In this past decade, we saw a huge boost in technology for almost every industry. So many things have become improves, more efficient, smaller, and inexpensive. For example, phones are now is powerful as entire computers and caused just around $500. Desktop PCs are also quite powerful for a fraction of the price of a PC from 10 years ago. Another very impressive technological advancement that happened in this decade was in the laser engraving industry. Many laser engravers can be bought for around $200 or maybe even less.
The idea that the average citizen can afford to purchase a device that can engrave any kind of material or cut it is simply amazing. In the past, the only way you could laser engrave anything was by using the company’s services. These companies had machines that would cost up to $10,000 just so they can cut into small objects made out of plastic, glass, or metal.
So, you have easy access to a mini laser engraver, but what can you do with it, and do you really need one? Well, considering how inexpensive they are, it will not hurt your wallet to buy one and try it out.
In this 2024 guide, I am going to tell you about all the fun and crafty uses I could find online for this kind of a machine. I hope I will motivate you to create a unique gift for your friends, family members, or even for yourself.
Custom metal keychain
Stainless steel, copper, tin, and other metals are very strong, durable, and heavy materials. Because of these very strong properties, people make them in all kinds of different objects. Personally, I love small objects such as coins, keys, or keychains that are made out of stainless steel. I love the feel of something that is so small and heavy at the same time.
I think I can safely say that this is a thought that is shared with lots of people around the world. Humans have been creating such objects since ancient history.
So, maybe you should use that to your advantage. Make something that will seem high quality and that can be used on a daily basis. What is the first thing that you think of? I am thinking of a custom made metal keychain. It is easy to make, it is inexpensive and you can get as creative as you want.
You can make it for yourself or you can give it to a close friend, family member, or partner as a gift. I assure you that they will love this metal keychain.
Custom wooden keychain
While most people love small items made out of stainless steel or other metal material, there are also some people that love wooden objects. Carved sculptures have also been a huge part of human history. Fortunately, with a mini laser engraver, you can easily make a wooden keychain with all kinds of engravings on it.
Keep in mind, would is not as hard or durable as steel, so you will have to adjust the strength of the laser otherwise you could burn the material too much. Other than that, the entire process is quite simple. Even if you do make a mistake, you can always start again because wood is an inexpensive material.
For this kind of engravings, I would suggest checking out the New Model 20 Watt handheld laser engraver which you can find at Hispeedlaser. With its high-quality fiber laser generator, you can cut with precision into the wood.
However, if you plan on engraving on a much more expensive wood, I would suggest that you practice on something a little bit more inexpensive.
Decorate your Shoes
I know, this might seem like a crazy idea to you, but to the people that are very familiar with the laser cutting world, this is quite normal. If you can make a clean cut into stainless steel and in wood, you are certainly able to cut into much weaker materials.
Of course, you will have to be very careful not to permanently damage your shoes or to mess up the design. Just like with the custom wooden keychain, I recommend practicing the design that you want on a similar material first and then going with issues.
If your project is successful, everyone will notice your crazing your design on your shoes. Everyone will also want a pair like yours, but they will not be able to find that kind of shoe.
Wooden wall art
Wood is a very versatile material and you can do and use it for anything that you can think of. You can put it on your floor, on your desk, on your walls, or even on your ceiling.
So, if you ever feel like the declaration in your room seems poor or empty, why not create something unique for yourself? Get yourself a nice piece of Oakwood or Pinewood, cut it into a circle, rectangle, triangle, or any other shape that you want. Keep in mind, this will be the shape that will be attached to your wall.
Your next step will be to think of a unique design. It does not have to be to unique, you can always use the Internet where you will be able to copy a few ideas.
Once it is done, you can finally add it to your wall and make your room seem a lot more special.
Custom picture frames
Another way you can make your home a little bit more interesting is by removing all of your old picture frames and replacing them with your own designs. Whether you want your new picture frames to be made out of plastic, wood, or metal, it is up to you.
You can make the picture frames be anything you want. If the design seems too tacky or ugly, you can always change it back to your old picture frame or making a new one. The possibilities are endless.
There are probably thousands of other uses for many laser engravers that you can find online. But, I think that these five ideas are shared are quite an interesting option.