WHEREEMBROIDERY,QUILTING, AND LASERS INTERSECT: A CREATIVE JOURNEY
WHENTHEQ4PARTY’SOVER: POST-SEASON PROFITS
RAISING THE BAR: HAT BARS A UNIQUE INTERACTIVE EXPERIENCE
TO NICHE OR NOT TO NICHE: A LASER CUTTING BUSINESS DILEMMA
LASER MEETS FOAM: ELEVATE YOUR PROJECTS WITH POLYSTYRENE
Aeon
APA Expo
H & H Creations Tampa
Houston Acrylic
Johnson Plastics Plus
Laser Design Club
Laser Map Maker
Monarch Pine
TruFlat Plywood
As we meet here during the busiest time of the year, I know many of you are juggling endless orders, preparing for markets, and fulfilling holiday demand. It’s easy to get lost in the hustle, but I encourage you to take a moment—whether it’s during a long cutting job or just a brief pause—to relax and dive into this issue of Laser Focused.
We’ve packed it with valuable insights to help you maximize this season and set your business up for success right into the new year. You’ll find articles on working with less common materials like fabric and foam board, which can add a fresh twist to your offerings. We also explore one of the newest happenings in the marketplace, creating a hat bar, helping you expand your business or tap into a new market.
As always, our advertisers play a vital role in making this magazine possible, so please support them as you plan out your end-of-year projects. Their tools and materials could be just what you need to finish this busy season strong and expand your offerings in the new year.
Finally, your feedback is essential to us. Let us know what you’d like to see more of, whether it’s articles on specific techniques, business advice, or material deep dives. We’re always looking for ways to better serve you and help you grow your laser business.
Publisher Will Louie
Editor Robin Roberts
Creative Director
Victor Havens
Copyright ©2024
Laser Focused Magazine
Here’s to a productive and successful finish to 2024!
If you spend much time watching crafting YouTube videos, chances are you’ve stumbled across Kim & Garrett Make It! Married couple Kim and Garrett have over 115,000 subscribers and millions upon millions of views across 400+ videos.
Jessica
Become a guest contributor and showcase your expertise with Laser Focused readers. Contact us HERE!
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Keep a sheet of sturdy card stock by your laser. Whenever you have a job with lots of cutouts, not big enough to fall through but hard to pick up, simply bring the cardstock to the laser bed and slide all those little bits on! Fastest way to get a clean bed!
How to take a small bow out of 1/8” MDF if it doesn’t lay completely flat in your laser: put the board on an angle with one edge touching the table and the other end in your hand, bow facing up. With your free hand, you can gently push against the bow, and it will come out. You will apply a little pressure and pull the board up with one hand while pushing down with the other hand. See it done and more - Watch the video here.
— H&H Creations
Always brand your items. When people receive them as gifts, they’ll know where to find you. It is also free marketing!
— Liz Rivers
To avoid weeding and unwanted residue when cutting and engraving acrylic, mask the back of the acrylic and apply a thin layer of dish detergent to the top surface before lasering. This helps protect the surface, and when you’re done, simply rinse it off and dry!
— Michael Mullins
If you stress creating bows for your finished products, here is a great link - a picture (video in this case!) is worth a thousands words! So easy! Bow How-To — Creative Bee
Have a Tip or Trick you want to share? Let us know! Click Here!
If you spend much time watching crafting YouTube videos, chances are you’ve stumbled across Kim & Garrett Make It! Married couple Kim and Garrett have over 115,000 subscribers and millions upon millions of views across 400+ videos. It might surprise you to know that they didn’t set out to create a crafting phenomenon – but their story shows that when opportunity meets preparation, the sky’s the limit!
The story begins in the early 2010s, when Garrett’s wife passed. “I was in northern Virginia outside DC,” Garrett says. “I was a government contractor, working from home. We had the house and everything. Then I was suddenly a single father of four – and northern Virginia gets really expensive.” Wanting a more enjoyable (and affordable) life for himself and his kids, the family packed up and moved to Richmond. “I worked from home. For two straight years the only contact I had with other people was with my kids. So in 2013 I was like, ‘I need to
go meet adults again.’ I got on Match.com and ended up coming across Kim’s profile.”
Kim has a vivid memory of when she saw Garrett’s profile. “It had the craziest story. You could tell he was funny. It said ‘I have 4 kids, I’m tired of sneaking them into the bars to hang out with me.’” According to Kim, even the cat had a persona! “I could see he hadn’t been online in a couple of weeks, but I messaged him anyway: ‘this is the funniest story I have ever read. You may never see this, but I wanted you to know.’”
Fortunately, Garrett did see Kim’s message, and they met for the first time at a local bar. Since they both worked in tech, they shared a common language (a lot of their first date was spent debating the merits of transitioning data from local servers to cloud storage). They had both dealt with loss fairly recently – Kim’s sister had passed, and so Kim and her daughter had taken in Kim’s niece. They also realized they’d been in Las Vegas the same weekend, and had even been at the same cookout and concert the night before.
“Back in 2018,” says Garrett, “our kids were ripping on a show one day, and I was like ‘You guys need to start a YouTube channel!’ and they told me ‘You can’t just start a YouTube channel.” The couple had just bought a house together, and between the two of them they were already making a lot of things they needed. He suggested that Kim start a channel showing their crafting process. “Neither one of us wanted to get in front of the camera, but we were doing this. So the first few videos were just our hands.”
Eventually, the six kids met. Courtney (Kim’s eldest) and Kim’s niece (the youngest) quickly bonded with Garrett’s kids Tanner, Emma, Isabelle, and Sarah. And before long Kim, Garrett, and their six children became a big, beautiful, blended family. During the wedding, the kids said their vows along with Garrett. “It was a big emotional moment,” Kim says. “They’re great, everybody’s great.”
The birth of the Kim & Garrett Make It! channel was the result of something most parents can relate to – trying to prove a point to your kids.
The video format we know and love really began when Kim wanted to buy an expensive bookcase. Garrett, however, was sure that he could build it himself. “[Kim] told me if I was gonna make it, I would follow these plans and I was gonna film it. So that was one of our first big project YouTube videos. That might be where I started with the “Step One, Step Two [patter].” The iconic step-by-step shots started not as an attention-getter for YouTube, but as a practical consideration. “I did it big so I could just watch the first few seconds and know where I was [for editing]. And I decided just to leave it in.”
You might expect that, with the level of craftiness and woodworking Kim & Garrett were uploading to YouTube, that they already had a full complement of woodworking tools. But
KIM & GARRETT Continued from P 7
for the first year of their channel, Garrett bought the tools they’d need to work on a specific project. “That first year was really where we gathered all of our tools. It was kind of fun because he’d get things like an orbital sander, and we’d learn how that worked.”
But the two quickly ran out of things they needed around the house. “We built the chairs and coffee tables and beds that we needed, and we were searching for things that we wanted to do.” Eventually, Garrett was drawn to projects that required increasing levels of wood-cutting precision. “I had the Cricut,” Kim adds, “and he kept asking ‘Will it do wood?’” Kim laughs. “No, not really.”
They eventually bought a CNC machine with a router. “It was great, but it wasn’t doing what I wanted it to do. I needed more precision, and I needed it to be not-so-loud and not-so-dusty. So I said to Kim, look at this Glowforge. It’s just $6,000.” Kim remembers being shocked. “That was the cost of a car!”
Not one to be deterred, Garrett bought a small, inexpensive 5-watt diode laser online that barely cut through foam-core. Using this relatively cheap laser, they were able to start dipping their toes into the world of laser cutting. “We started engraving wooden spoons, pieces of wood. I said, ‘let’s try it with these earrings!’ Once I made the earrings, I decided it was really cool...” And just like that, Kim was sold.
In April 2020, they took out a loan for their first Glowforge, and were able to pay it off in the first
month. But more growth was still in the cards. “We started making the door rounds, made a website, and started selling kits. Somebody finished enough of the kits and was selling them at the farmer’s market. I was like, if they’re selling our signs, we should be selling our signs!”
The first time Kim & Garrett went to a farmer’s market with product for sale, their booth consisted of a 10’x10’ tent and their products, hanging from the sides. “It was just that and us, hanging out in our chairs. We didn’t have a checkout or anything.” Despite the minimal booth, their product was enough of a novelty that they made quite a few sales.
The farmer’s markets were great way to test the market, and before long they brought their products to craft shows across the east coast. As they continued to sell out, they realized their production capacity was a bottleneck. “If we can make 20 signs a week to take to the craft show with the Glowforge, imagine what we could pump out with a bed twice the size, four times the size!” Garrett told Kim. “I’d been talking with this company that can send one from China for the same price.” Kim was skeptical at first, but “finally I gave in – I could also see that we were making money, we could produce more, and we could sell more.” With the purchase of the bigger laser, they would able to increase production. What started as a YouTube project was about to become a full-scale business.
As the scope of the channel & business grew, it was clear that either Garrett or Kim was going to need to quit their job and work on the channel full time. “We weren’t sure who was going to burn their boats,” Garrett recalls. “That same day I go back to my desk, and there was a meeting with my manager and HR. They were burning my boats for me.”
With six months of severance, Garrett had enough breathing room to focus on growing the business. “We took my severance and bought the big laser,
and I went in deep.” Garrett also used his newfound time to improve their marketing and social media, learning about Facebook ads, SEO, etc. “Kim would still help out with the videos, but running the K&G channel, getting ready for shows, making new designs, and marketing – that was all me. At one point, it was time to grow or die. I was maxed out.”
Garrett asked Kim if she would consider quitting her job as IT personnel for the Federal Reserve and work with him on the business, but Kim had reservations. “I wasn’t comfortable with that. We still had kids in school. But then my job wasn’t going well, and on more than one occasion I’d come downstairs stressed out & crying. And Garrett said ‘you shouldn’t be doing this! We’ll figure it out. We can do this, Kim!’” Before long, Kim left her job and was on board full time as well.
The business’ social media growth was ad hoc – “I’d get a question – do you have a Facebook page?” Garrett turns away and clacks at an imaginary keyboard. “Yes I do! It’s right here.” Their Instagram and TikTok presence grew when they brought their eldest daughter as their social media manager. “Courtney really helped us grow our social media. She showed us you can’t just post a picture, you gotta add a filter and text. She made graphics,” Garrett says. By having a full-time social media manager, Kim & Garrett grew from 20k to 100k subscribers on YouTube.
Courtney has since started work as a social media manager at another company, so Kim & Garrett are
looking to bring somebody new on. “We’ve been doing it ourselves for about a year, and it’s really a full-time job. It might be the same project, but as you develop the content each of the platforms is looking for a different thing. And the demographic for each platform is different.”
After nearly every video they posted, Kim & Garrett would get questions about the paint brand they used. Since there was a gap in the market for smaller quantities of high-quality outdoor paint, Garrett put his government contractor expertise to use and found 4 potential paint manufacturers. Then he handed it off to Kim, to seal the deal on their newest venture – their own paint brand.
“We had about 70 different conversations [with the manufacturer] about all the bases and tints and exterior paints,” Kim recalls. And though the formulation process took a year, they were able to achieve the balance of outdoor quality and durability needed for their followers’ projects.
The next challenge was packaging the paint into smaller quantities more practical for crafting applications. “The first time was pure chaos. Paint everywhere. He says, here, I have these syringes. We’re gonna suck it out of the 5-gallon tub and put it into these smaller pouches.” Kim shakes her head. “Our forearms were so sore.” After multiple attempts to fill paint pouches efficiently, Garrett discovered paste-filling machines. “That made it a lot easier. We put more systems into place, so we should be able to hire somebody this next round to do it pretty cleanly.”
Key to the success of the paint brand has been Garrett’s experience with a process known as lean manufacturing. Lean manufacturing involves starting with the minimal viable product – “something that will sell, and that you can reliably produce. Then, make incremental improvements as you encounter new bottlenecks in your production.”
Acknowledged for fostering creativity, growth and customer success through innovation and unparalleled domestic support. It’s Official. . .
“We’re honored to be featured on a show that highlights the best companies in their respective industry.“ A word from our Owners... Visit us at aeonlaser.us/events to watch Aeon Laser USA on "World's Greatest!..." Episode 376 Visit us at aeonlaser.us/events to watch Aeon Laser USA on "World's Greatest!..." Episode 376 Aeon Laser USA has been recognized as one of the World's Greatest companies!
By: Tabitha Richardson, Laser Llama
Welcome to the hat bar, where customers not only purchase a hat but participate in the creation of a one-of-a-kind accessory. This interactive experience is as much about the process as it is about the product, offering customers the opportunity to choose their perfect hat, select a custom laser-engraved patch, and watch as it’s assembled in front of them. Here’s a closer look at what it takes to run a hat bar and why this concept is such a hit with customers.
The experience begins with the hat selection. At a hat bar, variety is key. Customers should be able to browse a diverse selection of hats to find the perfect match for their style. Whether it’s snapbacks, trucker hats, dad hats, or beanies, offering a wide range of options ensures that there’s something for everyone. The materials, colors, and fits should vary to cater to different tastes and needs.
In running a hat bar, curating a collection that appeals to your target audience is essential. Knowing your customers’ preferences, whether they lean toward classic and simple designs or trendy and bold statements, helps in choosing your inventory.
The real magic happens when it’s time to customize. The concept of a hat bar elevates a simple retail experience into something creative by allowing customers to choose from an array of laser-engraved patches. These patches can be made of materials like leather, cork, or fabric and designed with anything from logos, initials, and monograms to intricate artwork and symbols.
The key to making the patch selection successful is offering a wide variety of designs and understanding your target market. Is the event geared toward moms, coffee lovers, pet parents? Is it an area where a patriotic theme would sell better, or perhaps snarky-themed hats are a crowd-pleaser? This freedom to choose or create allows the customer to feel more connected to the product, as they are not only choosing a design but also taking part in the creative process. While the customer is making their selections, it’s a great opportunity to share more about your business and ask if they might need hats for their work, offering them a bulk discount if applicable.
Now, it’s time for the assembly. Watching the process of attaching the patch to the hat is another exciting aspect of the hat bar experience. Using either heat pressing or no-heat pressure methods, you now assemble the final product in front of the customer. This interactive step makes the experience feel more personal and satisfying for the customer—they’ve chosen the hat, selected the patch, and now they get to witness the final touches being applied. Customers love seeing the tools, techniques, and craftsmanship that go into creating their personalized hats. Explaining the process as you go can add educational value to the experience, making customers feel like they’re part of a behind-the-scenes production. Sharing details about the materials, the engraving process, and how the patch is applied gives the experience a bespoke, artisanal feel.
Customers love to share personalized products on social media, so creating a photo-worthy setup is essential. Encourage them to take pictures or record videos during the engraving or assembly process. You could even set up a designated area with good lighting and your logo where customers can show off their new hats and share their experiences online.
Running a hat bar is an exciting blend of retail, craftsmanship, and interactive experiences. By offering a wide selection of hats, high-quality laser-engraved patches, and the ability for customers to watch their hats being assembled, you create a memorable and unique experience. Not only do customers walk away with a customized product, but they also leave with a story, a connection to the process, and a sense of ownership over their creation.
• Vegetable-Tanned Leather or Leatherette: High-quality materials for patches that add a premium touch to your hats.
• 3M Hat Patch Adhesive (GS2 Awards): A reliable adhesive that requires no heat press and ensures patches stay securely attached.
• Heat N Bond adhesive: Great for leatherette, cork and fabric. Use a heat press with this one.
• Hat Heat Press: Essential for applying patches to hats quickly and professionally.
• Power Source: While some venues provide power, it’s wise to bring a portable battery, such as a Jackery, to ensure your setup runs smoothly.
• Variety of Hats: Offer a wide selection of hats to cater to different styles and preferences.
• Portable Laser (Xtool F1): Ideal for customizing patches or engraving hats on-site.
• Logo Stickers: Add a personal touch by placing a branded sticker with your logo on each hat. Avery labels are a budget-friendly option and can be printed at home!
• Bags for Purchases: Bring bags so shoppers can easily carry their new hats.
• Premade Hats: Display a few premade hats to give customers a clear idea of what to expect.
• Business Cards: Ensure customers can easily contact you or find your business online by handing out business cards.
• Clear Pricing: Make sure pricing is visible and straightforward, so customers know the cost of the hats and patches.
• Payment Methods: Bring a mobile payment device (like a card reader) or be prepared to accept digital payments via apps like PayPal or Venmo.
• Banner/Signage: Display a banner that explains the hat customization process to attract attention and clarify how your booth works.
• Hat Stands or Racks: Showcase your hats on display stands to make them easy for customers to see and choose from.
• Mirror: Provide a small mirror so customers can try on their hats and see how they look before buying.
• Tablecloth or Booth Decor: Create an inviting space by bringing a tablecloth and other decor that matches your brand’s aesthetic.
• Backup Supplies: Always have extra patches, hats, tools, and any equipment needed for assembly, just in case you run low.
• Scissors: You never know when you’ll find a loose thread.
Tabitha Richardson is the owner of Laser Llama. For helpful videos/discussions, join her group on facebook Engrave & Empower: Beginner Laser Engraving Community
Jessica Trueblood is an Etsy coach and strategist. She is the owner of Shop Review Crew, founder of the Etsy Underachievers group on Facebook, which provides free resources to Etsy sellers. She teaches using only Etsy best practices to ensure her students get the best information possible! She lives in Colorado with her husband, son and her Glowforge, Maxine. You can connect with her at www.shopreviewcrew. com
Here are some new updates to the Etsy platform that you may want to be aware of!
Jessica Trueblood, Shop Review Crew
The biggest and most impactful change is that Etsy will now prioritize listings with domestic U.S. shipping fees under $6. Etsy claims higher shipping prices can deter buyers, so now, they could also hurt your search rankings. (Could being the operative word, as Etsy has not released what the impact would be for higher shipping, TBD)
That means if your shipping costs are higher than $6, your listings MAY rank lower in search results, making it harder for buyers to find you.
This could be a significant challenge for true handmade sellers trying to compete with factory-produced products, as the costs of labor, materials, and shipping often adds up to pricing being challenging!
• Revisit your pricing! Etsy has introduced a new bulk pricing editing tool to speed up the process. The tool allows you to shift some of your shipping costs into the item price, which can help you stay competitive while still keeping your listings visible. There are also free pricing tools online that can be helpful! Make sure to account for your materials, labor, selling fees, etc!
• Use calculate shipping – Etsy has said you’ll be exempt from this new initiative
• Keep using free shipping for orders over $35 in your shop, these changes do not apply to those listings
**Keep in mind that this update only affects domestic US-to-US sales. If you’re an international seller or selling to international customers, This change doesn’t affect you.
Additionally, Etsy introduced a $15 shop setup fee and an identity verification requirement to prevent fraud and improve buyer trust.
There isn’t a way around this new rule, unfortunately. Any additional or new shops are subject to this fee.
To maintain its marketplace for handmade and
original goods, Etsy has introduced new Creativity Standards. Products must either be made, designed, or handpicked by the seller, and new labels will reflect the level of seller involvement. Etsy AI has been removing listings that they feel are not handmade. While this is a good initiative, it has been incorrect at times, in identifying listings that are not handmade.
• Document your making process. Videos and photos of you creating your products can be used if your listing is erroneously flagged (it has happened already).
• Appeal! Etsy has an appeal process if your listing is taken down for not being handmade. Follow the process and provide documentation
• Try not to panic! These decisions are made with AI, and they do make mistakes. If your appeal is not successful, try email or tagging Etsy on social media (Twitter/X tags are especially effective!
Experience
Reviews, Response Times, and On-Time Shipping Customer service being important is not new, nor is the use of metrics like Star Seller. Etsy’s algorithm will now weigh customer experience metrics even more heavily when determining rankings of listings on the Etsy search page. This includes your average review ratings, message response rates, and on-time shipping performance. Providing great customer service at every stage of the buying journey is more important than ever.
• Amazing Reviews: Encourage buyers to leave positive reviews by offering exceptional service. A thank you note in your package, or a short message to check on the item are great ways to remind buyers to leave a review.
• Response Time: Aim to respond to customer messages within 24 hours. This helps build trust and increases the chances of closing a sale. If you’re not always available, set up an auto-reply message for times when you’re offline.
• Shipping on time and Quickly: Always ship on time and provide tracking whenever possible.
All of these changes and more are discussed every day in the Etsy Underachievers Facebook group! Join and get up to speed!
By:
In the competitive landscape of laser cutting, a crucial decision for entrepreneurs is whether to specialize in a specific niche or offer a broader range of products and services. This article explores the pros and cons of both approaches, helping businesses determine the best path for their success.
A broader approach to laser-cut products can offer advantages. First, it allows businesses to diversify their risk, mitigating the impact of economic downturns or shifts in market demand. Second, a wider range of products can attract a larger customer base, including those who may not have initially considered custom or non-custom laser products.
Specializing in a particular niche can also be a strategic choice. By focusing on a specific area, businesses can develop a deep understanding of their target market’s needs and preferences, allowing them to tailor their products accordingly. This can lead to a stronger brand identity and a more loyal customer base. Additionally, niching often allows businesses to command premium prices for their specialized services, resulting in higher profit margins.
While offering a wider range of products can have benefits, there are also potential drawbacks. One challenge is that businesses may struggle to maintain a high level of expertise across all areas. This can lead to inconsistencies in quality and potentially damage their reputation. Additionally, a broader ap -
proach can require significant investments in inventory, supplies, and personnel, which may not be feasible for smaller businesses.
Niching can be a risky strategy, as it limits a business’s exposure to market fluctuations. If demand for the specialized product declines, it can have a significant impact on the business’s profitability. Moreover, niching can make it difficult to expand into new markets or diversify the customer base.
The decision to niche or not to niche ultimately depends on the specific circumstances of each laser-cutting business. While niching can offer significant advantages, such as stronger brand identity and higher profit margins, it also carries risks. A broader approach can provide greater diversification and a larger customer base, but it may require more resources and expertise. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this article, entrepreneurs can make an informed decision that sets their business up for long-term success.
As a general rule of thumb, you can always niche up or niche down, depending on how your sales are going. Just because you decide to start off in a niche doesn’t mean that you have to stay there. Part of being a good business owner is the ability to adapt along the way to help your business grow.
Brandon Wadas: Father of 3, Husband, Marketing Expert, and Co-Founder of Laser Design Club: https://www.laserdesignclub.com
By: Kristine Howard, The Sawdust Makery
Your event space is all set up. You ramped up your displays to draw the eye, have your product strategically placed and ready for customers to shop your space. But what are your next steps? How can you maximize the potential of your event and convert your customers into repeat customers throughout the year? In this article I’ll explore steps you can take to make the most of your event by engaging with your customers and creating future opportunities to help you grow your business.
Have you ever walked into a store and been instantly greeted by a salesperson who launches into a pitch about the latest product or the day’s hot sale? It can often feel quite impersonal and overly focused on making a sale. One of the best ways to engage with shoppers is by making eye contact, offering a friendly hello, and letting them know you’re available to help with any questions.
The key elements here are the eye contact and the warm greeting. This simple acknowledgment and brief interaction make the shopper feel welcome. Too often, we walk into a vendor booth at a show and find the person sitting behind their table or in a corner, possibly on their phone or chatting with another vendor, and we aren’t acknowledged at all. This can discourage a shopper, and you’ve lost the connection.
Connecting with shoppers can be as simple as asking a few questions about what they’re searching for and observing what catches their eye. If they show interest in a specific product, you can easily start a conversation by mentioning how much you love that item or by complimenting its beautiful design. Now you have a connection to build on with your customer.
Marketing your business beyond the event In my previous article, “Set Up and Stand Out Above the Crowd,” I briefly mentioned the importance of placing your cash stand at the front of your booth. This strategy not only helps you connect with shoppers as they enter your space, but also ensures that the YOU and the cash stand with your business name is the last thing they see as they check out with their item.
Times have changed and technology is our friend! We can include technology to help connect with our customers further. Here are a few tips on how to stay connected for future business:
• Place social media signage at your cash stand and other locations in your booth with QR Codes. If your booth is very busy, you may not have the opportunity to fully engage. This way your customers can connect with your business quickly, even if you were only able to get a quick hello in.
• Create a thank you card on a 4x6 card to add with their purchase. Include all your social media information and utilize QR codes on your flyer to make it quick and easy for your
customers to find you. This is a second layer of connectivity as the shopper may not have seen your signage.
• Keep a stack of those small thank you cards at your cash stand for people to take with them – even if they don’t buy anything. They can take one and look you up when they have time.
• Create a small flyer/sign to display or give for your event schedule for the season. If customers know where you are going to be – they may come looking for you again to purchase more items or see if you have new items.
QR codes and technology can help us grow our business, but don’t pass on the physical flyer either. Remember your shoppers come in all ages and can range from young to old. By having both QR code and a printed take-a-way, you’re covering all bases.
And one final tip – take charge and create your own social media events! While some events might not be social media savvy, you can step up and make your own event to boost your visibility. For example, create an event on Facebook and showcase your business and what you will be bringing while promoting the event. It’s free marketing to your local area and can help you reach new customers that you never would have connected with otherwise.
To wrap up, remember that setting up an eye-catching event space is just the beginning. By strategically engaging with your customers and creating opportunities for future interactions, you can transform your event into a powerful tool for year-round business growth and turn one-time visitors into loyal, repeat customers.
Kristine Howard is the owner of The Sawdust Makery. You can reach out to her at thesawdustmakery@gmail.com or find her on social media https://linktr.ee/thesawdustmakery https://www.facebook.com/groups/thesawdustmakerylasersvggroup/ https://www.instagram.com/thesawdustmakery
By: Alisha Pate, Pate Ranch Creations
Polystyrene foam is a versatile material that can elevate your laser engraving projects. From packaging solutions to creative craft applications, this lightweight, durable material has unique properties that make it appealing for engravers. However, it requires specific knowledge and handling to maximize its potential without compromising safety or quality. Here’s a guide on using polystyrene foam in your laser projects to achieve the best results.
Polystyrene foam stands out for its:
• Lightweight nature: This makes it perfect for signage, prototypes, and models.
• Easy availability: It’s widely accessible, making it a cost-effective option for many projects.
• Durability: Despite being lightweight, it offers a certain degree of strength, especially when used for protective packaging or displays.
• Customization options: Foam can be easily shaped, engraved, and cut into a wide variety of designs.
• Affordability: Foam is significantly more affordable than plywood or acrylic, making it perfect for short-term projects like event signage. For weddings, parties, or corporate events, where signs are only needed for a few hours, foam offers a cost-effective solution.
Laser engraving on polystyrene foam requires specific settings to avoid common issues like melting or warping. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
1. Set Your Laser Power Correctly - The key to engraving foam successfully is to use lower power settings. Polystyrene foam is soft and melts easily, so you’ll want to avoid overdoing the power. A typical setting is around 10-20% power for most machines, but this can vary based on the thickness and density of the foam.
2. Speed Matters - When engraving foam, it’s crucial to use faster speeds. This ensures that the laser moves quickly enough to avoid lingering in one spot and causing unwanted melting or burn marks.
3. Use Defocused Beam - A slightly defocused beam helps create smoother engravings. Since foam is a porous material, the defocused beam allows for more subtle engraving without cutting too deep, preventing jagged edges.
4. Ventilation is Key - Engraving polystyrene foam produces fumes, which can be harmful if not properly ventilated. Ensure that your workspace has adequate ventilation and use an air assist and exhaust system to direct fumes away from the work area.
Polystyrene foam is an ideal material for projects requiring lightweight, three-dimensional elements. Here are some ways you can incorporate it into your work:
• Signage: Due to its lightweight nature, foam works exceptionally well for custom signage that’s easy to mount and transport. The material can be painted or coated after engraving to create high-impact visuals.
• Packaging Inserts: Many laser engravers use foam to create custom inserts that protect products. The ability to quickly cut foam to
the exact shape of a product makes it ideal for shipping fragile items.
• Prototyping: Designers and engineers often rely on polystyrene foam for rapid prototyping. Its affordability and ease of manipulation allow for quick iteration during the design process.
• Layering: Consider using foam in layered projects where different shapes or colors are stacked to create a 3D effect. This technique works well in visual displays or exhibits.
• Texturizing: Add texture to your foam engravings by experimenting with various speed and power settings to produce different depths. This can add depth and interest to your designs.
• Paint Finishes: After engraving, foam can be easily painted or sealed. Use a spray paint suitable for foam to add color and character to your pieces without melting the material.
• Melting or Burning: Too much power or speed can cause unwanted burns or melting. Always do a test piece first to dial in the settings.
• Brittleness: While durable, polystyrene foam can become brittle, especially along intricate cuts. Handle delicate sections with care and consider reinforcing thin areas with another material for added stability. To mitigate this, I like to use 1/5” thickness when I can.
It’s essential to note that polystyrene foam releases toxic fumes when burned. To ensure safety:
• Work in a well-ventilated area: Always use an exhaust system or proper ventilation to direct fumes away from your workspace.
• Dispose of waste responsibly: Polystyrene waste should be disposed of in accordance
by: Braden Todd, GS2 Awards
We all know that ornaments sell like crazy for the holidays, but how can we use this selling frenzy to build sales and work for the inevitable downtime after the holidays? The answer is with heirloom ornaments! These ornaments aren’t the ones you need to scour Esty for files for either; these are simple pieces that barely require purchased materials.
To sell and capture these sales, all that is needed are pre-sales to lock in the orders, and then the needed production occurs in January when everything seems to slow down for about a month. The special part of these ornaments is that they are made from your customer’s actual Christmas Tree. So instead of making a “Baby’s First Christmas” ornament, you get to make a “First Christmas Tree” ornament! This will help invoke the holiday memories of setting up the tree for the first Christmas, and the customer gets to keep an engraved piece of art from that first memorable tree! If you don’t want to limit sales, you can easily edit the phrase to include “Dillon’s First Christmas Tree,” “Our First Christmas Tree,” “Our First Tree in Our New Home,” and many more! Year after year, these ornaments will grow in value for your customer and become an heirloom for their families.
wood piece. Once you have the round, you will sand it smoothly using an orbital sander or sandpaper. We always like to start with 80 grit and then work up to 220 grit to get a nice smooth surface. Once your surface is smooth and clean from dust, you can spray it with clear sealer. As you spray, you will see the sealer is not even and soaks in differently across your piece. With a few coats, the sealer will fully cover the round. We like to let this last coat fully dry, then sand lightly with 220 grit and spray the sealer one last time to leave a very smooth surface. This will need to be done to the front and backside, and the edges will need sprayed too but not sanded as the edges are meant to look more rustic. To mount the eye hook, we recommend pre-drilling a pilot hole and then attaching the eye hook. By pre-drilling a pilot hole, you will prevent splitting the round when adding the eye hook.
Luckily everyone will want their tree for the holidays while you’re already swamped, so all that is needed is to take the orders during the holidays, then have the customer bring over a piece of the tree trunk when they take their tree down after the holidays are over. This helps generate more sales that you may not have time to fulfill in November/December, and then start the actual work and fulfillment in January when sales always seem to slump.
As mentioned, you will need a piece of the tree trunk to make the actual ornament. Also needed will be a handsaw or chop saw, orbital sander or sandpaper, and clear finish (Deft Semigloss from Home Depot works great), and an eye hook for attaching a ribbon.
We produced these ornaments by taking the tree trunk and slicing a semi-thick round from the
Now that the round is fully prepped, you’re ready to engrave the round. Generally, with pine, the laser engraving process produces a nice contrasting mark, but if desired, you can always add a paint fill to the text too. If paint filling, be sure to mask the round, then engrave, seal the engraving with your clear finish, and then fill with paint. By sealing the engraving, you will prevent the paint from wicking into the unengraved wood and making the engraving appear blurry.
Now that all the work is done, all that is left is to unveil the heirloom ornament to your customer. I hope this helps to capture more sales this holiday season, good luck everyone!
Braden Todd of GS2 Awards: While offering many materials, one of GS2’s specialties is prefinished sheets, and medals were one of the reasons we developed them. You can check them (and all of our products) out here: www.gs2awards.com.
with local regulations, as it can be difficult to recycle.
After engraving or cutting polystyrene foam, adding a finish through painting can enhance the overall look of your project. Foam’s porous nature makes it ideal for absorbing paint, but it also requires special care to avoid damage.
Matte spray paint can achieve a smooth, professional finish and is perfect for polystyrene foam because:
• Non-reflective finish: It offers a clean, subdued look, which can make intricate designs stand out without being too shiny or overwhelming.
• Quick drying: Spray paint dries faster than traditional brush-on paints, allowing for efficient, repeated coats without dragging out the project timeline.
• Consistent coverage: The fine mist from spray cans ensures even coverage, especially on the foam’s porous surface.
1. Prepare the Surface - After engraving or cutting, gently wipe the foam surface with a soft cloth to remove any dust or debris. Foam tends to collect small particles during the engraving process, which can interfere with the paint adhering smoothly.
2. Choose the Right Spray Paint - Always opt for a spray paint labeled as safe for foam. Some paints contain solvents that can dissolve or damage foam. Matte spray paint is typically a safe choice, particularly those designed for craft or model-making.
3. Apply Light, Repeated Coats - The key to a great finish on polystyrene foam is patience. Apply light, repeated coats of matte spray paint. Hold the can about 12-18 inches from the foam and apply each coat in sweeping, even strokes. Don’t try to cover everything in one go—this can cause pooling or lead to
surface melting. Instead, build up the coverage with several light layers.
4. Dry Between Coats - Allow each coat to fully dry before applying the next one. This prevents uneven textures or unwanted runs. Most matte spray paints dry within 10-15 minutes, but waiting a little longer ensures a smoother final product.
5. Seal if Necessary - For projects that require extra durability, especially for outdoor or high-use items, consider adding a clear matte sealant over the painted foam. This helps protect the finish from wear and tear while maintaining the non-reflective look.
• Custom Color Themes: Matte spray paint allows you to customize your foam engravings with specific color schemes, perfect for branding or personalized projects.
• Textured Effects: Layering different colors in thin coats can create subtle gradients or texture effects that add depth to your designs.
• Protective Coating: In addition to aesthetic appeal, painting foam can also add a protective layer, helping the material last longer, especially in handling or display settings.
Using matte spray paint on polystyrene foam can significantly enhance the aesthetic of your laser projects. By applying light, repeated coats, and ensuring proper drying time between layers, you’ll achieve a smooth, even finish that elevates your
Laser cutting can often leave a lot of gaps between the parts cut from a material. No one likes filling their shop with unusable scraps, but it can be challenging to lay out graphics in just the right way to get the most out of any material. Here are three LightBurn tools that make the layout process faster and more
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Tyler Raps is a Documentation Writer and one-man shipping department at LightBurn Software. For more information on the above tools, and many more, visit our documentation at docs.lightburnsoftware.com or email us at support@lightburnsoftware.com.
Use Tool layers to represent your material. In LightBurn, Tool layers are special layers that are never output to your laser, so you can use them for designing and laying out graphics without having to worry about deleting them before starting a job. When you’re working with rectangular sheets of material, create a rectangle with the exact dimensions of the sheet, and set it to a Tool layer — you can then arrange your graphics within the rectangle to see exactly how many you can squeeze in.
The Grid Array tool is ideal for laying out nested duplicates of graphics. You may already know that you can create duplicate rows and columns of any design using Grid Array, but did you know that you can adjust the spacing between duplicates, shift their placement, and even mirror them? Experiment with these settings until you get the copies as close together as possible — the layout will live-adjust in your Workspace as you make changes in the Grid Array window, and you’ll even see the Total Size of the grid and Count of copies, so you’ll know which changes yield the most efficient usage.
Use Docking to bring multiple unique graphics together. Docking works by moving all selected graphics up, down, left, or right, until they touch another (unselected) graphic, or an edge of your Workspace. To minimize the gaps between objects as much as possible, it’s often helpful to Dock objects in two directions, and the order in which you do so makes a difference — try out different Docking directions in different orders until you achieve the most efficient layout. A little bit of manual adjustment can also go a long way with Docking, so don’t hesitate to rotate or move a few key graphics so they’ll nest together once you Dock them.
In 2020, Patrick and Courtney Boren, along with Chelsea Sauder, opened Houston Acrylic, a brick-and-mortar store in North Houston. Specializing in acrylic materials, they quickly became a vital resource for local creators. But it’s not just their products that make them stand out—it’s their commitment to giving back. By turning leftover acrylic “drops” into tools for education and creativity, Houston Acrylic demonstrates how businesses can make a meaningful impact in their communities.
When large acrylic sheets are cut down into smaller sizes, the leftover pieces, known as drops, are often too small to sell. Instead of discarding them, Houston Acrylic began donating these drops to local organizations. Houston Community College was among
the first recipients, using the drops to create windchimes that helped deter birds from flying into large glass windows—a practical and creative solution.
Eventually, the college encouraged Houston Acrylic to spread the wealth. They loved the materials but had more than they could use and knew others were also in need. As word spread about the usefulness of these drops, Houston Acrylic expanded its outreach. Nonprofits across the country can now apply through the Houston Acrylic website to receive boxes of these materials, with recipients chosen by drawing from the eligible applications. Over 200 boxes have been distributed to date, empowering organizations to teach laser cutting and crafting skills. One such organization, working with autistic individuals, used the drops to create products like keychains and earrings. The sales from these items help fund the program and pay wages to the participants, making a lasting difference in their lives.
Houston Acrylic’s initiative has also impacted schools, where students are learning not just laser cutting but also problem-solving and design skills. The company even donated a Glowforge to a high school that needed one, ensuring students could continue exploring new creative avenues. This initiative has given hope to students, showing them that creativity and learning can thrive even in challenging circumstances.
The success of Houston Acrylic’s drop donation program shows that incorporating charity into a business model doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. They’ve inspired creativity and learning across the country by finding a way to turn waste into a resource. For other businesses, this is a powerful reminder that doing good can be as simple as identifying a need and finding a way to meet it. Whether donating materials, time, or expertise, every effort counts—and it all adds up to doing good business by doing good.
If you or someone you know is using their laser business to support a cause or give back to the community, we want to hear from you. Share your stories with us and help inspire others in the laser community to do good business by doing good.
By: Shon Amacker, Geaux Savvy Designs
As an experienced embroiderer, quilter, and laser enthusiast, I’ve found that combining these three disciplines is a rewarding and enjoyable way to bring imagination to life. When I first ventured into embroidery, it was the tactile satisfaction of thread against fabric that drew me in. But as my skills evolved and I acquired new tools like a CO2 laser cutter, the creative possibilities seemed endless. It was like opening a new chapter, where old techniques met cutting-edge technology in a symphony of creativity.
For anyone who loves embroidery, appliqué is a technique that offers a burst of color and texture to your projects. Traditionally, cutting fabric pieces for appliqué could be a painstaking process, especially when working with intricate designs. That’s where the magic of lasers comes in. Using my laser cutter, I’m able to create precise appliqué pieces from a variety of fabrics, including twill and cotton. It eliminates the tediousness of manual cutting while delivering cleaner, more accurate results.
One of the first projects where I incorporated my laser was a baby burping bib. I used the laser to cut the appliqué pieces for a cute animal design, which I then embroidered onto the fabric. The precision of the laser made the entire process smoother. With the laser, I could experiment with different shapes, knowing they’d turn out exactly as I envisioned.
Lasers also allowed me to design and cut custom acrylic templates. These templates have become essential tools, not just for appliqué work but also for quilting. When I wanted to add a touch of embroidery to a quilt, I cut the fabric pieces for appliqué using my laser and used my acrylic templates to ensure each piece was perfectly aligned. The ability to reuse these templates has saved me time, making the process more efficient while maintaining the integrity of my designs.
Adding appliqué to a quilt takes a traditional craft and gives it a fun twist. By layering fabric pieces on top of a quilt block and stitching them into place, I can create eye-catching designs that are both dimensional and visually appealing. Using my laser to cut the appliqué pieces means I can get really creative with the shapes and fabrics I incorporate into the quilt.
For one quilt project, I decided to use my laser-cut appliqué pieces to bring in vibrant colors and unique patterns. By combining embroidered details with these appliqué shapes, I added depth and interest to the quilt without overwhelming it. The laser allowed me to experiment with designs that would have been far more challenging or time-consuming to execute with scissors or a rotary cutter.
Quilting and embroidery are traditional crafts that have been passed down for generations, but incorporating laser-cut appliqué brings a modern twist. For me, it’s been about blending the best of
both worlds—honoring the time-honored techniques of quilting and embroidery while embracing the precision and versatility of modern technology.
For instance, with the help of my laser, I’ve been able to create intricate designs that would be difficult, if not impossible, to replicate by hand. Whether it’s cutting twill for a sports-themed appliqué or creating delicate floral designs, the laser opens up new avenues for creativity. Yet, the craft remains personal and hands-on, as I still spend hours at my embroidery machine, stitching designs with care and precision.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of my laser journey has been the ability to create custom acrylic templates. These templates have been a game-changer in my quilting and embroidery projects. When making something like a baby burping bib or a quilt, having a reliable template ensures that each piece of fabric is cut to the exact size and shape needed. The templates offer consistency, especially when working on larger projects or multiple items.
For example, when I made a baby quilt featuring laser-cut appliqué animals, the acrylic templates ensured that each animal silhouette was consistent throughout the quilt. This not only added a cohesive look to the finished product but also made the entire process faster and more enjoyable.
It’s incredibly satisfying to see the practical and aesthetic results of blending embroidery, lasers, and quilting. Thanks to the intersection of these
three crafts, I’ve made everything from personalized baby burping bibs to quilts with intricate designs. The versatility of the laser cutter allows me to create one-of-a-kind items that are both fun and functional.
For instance, when I designed a quilt with laser-cut appliqué flowers, it wasn’t just about the beauty of the design—it was about creating something that could be cherished and used every day. Similarly, the baby bibs I’ve embroidered and appliquéd are not only adorable but also practical, making them a hit at baby showers.
If you’re new to using a laser for fabric cutting, it can seem a little daunting. But with the right approach and tools, working with fabric in your laser can be fun and efficient. Here are five tips to help you get started:
1. Keep Your Fabric Clean: Fabric tends to pick up lint and dust, which can interfere with laser cutting. Make sure your workspace is clean, and consider using a lint roller or compressed air to remove debris from the fabric before placing it in the laser. This ensures a clean cut and prevents unnecessary burn marks.
2. Pin or Tape Down the Fabric: Fabric can shift easily while in the laser bed, leading to uneven cuts. To avoid this, secure your fabric by pinning it to a piece of sacrificial material, like a wood or acrylic sheet, or use painter’s tape to keep it in place. This method ensures that your fabric stays flat and the cuts are more precise.
3. Adjust Laser Settings for Different Fabrics: Different fabrics require different settings for optimal cutting. For thinner fabrics like cotton, you may need to reduce the laser power and increase the speed to avoid burning the material. For thicker fabrics like twill, you can increase the power for a clean cut. Always do a small test cut on a scrap piece of fabric to find the right settings for your project.
4. Keep the Fabric Taut: Loose fabric can lead to
inaccurate cuts or uneven edges. Use clamps or pins to keep the fabric taut and secure in the laser bed. If your fabric has some stretch, be sure to pull it evenly so that it remains in its original shape throughout the cutting process.
5. Watch for Burn Marks: Some fabrics, particularly synthetic blends, can develop scorch marks when exposed to the laser’s heat. To minimize this, lower the laser’s power and increase the speed. You can also place a damp sheet of paper towel or fabric on top of your material as a protective layer to absorb excess heat.
If you love embroidery, quilting, or crafting in general, I encourage you to explore how a laser cutter can enhance your creative process. The intersection of these techniques offers endless possibilities for new designs and ideas. Whether it’s cutting appliqué shapes, creating custom templates, or blending embroidery with quilting, the journey is both fun and rewarding.
For me, it’s the excitement of trying something new, the satisfaction of making something beautiful, and the joy of knowing that I’ve merged the old with the new in ways that are both meaningful and innovative. When embroidery, lasers, and quilting intersect, the result is always something special.
Shon Amacker is a global technology executive with over 15 years of experience in IT, cybersecurity, and DEI advocacy, leading innovations across industries. Passionate about community outreach, she mentors underrepresented groups, supports women’s health, and runs Geaux Savvy Designs, blending her technical expertise with creative ventures in embroidery and laser cutting.
Social Media Links: YT - @geauxsavvydesignbyshon, FB, IG, Pinterest – GeauxSavvyDesigns
designs. Whether for signage, packaging inserts, or artistic displays, the combination of laser engraving and custom-painted foam offers endless possibilities for creative expression.
Polystyrene foam is a powerful material for laser engravers when handled with care. Its versatility makes it ideal for everything from artistic projects to functional designs, and when you follow the right techniques, you can avoid common pitfalls like melting or warping. Whether you’re creating packaging, signage, or prototypes, this material offers unique benefits to help expand your laser engraving repertoire.
By mastering the use of polystyrene foam, you open up new creative possibilities that will set your work apart. Just remember to always prioritize safety and let your imagination take the lead!
Alisha Pate and her husband James are partners in Pate Ranch Creations. You can find them on Facebook and Instagram.
Send us an email at project@LaserFocusedMagazine.com with your project idea!
Kim & Garrett’s newest addition to their business is their Patreon – a place where patrons can enjoy content, after-shows, and monthly SVGs direct from Kim & Garrett. Like much of their business, their Patreon has grown organically. While many of their patrons are happy to discuss crafting on their group zoom calls, people interested in the business side needed more information. “We created a separate tier,” Kim tells us. “It’s a riff on our slogan: Do it, Build it, Make it. [We call it] Master It. It’s really focused on business: how to do your social media posts, how to use Canva for business. We do deeper dives for this tier of patrons.”
Though this was a necessary addition to the business, creating the new tier doubled their work. “We asked a group of folks who were very active and involved who already had their businesses to work with us and create a Mentor Program. We mentor them, they mentor others.” If you think this might be a useful tool for your business, Kim & Garrett encourage you to check it out!
Between adding the Master It tier to their Patreon, starting the paint business, and purchasing a brand-new UV printer, Kim & Garrett have a lot on their plate. Still, they’re able to attend some craft shows. “The three big ones in September, October, November are where we’re out. We try to bring more inventory to the big shows. And we stay local – we’re in Virginia, so we hit the big shows here.”
Craft shows can use up time that could be put towards production, Garrett says. But in addition to that, they want to make sure they aren’t overshadowing small businesses that might be there selling Kim & Garrett’s designs. “If a patron shows up with our designs, we’ll kind of shrink back. We’re not trying to step on their toes.”
Kim & Garrett’s business continues to be a family affair – in addition to a full-time painter, they’ve
also brought on Tanner, their oldest son, to be the Production & Warehouse Manager. But they’re open to further growth, exploring how they might bring on more team members to help expand their paint business and social media presence. This expansion is where Kim’s expertise from working at the Federal Reserve comes into play. “I was always in a leadership role, thinking about growing the business as a team. Motivating a team, thinking about goals, planning for the future. All of that came from being at the bank.”
Kim’s best advice: It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you. “That came from a little sales book I had. Get out there and meet people. Making those connections is so important. That’s how you grow your business and show people who you are.”
Garrett’s best advice: Luck is when opportunity meets preparation. “We’ve come across people who had opportunities for us, and because they knew who we were and we were prepared, it really worked out.” It’s safe to say that Kim & Garrett are always working to prepare for whatever opportunities might arise!
Both Kim and Garrett have adopted advice that Garrett got years ago, from a dear friend who was on his deathbed at 50 years old. It’s advice that can inform the time you spend on your business, on your crafting, and on your time with family and friends: “Listen. Life is short and unexpected. Go have fun.”
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Kim and Garrett inspire laser crafters through their entertaining YouTube tutorials. They offer laser supplies, unfinished craft kits, and Foxy Hues Paints.
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