// Make something
Projects & how-tos
Our own project ideas and how-tos — no copied designs. Each one says which machines and materials suit it.
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Photo: Jared Tarbell, CC BY 2.0Finger-jointed keepsake box in 3mm plywood
A classic first laser project — six panels with interlocking finger joints and an engraved lid. Learn about kerf, test fits and engraving in one small build.
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Photo: Autopilot, CC BY-SA 3.0Living-hinge pencil pot
Turn a flat sheet of plywood into a smooth curve. A rounded desk pot shows off what lasers do that saws can’t — and teaches you how cut patterns change stiffne…
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Photo: oomlout, CC BY-SA 2.0Clear acrylic electronics enclosure
A see-through case for a small circuit board, held together with standoffs instead of glue. A neat CO2 laser project that shows why the laser type matters.
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Engraved slate coasters
Natural slate engraves to a pale, crisp mark with both diode and CO2 lasers. A quick, giftable project that’s ideal for learning image and text engraving.
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Photo: Shixart1985, CC BY 2.0Printed cable clips and pegboard hooks
Small, useful parts are the best way to learn a 3D printer. Design simple clips and hooks, print them in PETG or PLA, and learn how orientation changes strengt…
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Photo: Matti Blume, CC BY-SA 4.0Desktop catapult kit for a STEM afternoon
A flat-pack, rubber-band-powered catapult that slots together without glue. Great for teaching levers and forces — and for practising tab-and-slot design.
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Photo: Jared Tarbell from Awesometown, United States of America, CC BY 2.0Run a material test grid before every new material
The single most useful habit for laser users. Burn a small grid of power and speed combinations on an offcut, then pick the square that looks right — instead o…
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Photo: penyuan, CC BY-SA 2.0A reliable first layer: build plate care and calibration
Most failed prints fail in the first few minutes. A clean plate, the right surface and a printer that knows where the bed is will fix the majority of problems.