Until recently, I thought that laser cutting is reserved for people with huge workshops and a nice budget. Then, I found out that laser engraves are actually pretty capable laser cutters. Laser engravers (based on diode lasers instead of CO2 lasers) are smaller and much more affordable. I bought an xTool D1 (10W module) and I was surprised of how well it works. It actually replaced many of the tools I used since making small creations is much easier now.
Roll-top pencil case
I made a wooden pencil case with a rolling top. Moving the shutter makes the most satisfying sound. I designed it using Boxes.py.
Sliding-lid pencil case
I designed a few pencil cases based on a boxes.py generator with a few changes and decorations.
Wooden Vases
I designed these lampshades in OnShape and cut them out of 3 mm wood. You can find the free files in the instructables article.
Sewing box
Table lamp
made a wooden table lamp.The sides are made of 3mm plywood and the bottom / top parts are made of 6mm plywood (painted poplar plywood in both cases).
You can find files and assembly instructions in the instructables article.
Pendant light lampshade
A couple of laser cut lampshades I made for my workshop. Assembly is similar to the table lamp.
Lampshade (wall-mounted)
A lampshade I designed based on a box generator from boxes.py with a few changes. Learn how to design and assemble yours 🙂
Glass engraving
I love engraving glass on a laser – it turns out classy and clean. But you can’t just point a diode laser on glass because the laser beam will go right through. To solve this issue, I coat glass with diluted Gouache paint before laser engraving. Designs are available in the instructables article.
Air assist upgrade for xTool D1
I upgraded my laser cutter by adding an air assist. The air assist aims a jet of air at the region being cut by the laser, preventing char build-up and increasing the laser efficiency.
Nir Livne 