Laser Engraver Easy Waste Board - Design Your Own in Lightburn - PART 1 Mr Craftsmith 2023-01-31 | This is a 2 part series where I show you in this video how to easily design your own Laser Engraving Waste Board directly in Lightburn software.The purpose of a waste board is to help you easily align your work to be engraved in the perfect position every time so you don't waste time having to re-do jobs.It also protects your own furniture from "silly mistakes" that may happen from time to time.In the next video in this series, I'll engrave the design and set-up my Ortur Laser Master 3 and "attach" it to the waste board, with a couple of little tricks to make sure you get perfect allignment every time. Here's the link for that video youtu.be/zuqAwdt-4nYThanks for watching, be creative and stay grateful. :)
SIDE HUSTLE CONFESSIONS: The Burnout Battle - Listen to Your Body!!! Mr Craftsmith 2024-08-03 | In this raw and honest episode, I share my personal struggles with burnout while juggling a full-time business and starting a side hustle. Learn the warning signs and how I'm prioritizing my wellbeing.If you're feeling overwhelmed, this video is a reminder that your body knows best – listen to it before it's too late.
ALL NEW - Atomstack Ace Pro V2 - BEST 24W BUDGET DIODE LASER??? Mr Craftsmith 2024-05-12 | Out with the old in with the new with the AtomStack Ace Pro V2 24W Laser! | Full Review + Discount Code🚀 Are you ready to take your crafting to the next level? Today, I dive into the AtomStack Ace Pro V2 24W laser engraver — a powerhouse tool that could be the perfect beginner-friendly laser that grows with you. Whether you're a hobbyist diving into new projects or looking to upgrade your gear, this laser might just change the game for you!🔥 EXCLUSIVE 20% DISCOUNT INSIDE — Watch through to grab a special discount code exclusive to my viewers, and snag an amazing deal on this versatile laser!🛠️ What's in the video?Unboxing & First Impressions: Get a close look at what the AtomStack Ace Pro V2 24W packs straight out of the box!Power and Precision: Demonstrations of the laser cutting and engraving across different materials.Special Offer Details: How to use the exclusive discount code for substantial savings.📏 Specifications Breakdown:Laser Power Real-World TestsSpeed and Accuracy for Various MaterialsGrab your AtomStack Ace Pro V2 - head to www.atomstack.com to see their full range🎥 Why this video?I'm Darren from Mr Craftsmith, and I've been exploring tools that make crafting not only enjoyable but also profitable. If you've followed my series on setting up a side hustle, you know I only bring up gear that makes a real difference to me. The AtomStack Ace Pro V2 24W is no exception, and with the limited-time discount, it’s a steal!👍 Like, Comment, and Subscribe for more reviews, tips, and craft ideas that empower your creativity.💬 Questions? Drop them in the comments — I love helping out fellow crafters get the most from their tools!
Will They Sell? PRODUCTS REVEALED! My NEW Laser Engraving Side Hustle Mr Craftsmith 2024-05-05 | Welcome back to the Little Side Hustle Experiment Express! Today, we're diving deep into my side hustle journey, exploring how I'm uncovering the perfect products for my target market.In our last episode, we talked about the missing piece in the side hustle puzzle: understanding your audience before choosing what to sell. Now, we're applying this principle to two niche markets.Join me as we unravel the secrets behind selecting the ideal products to meet these audiences' needs. Personalisation is the theme, we're diving into the strategies that will hopefully set me up for success in this side hustle adventure.Stay tuned for the next episode, where we'll take a closer look at the production process and the tools I'll be using to bring these products to life.Thanks for joining me on this journey. Until next time, keep exploring and stay curious!
Learn Lightburn Software - 2 Minute Tech Tip - Circular Array Tool and Notching Mr Craftsmith 2024-04-28 | Unlock the Power of Circular Array Tool in LightBurnWelcome to my super quick tutorial on using the Circular Array Tool in LightBurn! In just two minutes, you’ll learn how to use this powerful tool to create circular patterns quick and easy without all the fluff.Drop your questions or suggestions for more 2 minute tech tips in the comments below, and share your own experiences with the Circular Array Tool!
From Ideas to Income: Starting a Laser Engraving Side Hustle selling Laser Projects that SELL FAST Mr Craftsmith 2024-04-20 | 🌟 Welcome to my laser engraving journey! 🌟 Are you fascinated by the idea of turning a simple hobby into a profitable side hustle? You're in the right place! In today's video, I dive into the world of laser engraving to see if those popular YouTube project ideas really can make money.What to Expect in This Video:The Experiment Begins: I've watched hours of videos claiming that some laser engraved products are a surefire way to earn. Now, it's time to test these claims myself!Choosing Projects: Watch as I sift through the most hyped laser project ideas and pick which ones to try first.Engage & Influence: Your feedback matters! Suggest products you believe should make the cut and be featured in our tests.Why Watch?Real-Time Learning: See the trials and triumphs of starting a laser engraving business from scratch.Community Interaction: I value your insights! Join the discussion in the comments—suggest, advise, and maybe see your idea in the next video.Transparent Results: No fluff. I'll share the genuine potential of these side hustle ideas, backed by real sales data.📈 Follow My Journey:Stay updated on this series and more by subscribing and hitting the notification bell. I'm here to demystify the process of starting a successful laser engraving side hustle, and I want you all to be part of it!👇 Drop Your Suggestions:What products have you seen that you think could be profitable? Let me know in the comments below, and they might just be featured in my tests!
SCULPFUN Compact & Affordable iCube PRO 10W Diode Laser - the no BS Review Mr Craftsmith 2024-03-31 | 👋 G'day, crafters and creators! Darren here from Mr Craftsmith, bringing you an Aussie take on the world of compact laser engraving. Today, I've got a real treat for those of you tight on space, not keen on splurging, and eager to skip the setup fuss.📦 In this video, I'm unboxing the Sculpfun iCube Pro 10W Desktop Diode Laser – a nifty little machine that might just become your new favourite sidekick in your crafting adventures.✨ Simple assembly? You bet – a single thumbscrew and some power is all it takes to bring this laser to life.🔍 I'll delve into its features, from its tiny footprint to its smart design tailored for smaller projects. Perfect for the hobby room or even alongside your computer – it's all about making the most of what you've got.💡 But it's not all smooth sailing – I'll share some of the quirks I've encountered and the DIY fixes that keep the craft flowing.🌟 So whether you're new to the game or looking for a handy companion for your bigger machines, this video is chock-full of insights, tips, and real-talk review points.🔗 Links to the Sculpfun iCube Pro are below – using them helps support the channel at no extra cost to you.👇 Check it out and let's start engraving!AFFILIATE PURCHASE LINK - bit.ly/47MmlHt?ref=mrcraftsmithSculpfun Channel - youtube.com/@SCULPFUNReal📌 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more crafty content and honest reviews. Got questions or your own tips? Drop them in the comments – let's make this channel a resourceful community!
WHATS NEW in 2024 for Desktop Diode Laser Engravers - CRAZY POWER to RIVAL CO2 LASERS Mr Craftsmith 2024-02-26 | 🔥 The Ultimate Diode Laser Engraver Guide 2024 🔥Are you on the hunt for the perfect diode laser engraver but feeling overwhelmed by the options? Look no further! In today's video, we dive deep into the world of diode lasers, comparing a bunch of NEW models from all the popular manufacturers, including: Acmer, AlgoLaser, Atezr, Atomstack, Creality, Elegoo, LaserPecker, Longer, Neje, Omtech, Ortur, Roly Automation, Sculpfun, WeCreat & xTool to help you make an informed decision. Whether you're a hobbyist, a DIY enthusiast, or a professional looking for precision and versatility, I've got you covered.👉 WHAT I COVER:Budgeting Smartly: How to consider all costs, not just the initial price.Material Matters: Ensuring compatibility with your projects.Power Plays: Finding the right laser power for your needs.Accessories & Upgrades: Expanding what you can do.Manufacturer Support: Choosing a brand that stands behind their product.Plus, we're taking a fresh look at what's changed in the last 12 months, highlighting the latest models and technological advancements.💬 LET'S CONNECT:Your insights and questions enrich our community. Drop a comment below to share your thoughts or ask questions. Let's help each other make the best purchasing decisions!👍 If you find this video helpful, please give it a like, and consider subscribing to our channel for more insightful guides and tips. Your support helps us create content that empowers you in your creative pursuits.🔗 EXCLUSIVE SPREADSHEET LINK: pages.mrcraftsmith.com/2024lasersRemember, the right diode laser engraver can elevate your projects from good to great. Let's explore together and find the perfect match for your needs. Thanks for watching, and see you in the next video!#DiodeLaserEngraver #LaserEngraving #DIYProjects #TechReviews #CreativeTools"
Make More Sales Laser Engraving WITHOUT SELLING a Single Product??? Mr Craftsmith 2023-11-24 | In this video, I unveil a simple approach to attracting the right customers through social media, without the pressure of a direct sell.Join me as I share my personal experience of how an authentic post about a laser engraving project for my mother-in-law sparked genuine interest and led to meaningful sales, all without a traditional sales pitch.Dive into the details as I break down:WHY: Understanding the power of authentic engagement over direct selling.WHAT: The content and emotional appeal that made my post stand out.HOW: Crafting posts that attract genuine interest and inquiries.🌟 Special Offer for Viewers!I've compiled these insights into a Free Guide: "BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO PERSONAL SOCIAL MEDIA POSTING FOR YOUR HOBBY".This guide is designed to help you replicate this strategy, showing you how to create posts that attract the right customers while staying true to your passion.🔗 Download the Free Guide Here: tinyurl.com/mrcraftsmithsocialThis video isn't necessarily about being a success story; it’s a blueprint for hobbyists and creators who want to attract customers subtly and authentically. Whether you're a craftsman, artist, or hobby enthusiast, these insights can help you turn your passion into opportunities.➡️ Engage and Share: If you found this video helpful, please like, share, and subscribe for more content on creative and authentic marketing strategies. Drop your thoughts or experiences in the comments – I'd love to hear how you connect with your audience!
FREE Laser Engraving Resources EVERY Enthusiast Should Know! Mr Craftsmith 2023-10-28 | Hey everyone! In today's video, I'm excited to share with you a goldmine of FREE resources perfect for laser engraving. Whether you're a newbie just dipping your toes into the world of laser engraving or a seasoned enthusiast looking for fresh inspiration, this is the video you have been longing for! 🔥I've scoured the web and compiled a list of fantastic websites that offer high-quality, free resources tailored for laser projects. From intricate patterns to unique designs and projects, these websites have got you covered. Say goodbye to creative blocks and hello to endless laser crafting possibilities! ✨✅ What's inside this video:A quick introduction to Copyright and why it's importantA breakdown of each resource siteTips on how to effectively use these resourcesDon't forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more laser engraving tips, tricks, and resources.As promised if you made it to the end of the video you'll be looking for this link to get a FREE copy of the spreadsheet containing all of the sites I showed in the video plus many more.... Here is the link:tinyurl.com/mrcraftsmithfreebiesHappy engraving, everyone! 🌟
Are you wasting money buying a 10w Diode Laser in 2023?? Mr Craftsmith 2023-10-08 | With the advent of higher powered diode lasers on the market I have recently been hearing in certain forums about the irrelevance of lower powered diode lasers "don't waste your money buying a 10W laser!!", "buy once, cry once!!" and similar type statements.In this video I explore the idea of these kind of statements as I review the Sculpfun 10W S30 Pro Diode Laser.If you are brand new to laser engraving there are many factors to consider, and one of the most important decisions centres are how much you can afford to spend.Follow along as I bring you the PRO's and CON's of owing a 10W Diode Laser, and my thoughts on the Sculpfun S30 PRO Diode Laser.If you are interested in purchasing the S30 PRO, follow this link - bit.ly/442IKy2 - I am not affiiliated with Sculpfun this is just their direct link to this laser.In the video I mention Lightburn Software - the software of choice for many in the laser engraving space - here is a link to their website - they offer a free trial and I would encourage you to try before you buy - lightburnsoftware.comI also mention Free Mascot branded laser engraving safety glasses - here is a link to where you can purchase them - amazon.com/Professional-190nm-490nm-Wavelength-Violet-Glasses/dp/B07DCRR8NG?ref_=ast_sto_dp
Sneaky Grid Array Custom Checkerboard Design in a just a Few Clicks Mr Craftsmith 2023-05-21 | Using Lightburn Software, learn how with a sneaky little slider you can create perfect checker board designs in just a few simple clicks. I take it a step further by showing you how you can customise your design to suit any niche audience.The best Laser Engraving/Cutting software - Lightburn Software - lightburnsoftware.com
Massive Time Saver - Lightburn Software - Variable Text - Revealing its Superpowers Mr Craftsmith 2023-05-14 | Time is the number one commodity that for most of us it seems to be in short supply. What if I could show you some methods that could potentially save you hours on creating projects, would it be worth spending the next 20 minutes finding out how? Lightburn Software has a really cool function that allows you the super power to utilise data to create multiple designs with variable text with your laser engraving designs. I show you how this works and a really cool little bonus at the end to help you when you are stuck for ideas.
Lightburn Software Fundamentals - Making Shapes & Art Libraries Mr Craftsmith 2023-05-08 | If you are just getting started with the exciting world of Laser Engraving, chances are you have come across Lightburn software - which is the mainstay program for the majority of laser users. It can be daunting learning a new program and particularly understanding the tools available, in this video I cover the basics of using the shape tools and joining shapes to make new more complex shapes, plus using the circular array tool which can make some really cool designs, just experiment and have fun as you learn the basics of creating your own artworks you can engrave or cut yourself.Lightburn software - lightburnsoftware.com
Whats KERF? How to control it in Lightburn on your Diode Laser for PERFECT fitting Jigsaw Puzzles Mr Craftsmith 2023-04-30 | Understanding what Kerf is and how to control it, will ultimately give you better outcomes on your Laser projects.I run through the example of how to create a perfect fitting jigsaw with a couple of extra steps, and I talk about how kerf applies to other types of projects and how you can set yourself apart form the competition. Software link - ImagR - imag-r.com
Easy Laser Engraving Cutting Project for Mothers Day Gift Mr Craftsmith 2023-04-12 | Everyone knows that our Mothers are incredible people, and it doesn't hurt to remind them how much they mean to us with this cute little laser project that you can create for your own Mum or maybe even offer as a product to family and friends. I'll take you through the design process in Imag-R, Adobe Illustrator and of course, our favourite laser cutting/engraving software...Lightburn - I hope you enjoy and as always if you have any questions, hit me up in the comments.Image file preparation software: imag-r.comLaser engraving/cutting software: lightburnsoftware.com
Midjourneys new command prompt DESCRIBE game changer for laser engravers artwork design Mr Craftsmith 2023-04-06 | Frustrated with Midjourney prompts??? Been there, done that. Well the game has changed!!A new command prompt "/describe" is about to change your world. Midjourney now allows you to upload an image and it will give YOU a description of that image. Yep, you can now reverse engineer images to understand what prompts might give you better results with your image generation.
Step by Step Guide - Design & Laser Cut your Own Flatpack Boxes from Recycled Cardboard! Mr Craftsmith 2023-04-01 | Making hand crafted products is a lot of fun, and making the packaging for those items is easier than you might think.In this video I take you step by step through the design process of creating your own small flatpack laser cut box made from recycled packing boxes laying around the workshop.Not only is it good to recycle, but it might save you a few bucks in the process.
Watch This BEFORE you Buy a Desktop Diode Laser! Mr Craftsmith 2023-03-22 | When you are brand new to a hobby like Laser Engraving it can be super daunting knowing which diode laser to invest in when you know very little about them and what they are capable of outputting. You look at various groups in social media platforms, but it can be scary place sometimes asking basic questions when there are sooo many "old hands" ridiculing you for asking such a simple question. Well...Good News!!!!I went through the same process only a few short months ago, and it got me thinking, now I know the basics I should put together a guide to help brand new buyers with what they need to look out for when getting started in this awesome hobby.I run through the basic questions you first need to ask yourself about how much you need to budget, what type of materials are you going to use, and a whole bunch more.Then I run through all of the popular manufacturers models like Ortur, xTool, Sculpfun, Atomstack and many more in each power category 5W, 10W and +20W so you can compare them all in the one place.To top it off, I have compiled all of the data into a spreadsheet that I'm happy to share so you don't have to go scouring the internet to find out all of the info...pretty cool huh? Just pop your request in the comments and I'll shoot you the link.Some of the product links in the spreadsheet are Affiliate links and I have labelled them in the adjoining column - whereby I receive a small commission if you buy any products using that link - it does not cost you anything extra as the buyer, it's a small way you can support this channel if you find the content helpful.The software I mention in the video - LaserGRBL - a free program for PC users (please consider donating if you find it valuable, I'm not affiliated in any way with that program, I just think it's good to support those willing to support the user base) - lasergrbl.comThe paid software I mention is Lightburn, and is the program I use for all my diode laser work - they do offer a 30 day free trial so you have nothing to lose - lightburnsoftware.comHappy Lasering :)
UPDATE - Photo Engraving on Slate - What Ive discovered since the first video? Mr Craftsmith 2023-03-17 | I have had some valuable feedback from industry experts regarding the behaviours exhibited by Diode Lasers.I run through what I have learnt and the impact this can have on your engravings.Without this understanding, we are literally flying blind and HOPING by moving a few sliders we get a good outcome, and sometimes you will for sure.What I want you to take away from this video is a level of understanding so that you can process images confidently knowing how your laser is going to react, giving you repeatable results. Enjoy :)
Lightburn Trace Tool - Beginners Guide to Getting it Right for Better Results Mr Craftsmith 2023-03-10 | Soooo many times I see comments in forums and groups about using the Lightburn software trace tool and one of the most common responses is "Just play with the sliders till you get what you want" - I get it, it's an easy response but doesn't necessarily provide the understanding how to get consistent results. It's important to understand HOW the tools work so you get better results on repeat.In this video (yes, it's a bit of a long one!!) I cover all of the basics and what the sliders do and show examples to help you understand what you are working with so you can then apply this knowledge to your next laser project.
Learn to Engrave your Photos on Wood - what you need to know for better results! Mr Craftsmith 2023-03-05 | "Wooden" it be nice if laser engraving photos was as simple as pressing play on your laser engraver. While it may take a few more steps and a touch of finesse, you can learn to engrave photos on wood with confidence and get better results by following the steps outlined in this video.If you want to learn how to engrave photos on Slate Coasters watch this video youtu.be/BDjEx_Nc31QIf you want to learn the Norton White Tile Method for white ceramic tiles - watch this video youtu.be/BN2gVewIfsQ
Norton White Tile Method - Whats the Trick to Getting Great Results??? Mr Craftsmith 2023-02-23 | Since starting this Laser Engraving hobby only a few short months ago, my interest was peaked one day when I saw some people etching white tiles with white paint and getting a black engraving...WHAT?? How on earth does that work, I pondered. It turns out there are a few key considerations to getting it "right".In this video I step through my findings along what seems the sometimes torturous path to understanding how this process works, and share how you can fast-track your progress to getting better white tile engravings on your laser.Amazon link - Titanium Dioxide Powder - tinyurl.com/59atxzbj
Laser Engraving: Your Golden Ticket to Repeatable Precision Engraving Success Mr Craftsmith 2023-02-11 | I don't know about you, but when I first got my hobby laser, The Ortur Laser Master 3, I was a bit confused how I could get accurate placement of my engravings. I could get pretty close, but nowhere near perfect. Once I dug a little deeper it all started to make more sense.This video is PART 3 in the series of designing, engraving and using a waste board grid to mazimize your accuracy and efficiency when engraving single or multiple items. The key to this video is understanding the job starting point terminology in Lightburn software, I run through each of the examples to give you that light bulb moment where it clicks for you to.In PART 1 - youtu.be/3M688d7eo-o - I run through the basic concepts of how you can simply design your own custom waste board directly in Lightburn software in just a matter of minutes.In PART 2 - youtu.be/zuqAwdt-4nY - I engrave the waste board directly onto a MDF baseboard and secure the laser with base mounts to ensure consistent results every time.
No More CROOKED jobs - Step-by-Step Setup of Your Custom Waste Board for Perfect Engraving - Part 2 Mr Craftsmith 2023-02-05 | In Part 1 of this series - youtu.be/3M688d7eo-o - I showed you how simple it is to design your own custom waste board for your hobby laser engraver directly in Lightburn in only a few minutes.Now that we have the Lightburn file ready to go, it's time to make it happen.In this video I run through:1. The steps to setup your waste board2. The reasons you might want to have a seperate waste board.3. How you can make sure that you can perfectly position and align your laser every time, even with your eyes closed.I hope you find this video helpful and takes you a step closer to achieving your laser engraving goals.Here is the link for the 3D design Ortur Laser Master 3 base mounts shown in the video.tinyurl.com/yh8864xp
Create Your Own Grayscale Test Grid for Diode Laser Photo Engraving Mr Craftsmith 2023-02-02 | In my video "Photo Engraving on Slate with a Diode Laser" youtu.be/BDjEx_Nc31Q I talk about establishing your laser's dynamic range by using a grayscale test grid. A number of viewers reached out to me about how to create such a test grid.This is a super quick video to show you how you can do this yourself in any graphics program.Once you understand the limitations of your laser, the better you will be prepared to create better photo engravings on any material.
Photo Engraving on Slate with a Diode Laser Mr Craftsmith 2023-01-28 | How hard can it be right? WRONG!! Engraving photos on slate coasters with my Ortur Laser Master 3 diode laser using Imag-R and Lightburn software.I explain how I went from substandard to sublime results, using material tests and output levels to fine tune my engrave. It's a bit of a long one but worth watching till the end to get a full understanding of how you to can improve you photo engraves on slate.
Lightburn Faster Burn Times with Offset Fill Mr Craftsmith 2023-01-25 | I have heard a lot of conversations around offset fill and how it makes engrave times quicker. After some investigation, I found this to be true, however there are some things you need to understand when engraving your laser projects. I cover a couple of scenarios to look out for, plus we also look at the cut shapes tool to optimize shapes for faster engraving on your diode laser.We covered the basic techniques in this video youtu.be/ZhWFqndhR-I
Diode Lasers - 3X Faster Burn Times in Lightburn Mr Craftsmith 2023-01-24 | Use these tips shown in this video to reduce your project burn times in Lightburn software. Diode lasers aren't considered the quickest lasers, so the more time we can save using these techniques offering a reduction in engraving time, the more fun you get to have with other projects.How much time do you think you can save???You might be surprised when you see the results!
