wall art, invitations and stencils. Take your scrapbooking and craft activities to new levels with spectacular designs.
Rubber Stamps
Grow your company’s brand by inserting your logo onto your office stationery and make your mark with your own business rubber stamp!
Wood
Whether it’s a gift box, intricate lamp shade, invitation to a corporate function, birthday party or wedding, or key ring pendant, laser cutting into wood boasts numerous possibilities.
What About Engraving and Marking?
Engraving and marking with a laser cutter is also an option. From bottle openers and cheese knife sets to photo boxes, photo frames, champagne or wine glasses, you can purchase engraving materials to engrave other such unique corporate and personal gifts. The laser will work on:
- Ceramics and tiles
- Coated material
- Glass and crystal
- Granite and marble
- Metal
If the majority of your machine work is comprised of engraving, buy a laser engraving machine instead of a laser cutter. It’s fitted with a metal laser tube to ensure your engraving is perfectly precise.
[Conclusion]
Laser cutting could be the very thing your small business, school or craft time needs. Keen to get your hands on this mean machine? Try it out! Purchasing a laser cutter could be the greatest investment into your new hobby and perhaps even an income stream you never imagined.
2018 ·