We got a new toy in the MK workshop and I couldn’t be more excited!! Enter the Glowforge…I have been wanting one for a long time now and I am super pumped to put it to work.
About the Glowforge
The Glowforge is a laser cutting and engraving machine that is super user-friendly to use. They say you can get it out of the box and up and running in 30 minutes. Now that 30 minutes does not account for a 6-year-old running around the house like crazy while your dog is eating out of the garbage. So…it did take us a little longer to set up. But set up was super quick and we had our first project completed the same night we set it up.
Now I will be honest, the design side of the process has been a learning curve for me. I have never used a vector design program before. I have been teaching myself as I go, so I am able to create what I envision in my head. But, there are many other options to skip the design part altogether. Glowforge has designs that you get when you buy a machine and you can also purchase more. Also, there are a ton of SVG cut files on Etsy.com. The possibilities are truly endless with this machine!!
What Materials Can Be Used
The Glowforge can both cut and engrave. The Glowforge can cut wood, fabric, leather, paper, acrylic, Delrin (acetal), rubber, Corian, foods, and more. Glowforge can also engrave glass, titanium, marble, coated metal, and anodized aluminum. I’ve even seen people engrave certain laptops and tablets. Seriously, the possibilities are endless.
If cutting on a single pass, cutting materials ¼” think works the best. However, you can cut up to ½”. You may just need to make multiple passes. Which is not big deal because the precision on this laser cutter is so precise, it’s incredible! For engraving, you can remove the cutting tray and insert objects as thick as 2”.
Glowforge also has materials you can buy from them that are guaranteed to work; these are called Proofgrade materials [find them here]. So far, they have hardwood, acrylic, plywood, and leather. I believe they plan on adding more material over time as well. You can check them out here.
What We Have Made So Far
We have had our Glowforge for a couple of weeks now and have already put it to good use. Here are some pictures of what we have made.
There are so many product possibilities! I am having so much fun exploring all the options! If you are interested in a Glowforge, you can use our referral link here and save up to $500 off.
