Laser Cutting

Introduction

Life has been challenging for me since acquiring a Spinal Cord Injury in 2009. However, I enjoy learning new skills. My local University of the Third Age invited me to the Port Adelaide Enfield Council’s Makerspace facility. I became interested in laser cutting, and after many months of vaporising materials, making mistakes, and a few artwork and toys, I purchased a laser cutter for my home.

Laser cutting is now one of my favourite hobbies. I still make mistakes, but I’m progressing towards becoming more skilled in laser cutting. Now, I share my experiences and knowledge gained via this site. I’ve included the equipment, materials, and tools I used to produce my favourite laser cutting projects, and tips and tricks to help you craft.

What’s the next step for my laser cutting hobby? I don’t know. I could get involved in producing items sold at markets or online. I live in Adelaide, South Australia, and welcome any suggestions about the future. Please don’t hesitate to contact me here.

Laser cutting equipment

This image shows a home laser cutting setup. On a sturdy black table sits a large laser cutter machine, the xTool P2, with a clear window for viewing the cutting process. Beneath the table, there is a connected air filter system with black vent hoses, used to safely filter fumes. To the right, a yellow duster, cleaning supplies, and storage containers are neatly placed, contributing to a clean, organized workspace. laser cutting

Please visit the laser cutting equipment page for more detailed information about the equipment in my garage. The page includes features, tips, and tricks for where to purchase the equipment.

Laser cutting materials

A neatly stacked pile of plywood and MDF sheets in various thicknesses is arranged on a wooden workbench. The smooth surfaces and uniform sizes suggest the materials are prepared for laser cutting or woodworking projects. The sheets are organized in a way that reflects a well-maintained, functional workshop environment, ready for creative production.

Please visit the laser cutting materials page for detailed information on each material, including photos, descriptions, and where you can purchase them, or click on the links below.

Materials to cut, score, engrave

  • Plywood is a multi-layered wood sheet commonly used in construction and furniture making.
  • Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is an engineered wood product from compressed wood fibres.
  • Acrylic is a durable, versatile plastic, perfect for laser cutting clear, coloured, or frosted designs.
  • Bamboo Magnetic Bottle Opener has a magnetic back. It is eco-friendly and stylish for everyday use.
  • Black slate coasters, laser-cut and engraved, are durable and elegant. They are perfect for protecting surfaces and adding décor.
  • Wooden key chains are simple, stylish, and perfect for any occasion. They can be customisable for personalised gifts or promotional items.
  • Wooden key chains with bottle openers are multi-functional and combine practicality, personalisation, and a built-in bottle opener.

Materials to complete the item

  • Spray paint – A quick-drying paint dispensed in aerosol form, ideal for covering surfaces smoothly and evenly.
  • Paint – A liquid or semi-liquid mixture coats surfaces, providing colour, protection, and texture.
  • Wood stain – A pigmented solution applied to wood to enhance its natural grain and add color or protection.
  • Wood dye – A liquid colourant penetrating wood fibres, providing rich, even colouring without masking the grain.
  • Clear acrylic gloss spray – A protective clear coat that adds a shiny, durable finish to surfaces while sealing them.
  • Glue – An adhesive substance used to permanently bond materials like plywood, MDF, and acrylic.
  • Borax – Applied on metal or glass before engraving, borax helps create darker and sharper engraving results.
  • Clock mechanisms – Essential parts, like hands and motors, used to assemble and power custom-made clocks.
  • Tassels – Decorative fringed embellishments attached to bookmarks and other items for added flair.

Laser cutting tools

This image shows a clear plastic container filled with various foam paint brushes. The brushes have black foam heads attached to short, wooden or plastic handles. Some brushes have flat, rectangular foam heads, while others are cylindrical, resembling small rollers. The container also holds a few plastic tools, including a large blue handle. These foam brushes are commonly used for applying paint, stain, or varnish to surfaces, providing smooth, even coverage. They are ideal for arts, crafts, and DIY projects.

The laser cutting tools page has detailed information on each tool including photos, description, and where you can purchase the tools or click on the links below.

  • Clamps – Tools used to hold materials in place firmly during gluing tasks.
  • Paint Brushes – Handheld tools with bristles for applying paint to surfaces, available in various shapes and sizes.
  • Black sponge paint brushes – Foam-tipped brushes ideal for smooth paint application on flat surfaces without streaks or brush marks.
  • Sandpaper – Abrasive material used to smooth surfaces before painting or finishing, available in different grit levels.
  • Microfibre cloths – Soft, lint-free cloths ideal for cleaning surfaces and wiping away dust or excess paint.
  • Respirator – A protective face mask filters out harmful fumes or particles during painting or sanding projects.
  • 4ft Bi-Fold Blow Mould Trestle Table – This sturdy, foldable table is often used for workshops, providing a solid workspace for various DIY projects.

74 Laser Cutting Projects

This image shows four laser-cut wooden panels, each depicting a nature scene with a silhouetted foreground and a vibrant, painted background. The panels feature various landscapes, including savannas, wetlands, forests, and mountain ranges. The sun or moon appears in the background, creating a stunning contrast between light and shadow. Each scene is beautifully layered, with intricate cutouts that bring depth and dimension to the artwork, making it an eye-catching and elegant representation of nature's beauty. laser cutting

Are you looking for your next project? My collection of 74 projects includes toys, wall art, clocks and other items. Each project contains photographs of the completed item, links to the design files, project completion times and a guide.

If choosing projects solely based on a title, short description, and tiny image is too tricky, the options below filter the items and provide longer descriptions and a larger photograph of each completed project.

Easy laser cutting projects

Gifts for children
Giraffe Heights: Growing Tall Together
Fun and easy-to-make giraffe height chart for tracking growth		 A wooden giraffe-shaped height chart, laser-cut from plywood, designed to measure children's growth over time. The giraffe features simple, playful lines, with engraved measurement marks along the length of its tall neck. It’s both decorative and functional, offering parents an engaging way to track their child’s height. The chart is designed to be mounted on a wall, with a cute giraffe head at the top and the foot of the giraffe at the base.
Spiderman's webshot
Vibrant Spiderman wall art, with his mask and a web-slinging hand gesture		 Add a superhero touch to your space with this dynamic artwork featuring Spider-Man's iconic mask and web-shooting hand gesture. This vibrant piece captures the essence of the beloved character. Perfect for the bedroom walls of children, it brings action and excitement to their lives.
Snail's Number Spiral Adventure
Fun snail puzzle teaching kids numbers from 1 to 25		 A snail-shaped puzzle with numbered pieces from 1 to 25. The pieces fit into a spiral shape, making it a fun way for kids to learn counting while enhancing their motor skills. Each numbered piece follows the natural curve of the snail's shell.
Solar System Cosmic Puzzle
Fun and educational Solar System puzzle for hands-on learning adventures		 A wooden puzzle featuring the planets of the Solar System, with each planet represented by a small, round piece that fits into a designated orbit on the board. The board is labeled with the names of each planet and includes a detailed background showing the orbits and asteroid belts. The puzzle pieces are intricately engraved with patterns representing the surface of each planet.
Trace 'n' Learn Shapes
Shape Up Your Day: A Colorful Puzzle Party"		 This tactile wooden puzzle set includes twelve blocks, each cut into a different shape and painted in distinct, vibrant colors. Shapes include a triangle, rectangle, star, and more, with each shape's name etched into the corresponding block. The blocks fit into designated slots on a rectangular baseboard, allowing for both tactile exploration and educational engagement.
Dark Knight's Layered Legacy
Create a layered wooden Batman artwork featuring Gotham and Bat-Signal		 This laser-cut art piece portrays Batman standing in the foreground, dressed in his iconic suit with a flowing cape. Behind him, the Gotham City skyline looms, complete with towering buildings and the bright Bat-Signal shining in the sky, summoning him to action. The layered wood design and engraved details add depth and texture, effectively capturing the dark and vigilant nature of the Caped Crusader.
Dark Knight Silhouettes: Batman Wall Art Collection
Bold Batman silhouettes for striking, customizable laser-cut wall decor

Gifts for all ages
Prismatic Prowl
Geometric cat artwork, black outlined, modern, dynamic, and elegant
Puzzling Safari: A Wild Adventure in Every Piece
Create a playful animal puzzle with laser-cut precision today
A Portal to Another Dimension
3D tunnel illusion artwork - a modern, stylish, and captivating design
Stone Rolled Away
Wooden plaque of Matthew 28, featuring three crosses and engaved words
tic-tac-toe fun
Wooden tic-tac-toe set, perfect for creative fun and gifting		 A photograph shows a laser-cut wooden tic-tac-toe board with nine square slots, each holding either a large
Silent Paws
Black outlined geometric cat artwork		 This image features a stylized, geometric cat made from a series of interconnected black lines that form a striking pattern of triangles and polygons. The cat is in a walking pose, with its tail raised and slightly curved. The design is minimalistic, yet visually engaging, creating a modern, abstract representation of a cat.
Geometric Whirl - the hypnotic spiral
Dynamic geometric art of squares using multiple layers		 Download this intricate geometric design to create a stunning piece of art involving multiple layers of squares. Perfect for your home or as a unique gift. The step-by-step tips ensures an enjoyable crafting experience, resulting in a piece that's both personal and striking.
Spider clock
Acrylic or MDF spider wall clock, vibrant, fun, and easy to make
Birds on branches
Wall art with intricately carved birds on branches
Basketball Dunking Time
Basketball wall art with dunking player, perfect for sports fans
Time in a Galaxy Far, Far Away
Star Wars clock featuring characters and scenes, made from acrylic		 This clock features a blue acrylic design showcasing iconic Star Wars characters and elements. The top right depicts Darth Vader with his lightsaber raised, while R2-D2 and Yoda appear on the left side. The lower half includes the Death Star and the Star Wars logo, all surrounding the functional clock face with black hands in the center
Timeless Fab Four
Beatles-themed acrylic clock with bold silhouettes and vibrant hands		 A round black acrylic clock featuring The Beatles' silhouettes at the top and
Love in Geometrics
A geometric "LOVE" sign with a heart, laser-cut in red or any colour you love		 A laser-cut
KISS Your Boring Clock Goodbye
Laser-cut KISS clock combines art, music, and bold rock style.		 This image shows a circular wall clock inspired by the rock band KISS. The clock face features the black-and-white, laser-cut faces of the band members in their iconic makeup. The KISS logo is prominently displayed at the bottom, and the center holds a real vinyl record with visible text and a small photo of the band. Bright red clock hands contrast the monochromatic design, making this a striking homage to the legendary rock group.
Thunderstruck Timepiece
AC/DC clock combines vinyl records, laser-cut designs, and rock energy.		 The image shows a magenta and white circular clock inspired by the rock band AC/DC. The clock features the band’s logo at the bottom, along with laser-cut silhouettes of band members playing guitars in dynamic poses. The centerpiece of the clock is an actual vinyl record with the track “Back in Black” visible. The clock hands are black, adding contrast against the vibrant background. This design merges music, art, and functionality into a bold statement piece.
Rocket Clock Man
Vivid Elton John clock combines vinyl records and laser design.		 The image shows a bright green, circular clock featuring a laser-cut silhouette of Elton John wearing sunglasses, smiling, and striking a pose. His name, “Elton John,” is cut out in bold letters to the right of the design. The center of the clock is a real vinyl record, with black clock hands pointing out the time. The overall piece combines music and art, creating a visually striking tribute to the legendary musician.
Sunset Ride: Laser-Cut Mountain Biking Adventure
Laser-cut art showing a cyclist riding through mountains with sunset		 The artwork depicts a cyclist riding a mountain bike against a scenic background. The design is multi-layered, featuring earthy-colored mountains, with a bright yellow sun setting behind them and a turquoise sky above. The cyclist silhouette is prominently placed, giving a sense of motion and adventure. The vibrant colors and detailed layers create a striking, dynamic image that beautifully captures the essence of outdoor biking at sunset.
Purr-fect Love: Cat Silhouette Wall Art
Cat-shaped "LOVE" sign brings feline charm to your decor		 This image shows wall art spelling out the word
Frame the Fur-tastic Cats
Laser-cut colorful framed cat silhouettes for stylish, easy décor pieces
Silent Night Meets Laser Light
A laser-cut Nativity Cross featuring intricate, meaningful Christmas silhouettes		 A cross-shaped laser-cut artwork featuring detailed silhouettes depicting the Nativity scene. The top section displays the Star of Bethlehem shining over Mary, Joseph, and Baby Jesus in the manger, surrounded by the Magi and shepherds. The bottom section includes a donkey, branches, and architectural elements resembling a stable. The design is delicate, intricate, and symbolic, blending the spirit of Christmas with artistic craftsmanship, ideal for wall décor or festive displays.

Gifts for adults
Minimalist Woman Silhouette
Minimalist acrylic art of a woman in a striped skirt		 A laser-cut artwork featuring the silhouette of a woman seemingly walking through a series of horizontal stripes. The design plays with negative space and perspective, creating an optical illusion where the figure appears partially obscured by the stripes. The artwork is crafted from a glossy black material, giving it a modern and sleek appearance, perfect for adding a touch of contemporary art to any space.
Abstract Femme Fatale
Silhouette of a standing woman, elegant and abstract.
Abstract Feminine Flow
Artwork showcasing a layered silhouette of reclining elegance.
Head in Harmony
Layered silhouette of a woman’s head, elegant and mesmerizing design.
Curves and Stripes: An Abstract Play
Modern abstract design of a flowing figure in green acrylic
Snowflake Charm: The Wine Case
Wooden wine case with snowflake cutouts, twine handle, festive design

Intermediate laser cutting projects

Gifts for children
Vintage Bi-plane Soars
Assemble and customize a vintage biplane model with laser-cut precision
Shape Shifter's Playground
Wooden shape sorter with laser-cut pieces for educational playtime fun		 A wooden shape-sorting box with various laser-cut shapes such as stars, circles, hearts, and more. The box has slots for each shape to fit into its corresponding opening. The toy comes with 14 wooden pieces that toddlers can match and insert into the appropriate cutouts, helping develop motor skills and shape recognition. The wood's natural finish adds a rustic charm, making it visually appealing and durable.
Wizard Time Magical Clock
Magical clock with iconic characters from Harry Potter
Purrfectly Playful Cat Faces
Whimsical laser-cut cat faces, perfect for cat lovers' decor		 Brighten your space with this whimsical laser-cut artwork featuring a delightful array of cat faces. This design is perfect for cat lovers and those looking to add a fun touch to their decor. Easy to make, this project promises both charm and satisfaction in your laser cutting journey.
Holy Night, Handmade Delight
Handmade nativity scene with charming details adds warmth to Christmas decor
Batman Desk Organiser
Batman themed stationary holder
Feline Fortune keeper money box
Charming cat-shaped money box, easy to assemble and practical
Easter Wonderland Egg
Multi-layered Easter egg with fairies, bunnies, and vibrant colors		 A decorative, multi-layered wooden Easter egg featuring a vibrant, whimsical scene. Inside the egg’s shape are bunnies, a basket, and a fairy under tree branches, each layer colored in soft tones. The intricate design provides a three-dimensional look, ideal for holiday décor or gifting.

Gifts for all ages
Giraffe Gentle Giants
Mother and baby giraffe in 4 layers		 A detailed laser-cut artwork depicting a mother giraffe and her calf, intricately layered to show their gentle, loving bond. The design features various shades of brown and beige, mimicking the natural patterns of giraffe fur, with the calf snuggling close to its mother. The piece is elegantly crafted to showcase the giraffes’ distinctive long necks and soft expressions, making it a touching and artistic representation of maternal love.
A Timeless Nativity: Laser-Cut Elegance
Create three stunning laser-cut Nativity scenes, perfect for gifting
Catscade
Colorful mandala cat art, intricate, vibrant, and whimsical design		 An intricately layered wall art piece featuring a stylized cat silhouette filled with vibrant mandala patterns in bold colors like yellow, blue, pink, and black. The design is visually striking, with detailed geometric shapes forming a beautifully artistic representation of a cat, perfect for brightening up any room.
Colorful Cats Purrfect Pop Art
A colorful cat-themed pop art of eight layers		 A vibrant artwork featuring a family of four stylized cats in bold colors. The mother cat is purple, with three smaller cats in orange, blue, and red nestled within her shape. Their bright yellow eyes stand out against a lime green background, creating a playful and modern piece that is both simple and striking. The design is enclosed in a white frame, emphasizing the colorful and geometric nature of the artwork.
Graceful Crosses - Faithful Creations
Inspirational engraved wooden crosses		 A collection of small wooden crosses, each intricately laser-cut with inspiring words like
Psychedelic mandala guitar
Psychedelic guitar art, laser-cut layers, colorful and intricate.
Rock On Musical Guitar
Guitar-shaped five layer artwork with musical notes and dancers		 Create this stunning guitar-shaped artwork with intricate musical notes, dancing figures, and guitar shape from layered wood or acrylic sheets. Assemble the layers to form a dynamic 3D effect. This project is perfect for music lovers and laser cutting enthusiasts seeking a unique decor piece.
Chaotic Time: An Avant-Garde Clock
Avant-garde clock with scattered numbers, stylish and functional item design		 Create this stunning avant-garde clock using a laser cutter by designing the dynamic arrangement of scattered numbers. Cut the pieces from acrylic or wood, assemble them around the central clock mechanism, and mount it on your wall. This project is perfect for adding a modern touch to any space.
Vinyl Beats: Time to Rock Around the Clock
A vinyl record clock with musician silhouettes—a perfect musical keepsake		 A wall clock made from a vinyl record. The outer edge of the record is adorned with black silhouettes of musicians playing instruments, striking poses that embody the energy of live performances. The clock hands are bright red, standing out against the dark background of the record, with the record's label at the center.
Slice of Paris: Eiffel Tower in Four Frames
Create a stunning Eiffel Tower display with this laser-cut project.		 Capture the essence of Paris with this stunning laser-cut Eiffel Tower, presented in a unique four-part frame design. Each segment showcases a section of the iconic tower, surrounded by intricately cut foliage. This project combines simplicity with elegance, perfect for decorating your home or gifting to someone special. Download the design files, follow the instructions, and create your Parisian masterpiece today. Whether for yourself or a loved one, this project will impress!
Feline Time: Purrfect Colour Cat Clock
Colourful cat-themed clock perfect for cat lovers
Floral Petal Power Treasure Trove
Intricate wooden box with floral designs, perfect for keepsakes or gifts
Empire Strikes the Wall!
Star Wars wall art featuring Darth Vader and stormtroopers
The Force of Creativity: Star Wars in 3D
Star Wars-inspired laser-cut wall art showcasing characters, ships, and iconic movie scenes.		 This Star Wars wall art features laser-cut designs in the iconic text logo. Each letter contains detailed depictions of characters and ships from the franchise, like Darth Vader, Yoda, and the Millennium Falcon, giving the piece depth and texture.
The Galactic Ruins: Death Star Wall Art
Detailed laser-cut Death Star art showcasing iconic structure with layered, intricate design		 The image shows a laser-cut artwork of the Death Star from Star Wars. The circular structure is intricately cut, highlighting its iconic mechanical details, with one side appearing battle-damaged. The layered design adds depth, using grey and black elements to accentuate the details of the station’s grid-like structure. The artwork captures the distinct shape of the Death Star, making it an eye-catching piece for any Star Wars fan.
Trunk Tales - A family portrait
A stunning layered wood elephant design perfect for wildlife lovers
Majestic Elephant: Mandala Elegance
Intricate laser-cut elephant with mandala patterns and golden accents		 This artwork features an intricately detailed elephant with mandala-style patterns on its ears and body. The elephant’s face and trunk are decorated with fine geometric and ornamental designs, while its large ears showcase beautifully layered, lace-like patterns. The wood art uses shades of brown, yellow, and gold, giving it a natural yet ornate appearance. The elephant’s regal stance and the rich textures evoke a sense of elegance and craftsmanship.
Laser-Cut Catitude
A stunning, layered cat design perfect for laser cutting enthusiasts
Love in Layers: Heart Box Edition
Heart-shaped box with floral cutouts and a raised centerpiece
Heartfelt Layers of Love
Heart-shaped box with delicate layered heart cutouts, perfect gift

Gifts for adults
The Last Supper
Intricate Last Supper replica, perfect for laser cutting enthusiasts		 Using a laser cutter, create a detailed replica of the Last Supper. Design the intricate scene, cut the layers from wood, and assemble them to achieve a 3D effect. This project merges art and craftsmanship, allowing you to produce a stunning piece that honours this iconic moment in history.
Circles of Function key holder
Stylish wall hook with laser-cut concentric circle design		 Place this eye-catching key holder on your wall. It features a series of laser-cut concentric circles. Perfect for adding both style and functional itemity, this project is ideal for those looking for a functional item laser cut. The intricate yet accessible design ensures a rewarding laser cutting experience, resulting in a practical and artistic piece for your home.
Sip in Style: Personalized Wedding Wine Box
Elegant wooden box with engraved wedding design holding wine bottle.		 The image shows a wooden wine box featuring a romantic engraving of a couple dancing. The box has a smooth, natural wood finish, with intricate cutouts and designs adding a personalized touch. Inside, a wine bottle is securely placed, making this box a stylish and sophisticated gift for special occasions, such as weddings or anniversaries.
Elegance in Wood with Grapevine Flair
Wooden wine case with decorative grapevine cutouts, handle, reusable
Grape Escape: Sleek Wine Holder
Elegant wooden wine case, snug fit, flexible slats, festive design		 A wooden wine case with a sleek, flexible design holds a bottle of wine snugly. It features slatted wooden sides, adding a modern touch, and is adorned with colorful paper confetti, giving it a celebratory feel. The case has a handle at the top, making it easy to carry.

Challenging laser cutting projects

Gifts for children
Speedway in Miniature: The Ultimate Car Ramp Challenge
Exciting car ramp design for kids with endless fun		 This image shows a three-tiered wooden car ramp designed for small toy cars. The ramp features four curved tracks that allow cars to race downward from the top. The structure includes side supports and an open storage area underneath, all crafted from laser-cut wood, offering a smooth, polished finish. The design is both functional and visually appealing, making it a perfect toy for young car enthusiasts.
Haulin' Hot Wheels
Laser-cut truck display holds Hot Wheels, perfect for organizing collections		 A laser-cut wooden display shaped like a semi-truck with multiple compartments for holding and displaying miniature cars, such as Hot Wheels. The truck's cab and trailer are intricately designed, with wheels and other details etched into the wood. Three miniature cars are placed within the compartments, showing how the display can be used.

Gifts for all ages
Modern Van Gogh Starry Night
Contemporary multi-layered rendition of Vincent van Gogh's "Starry Night"		 A vibrant and modern reimagining of Van Gogh's
Van Gogh Sunflowers
Contemporary layered design inspired by Van Gogh’s "Sunflowers" painting.		 This image depicts a modern interpretation of Van Gogh's famous
Layered Leafscape
Five-layered plant artwork with intricate, textured design in wooden frame
Sunset Serenades - Nature's Silhouette
Multiple layers of nature-themed silhouettes of animals and landscapes		 Create these stunning nature-themed artworks using a laser cutter. Design each scene with intricate silhouettes and vibrant backgrounds, then cut from plywood sheets. Assemble the layers to achieve a 3D effect. Perfect for adding a serene touch to any room.
Steampunk Marvel Clock
Intricate steampunk clock with gears, Roman numerals, and vintage charm		 This intricate steampunk-inspired laser-cut clock, featuring detailed gears and Roman numerals, will be a talking point. Perfect for both decor and functional item use, this design offers a rewarding challenge for laser cutting enthusiasts. Its vintage aesthetic and mechanical charm make it a standout piece that adds sophistication to any room.
Musical Mosaic Symphony
Colorful laser-cut guitar and microphones with vibrant soundwaves background		 This laser-cut artwork features a colorful guitar in the foreground with microphones and soundwaves in the background. The design is layered with vibrant, swirling lines in orange, yellow, red, and green, creating a sense of rhythm and motion. The guitar, centered in the composition, adds a focal point of musical energy, while the surrounding elements suggest a dynamic audio landscape.

Gifts for adults
Picasso Cubist Dreamscape
Cubist-inspired artwork with bold colors, perfect for modern art lovers		 This is a layered wood art piece inspired by Picasso’s Cubist style, featuring an abstract portrait of a woman with geometric shapes and bold, vibrant colors, capturing the essence of the Cubist movement.

Laser Cutting Tips & Tricks

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