Engraving mirrors with color on the WeCreat Vision

Engraving some 12 x12 mirrors with the WeCreat Vision 20 watt laser. I have built a file to use for the frame that allows the use of LED strip lights to be installed in the frame. The file will is located in my Etsy shop for download and all product links are below.
For templates that I have made, check out my Etsy shop. I build files for projects and tools for laser engravers.
theclackshack.etsy.com
For Clack Shack shirts, check out my store:
the-clack-shack.creator-sprin...
The links below are affiliate links that will direct you to the product in this video. If you use this link for a purchase, I will receive a commission from the purchase. I remain unbiased and honest in my assessment as always.
WeCreat Vision 20 watt- (limited time $250 coupon)- bit.ly/3QdJJXx
Lowe's 12 inch mirror tile-
www.lowes.com/pd/Style-Select...
Walmart strip lights- (shortened URL)- tinyurl.com/ynbnv69j
Titebond wood glue- amzn.to/3st79Ac
Gorilla glue, hot glue gun- amzn.to/3srpcqq
The Clack Shack on Amazon= www.amazon.com/shop/theclacks...
File on my Etsy Shop-
theclackshack.etsy.com/listin...
‪@WeCreatOfficial‬

[@matchstickdesignco]

Raise your hand if you're old enough to remember getting mirrors like these with album covers and beer logos as carnival prizes! 🙋‍♂ My bedroom walls were covered with 'em.

[@TheClackShack]

Yea, a lot of band logos too from back in the 80s... Not that I remember..

[@mervfer1162]

And they were always 12"x12" in little thin wooden frames.

[@jeffreybundy4095]

Facts!!!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@NerdyForge]

For best LED diffusion, either, make the LED's reside 1.5 to 2.0 inches deep from the surface you want to glow. Spacing the LED's 0.75 inches apart or, have the LED's form a ring on the outer edge, facing inwards towards the center, and paint the back inside white. Years ago I made light boxes from a video game and it took me weeks of trial and error to find the correct spacing so the LED bulbs were not visible. Love the painted mirror engravings. Excellent work. There are also pre-diffused LED strips that have a milky white rubbery cover that makes them look almost like neon light tubes. While your mirror frame would be a little bit thicker, I really think it would be a worthwhile trade off to have better diffused lighting. You've got a solid idea there.

[@TheClackShack]

Yea, I have made diffused ones before. I just went with this one and it looks good to me

[@jasn98]

Love that! Your logo on that mirror is beautiful. I never knew how to do that. Thank you for sharing how you made your project!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, glad you like it

[@edlacombe9773]

Now these are the kind of projects I've been looking to do. This is an example of what is a truly collectable, personalized product that is worthy of my precious time and undertaking. To be perfectly honest, I've seen all too many sub-standard lasered crafts for sale at flea markets and crafts shows, many so poorly done that it's embarrassing to have them associated with others who own lasers. I have just one word for you . . . . "MORE!" Oh, and I might add, "GREAT JOB!"

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, I do a variety of methods on them. The color is the coolest, I think

[@cook6052]

You might think of using an airbrush. These are a super tool. Makes painting very quick and easy. Use acrylics for quick easy cleanup. It will take your endeavors to a whole new level! You are All-Pro!

[@TheClackShack]

Typically, I just use rattle cans but that is an idea.

[@alwatts9713]

Great idea and yes, it does remind me of the good old days when you'd see these in a booth at the fair/carnival.

[@TheClackShack]

Exactly!

[@bonitamichy]

I love it. I'm so happy to see you again. Please keep sharing. You're Awesome!!

[@TheClackShack]

Thank you! Will do!

[@charleslamont2963]

Awesome. Thank you for your time, your teaching and showing the results.

[@TheClackShack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@SteveTrueloveInspiredtechlife]

Great job! It has given me a lot of ideals to try. As always, thank you!

[@TheClackShack]

Have fun…. Thanks for watching

[@francisaquitania6892]

Awesome! Thank you for taking the time to teach the steps on how to build one of these. Will certainly try this out with my new WeCreat Vision.

[@TheClackShack]

Have fun

[@lorifisher245]

This is amazing! Can’t wait to try this! Clear explanation and instructions ❤

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it

[@michaelselix6244]

You do amazing work. Thank you for showing us how to do this.

[@TheClackShack]

You are very welcome.

[@ericeinsmann5559]

Very impressive! Good job!

[@TheClackShack]

Thank you!

[@ruhanpieter]

Very COOL, love it.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks…

[@franktaylor38]

I've done mirrors, but haven't tried it with the lights, definitely going to try it. Thanks for the video!!

[@TheClackShack]

You’re welcome 😊

[@catfisherboy]

Best video you have done !! Great explanation, thank you.

[@TheClackShack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@naterife8871]

Great video, I will build some in the future. Have a Great day.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, have fun

[@markgrassman6238]

Awesome. I love it. I have been thinking about doing a mirror thing for years. You made it look easy (ish).

[@TheClackShack]

Glad it helped

[@angrygaragemechanic]

Awesome! I remember some other KZbinr was having calibration issues and they contacted the manufacturer and they helped with the camera calibration.

[@TheClackShack]

Mine is very close so it hasn't been an issue so far.

[@Gadget_Evaluator]

Really cool. Thanks for sharing.

[@TheClackShack]

You bet

[@B.A.Bassangler]

Pretty slick! And, a lot cleaner than CNC projects. I'm starting with my old contractor tools and a laser; had planned on a future CNC, but can see where I may end up with a laser arsenal instead.

[@TheClackShack]

A CNC has its place but I try to be creative with the lasers..

[@karenladwig]

Beautiful!

[@TheClackShack]

Thank you!

[@terryclair2914]

Excellent video, thanks!!!

[@TheClackShack]

Glad you liked it!

[@Grandpa_LBM]

very intresting and informative, thanks for sharing.

[@TheClackShack]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@Sir_Llama_Jim]

Great Job!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks!

[@pamnicholson8420]

I have waited for this video!! TY so much. I can't wait to make one ( or 20) LOL

[@TheClackShack]

Have fun!

[@JaniLewisPaperCompulsions]

Such cool projects. Thanks for sharing all your hard work with us. I love these ideas.

[@JaniLewisPaperCompulsions]

Oh, and I am sure Vinny will love his mirror. 😁

[@TheClackShack]

Glad you like it

[@jankesalez]

Great video! Thank you.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks

[@recinsane]

Great job! I just bought a wecreat

[@TheClackShack]

Have fun….

[@nickschuster7618]

tip for setting your layers. add salt to the glue after applying it. it provides additional traction for the pieces so they don't slide when your clamping them!

[@TheClackShack]

Titebond 3 has grit in it, it just settles to the bottom.. Gotta shack it up

[@crazytrain03]

I found a happy medium to my mirror cuts, that allow a clear mirror until it is backlit. Diffusion panels behind your mirror is key. Blocks your led dot and gives a good light dispersion at such a close range

[@TheClackShack]

Yes, I have some material that I sometimes use. Depends on the look I want.

[@daynamacel4080]

Just want you to know I bought your mirror project, and it worked wonderful. My laser had to be slowed down, but it looks great! Thanks

[@TheClackShack]

Great to hear!

[@geraldlamothe6091]

Good job!I did make one about a year ago for my 12 inch mirrors the same as yours.For the arcylic paint try using quality paint,the same stuff that paint artist use,most of the times only one good coat is all you need...It costs a little more but, it will save you some time.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, I prefer spray paint but was trying to show that any paint will work. Good idea though

[@terryspillers6752]

This is cool!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks..

[@ColinWatters]

Cool video. I guess Im going to the store tomorrow to buy some mirror tiles

[@TheClackShack]

Have fun!

[@ashracampbell-clarke1887]

Great video.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks…

[@jaymeswilke9448]

Just noticed that you did some stuff for Cog Hill Farms. I follow them also. Cool stuff.

[@TheClackShack]

Yea, thanks.. they are good folks

[@Qwiv]

Love it. I would just want perfect diffusion.

[@TheClackShack]

I didn’t want to make it any thicker. It works

[@kenttomlinson1499]

Thanks!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks to you also..... glad you liked it.

[@jeffbarnes2014]

Very Nice

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks

[@vikingwind25]

This is a project I will be doing. Just a thought. Painting the back plate white before putting down the LEDs might help reduce the lighting contrast. Then add the diffuser sheet. I'm off to Lowes.... Thanks.

[@TheClackShack]

Yea, I like the results though. Way better than any I have done before.

[@melissamcdaniel3542]

Awesome

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks

[@dondattler7085]

I use the blue disposable shop towel for the glass in my Picture framing business. No/Minimal Lint. No streaking or residue. Better than cloth or paper towels for me.

[@TheClackShack]

I was out.. lol

[@firerox4474]

Pretty neat idea. I wonder if you could put the lights on the mirror, outside of the opaque area surrounding it, that way it not only diffuses, but doesn't show individual LED's through the opaque portions of the glass.

[@TheClackShack]

You can put them in the outlying area and paint the inside white but I decided not to do it on this one.

[@DavesCave]

@@TheClackShack this is the idea I had in mind. More work but if you use 3mm (1/8”) pre coated MDF that could save on painting

[@zhyle02]

You can also put LED in the frame spacers going around, and put aluminum foil at the back frame to illuminate the light too.

[@bertalafacousl4384]

Appreciate you

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks..

[@TheFalconJetDriver]

I appreciate the details, I use lightburn and thought the same as you suggested size the two logo’s in LB invert stack the layers and turn one off. That really turned out nice.😁🛫

[@TheClackShack]

Yea, until this machine supports lightburn, I am stuck using their software.

[@terieger6541]

Terrific video! Definitely a project I will be doing. Do you have the flag/eagle graphic available? If you were at LBX, I'm sorry I missed meeting you! Please keep up the Great videos and thanks for sharing your knowledge!

[@TheClackShack]

That is a graphic that I purchased, sorry I can't share. I believe it was on Etsy.

[@StubbornBullCustoms]

love it

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks.. it was fun.

[@StubbornBullCustoms]

@@TheClackShack definitely adding to things to do list

[@TheClackShack]

added bonus, the lights react to music.@@StubbornBullCustoms

[@StubbornBullCustoms]

@@TheClackShack niceeee, if you have a five below they sell similar lights as well. Not sure on exact length, also comes with remote

[@StubbornBullCustoms]

grabbed the template but will have to slightly adjust and find 10" mirrors so i can cut in my S1 @@TheClackShack

[@chrisgallaher3899]

Just a tip/suggestion, when taking a photo or video of a mirror I have a large piece of cardstock white one side and navy blue on the other then angle the mirror to get the blue or white depending on best contrast to the get the cardstock as the background, In the shack you could probably get away with hanging an old bedsheet.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, that’s a lot of trouble….lol.

[@MsMymiracle]

LOVE! Just got the file!

[@TheClackShack]

Enjoy..

[@DavesCave]

Interesting to see someone else has done it. I was keen to see if you did anything different but pretty much the same. I tried using poster paints. On small detail it does not show well at all. I will be trying something different for backlighting. So far I have not loaded any laser work to my channel and have not put any content on for about a year. I need to get back to making content. If I remember I’ll tag you when I make a video with backlighting. Don’t know if it will work as I intend. Time will tell

[@TheClackShack]

Fun stuff

[@mutley192]

nice project, im new to this laser lark, love the channel. did you spray the back of the mirror first , thanks

[@TheClackShack]

No, all the steps are discussed in the video.

[@geauxracerx]

2:59 ok that’s what I was thinking how you’d do that. Etching the back and then painting it. Good deal

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks..

[@ColinWatters]

Some LED controllers use radio rather the IR. The one I have works even through a solid mirror which surprised me.

[@TheClackShack]

That would be better, the cheaper ones I have use IR.

[@westifer566]

Very good instructional video! My concern is to move from lightburn to the wecreate software. Are there any expectations to be able to do everything in lightburn?? Thanks!

[@TheClackShack]

Yes, I could have done it in lighburn (probably faster) that is where I am most comfortable.

[@designedwithlove617]

@the clark shack... I loved this but did you have to do anything special to the mirror to before engraving?

[@TheClackShack]

No, just what is in the video

[@youcancreateit]

This is so awesome!! I wonder if this would work with mirror acrylic? What is your opinion? Thanks!!!

[@TheClackShack]

It should have similar results.

[@bernadettemontague5153]

I “LOVE” this mirror idea of yours! It gives me a lot of ideas to do as well. Question: did you say you can only do the mirror engraving in the WeCreat. Or can you also do the cut outs of the wood in the WeCreat too??? If not, then I’m out of luck with this project, as I don’t have a shop with other machines/tools in it. Thanks

[@TheClackShack]

The frame I made is slightly larger than the work area of the wecreat. If it were smaller, you could.

[@bernadettemontague5153]

Thanks for the reply. Perhaps I can find another option for the frame. Thanks again! 😊👍

[@joycep5237]

Very informative! You are a wonderful teacher! I would love to make these, but dont like that the bulbs show. Would a strip of light, top or bottom show good enough? We creat is a nice machine - how do I make the frame? I believe it doesnt have a large enough cutting area?

[@TheClackShack]

You can offset the lights. I have another one that is offset. It just depends on what you want. I also have a file for an 8 inch mirror in my etsy shop. Just need the Amazon mirrors.

[@evilutionltd]

If you note down your position and scale numbers, you can just put those in to layer 2 and it'll match layer 1.

[@TheClackShack]

That’s one way to

[@OurShowOurStory]

You did a great job, might I suggest using printer paper as a diffuser. It would mask the leds a bit better than mylar

[@TheClackShack]

I didn’t use anything, kinda liked the look. I could have also sprayed another coat of white

[@RichardHigginbothamWA]

Quick question. Have you made your jig system for the WeCreat? I have them for the XTool.

[@TheClackShack]

No, the software isn't great for making jigs. You can use a square piece of material and just cut out the shapes. Use the machine frame as a reference.

[@jrm637]

FANTASTIC idea! Question: You have another video of painting color into mirrors and I think you engraved, then spray painted, then engraved another pass over the paint. But you didn't do that in this video. Does engraving over the paint give a darker color effect?

[@TheClackShack]

That is the process I used in this video. The effect is dependent on power and speed settings.

[@markitos09]

Great video ,,Made a mirror of my own . Made it a little different but mostly inspired by your video. You have great content. What would you charge for a mirror like these?

[@TheClackShack]

Generally they can bring $50 or more depending

[@ginamariegarcia9461]

I came across your channel. I am getting a xtool S1. Do you do videos with this laser?

[@TheClackShack]

I have, I also have other XTool machines.

[@user-rc7sw7wt9p]

To calibrate the camera cover the entirety of the bed with a material( I used paper) and then press ctrl+shift+p. You will see a calibrate button. Press it the machine will burn 6 crosses, wait and it will update the calibration on its own.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks

[@jeffreybundy4095]

Hiya there and this was incredibly informative!! Can this mirror project be done with a 10 watt laser etcher?🤔

[@TheClackShack]

Yes, mirrors do not require a lot of power.

[@TheNapsbrian]

I wonder if gold leaf could be used, similar to a plate glass window. Definitely more labor intensive, but could have dramatic results.

[@TheClackShack]

Not sure, interesting idea though

[@chrisoliver3851]

Great job newbie here with a Xtool S1 40 watt . Can i engrave the glass with the 40 watt and back off the power? Really enjoy you sharing ....Chris

[@TheClackShack]

The process is the same just adjust the power. Probly about 250mm/s

[@eventsbethlehemrg1969]

I bought your templates; with what did you cut the templates and the size of lauan board?

[@TheClackShack]

I use 1/4 inch luan that I cut into pieces the size of my work area

[@kenttomlinson1499]

As per wecreat, control_ shift_ p goes to the camera calibration option

[@TheClackShack]

Yea, never worked in the old version

[@KRich408]

Have you had any issues with the glass cracking? I've been testing on different types of glass with a black coating I put on I find I'm getting about a 25% failure when the glass gets heat cracks? I've tried different LPI different power settings. Sometimes the cracks form hours or days later?

[@TheClackShack]

With the thinner glass, I avoid etching it and aim to just clean the glass. If you etch it, those tiny chips can become cracks. That is why I recommend a power test and run just enough power to remove the coating.

[@chuckmcbrayer]

Hey Clack I just purchased your Atezr jig. Can you brainstorm on something to connect the small metal part to the X tool screen printer to light it to the Atezr. I don't like using my d1 with the screens. Thanks, Chuck

[@TheClackShack]

You can use the squaring jig for alignment. Add a couple of magnets to keep it pressed into the jig.

[@mikerickard5046]

Did you have to change any of the power/speed settings to burn through the black paint

[@TheClackShack]

I don't

[@EtchinAaronslaserworkshop]

Really wanna test a wecreat man the stuff I could do too many ideas in this ol head to put on

[@TheClackShack]

It is a good machine for the bed size.

[@merrillalbury8214]

Could try frosted plexiglass as a defuser.

[@TheClackShack]

I have some stencil material and also could crank up the heat to cause the glass to frost. The last one I made was just frosted, I could move the lights around the edge but I kinda like the look.

[@rontaylor6673]

Just picked up the file, like everyone else on here I love the idea but I do have one question which for some reason is not clear to me. I thought the file might have thicknesses in it but it did not and you mention 3 and 4 mil .... With those same mirrors is 3 mil wood or 4 mil the right wood to use? Or will both work?

[@TheClackShack]

Either will work. Only difference is spacing in the mirror slot.

[@bobrose6429]

Do you paint the back before han. As some mirrors have different backings?

[@TheClackShack]

No, just as is based on power test.

[@jppalm3944]

Just a note. Russia stopping shipping birch. Big source for this. Distributors looking for alternatives.

[@TheClackShack]

I don't use a lot of birch, mostly poplar luan.

[@jimlindsay8638]

thanks. The strip light from Walmart is out of stock. Any suggestion for a substituye to be used like you did.

[@TheClackShack]

Amazon sales some that are similar. 6.5 feet or so.

[@judyromano2229]

I'm really looking at getting one of these. I'm torn between the 20W and 40. Someone said only get the 40 if you are doing a lot of heavy stuff. I don't know what I'll be doing. They said the 20 is better for engraving. And I've heard you can't do any clear or white acrylic, and maybe some other colors. Is this true. One more question, can you tell me if I need or what this part really does; 2W Infrared Laser Module. I really like your video and it has helped me so much. Thank you. I'm subscribing.

[@TheClackShack]

The clear or light colored acrylic is a no go. Black is all you can count on. Personally, I don't like the way the IR module has to be installed.

[@judyromano2229]

@@TheClackShack thanks, I'm not sure if I totally know the purpose of IR. Do you find the 20W does everything you need. Do they cut the same thickness. I've noticed most on you tube buy the 20,

[@TheClackShack]

@@judyromano2229 thickness isn’t the issue as much as speed. More power is typically just faster

[@MickeyWalker-nv1ik]

Can I ask what lights you used and where I can get them Great job

[@TheClackShack]

Link was in the description. Walmart strip lights- (shortened URL)- tinyurl.com/ynbnv69j

[@jamufajen751]

The wolf is my best.

[@TheClackShack]

Cool..

[@MickeyWalker-nv1ik]

Is there a file I can buy for the wood cutout frame somewhere

[@TheClackShack]

Yes, I sell the files on my Etsy shop. www.etsy.com/shop/TheClackShack?ref=seller-platform-mcnav

[@ilovediys5725]

Can I use photo frames template with sculpfun S9 laser engraver?

[@TheClackShack]

The work area would limit the size. I have them in several sizes on etsy

[@sasha6261]

I love this! How much do you charge

[@TheClackShack]

Depends but $50 is the average.

[@marksmith2761]

What would a good retail price for these mirrors be? Seems to be fairly labor and time intensive to be cheap.

[@TheClackShack]

Depends on your market, the type of design and amount of layers. My base is $50

[@naturelover72]

How do you get the led tape into the 90 degree bends without bulk or breaking?

[@TheClackShack]

Folding

[@Humble-Engine]

Random question do you know how to create accent a or n in lightburn. Been looking around on the web and can’t find this answer. As always I appreciate your help.

[@TheClackShack]

To create Á, hold ALT then type 0193. For É, hold ALT and type 0201. Alt+0193 = Á Alt+0201 = É Alt+0205 = Í Alt+0211 = Ó Alt+0218 = Ú Alt+0221 = Ý

[@Humble-Engine]

@@TheClackShack I tried that and it came up with a printer command lol

[@Humble-Engine]

Ok I used an older model keyboard this time with a number pad on it and it worked! Thanks

[@klausjonietz5841]

what did you use to hang frame?

[@TheClackShack]

I have hanging hardware kits for most. This one, I just drilled and mounted in my shop

[@randybranson1009]

Ouch...made a big booboo. I had laser set at mm/min instead of mm/sec. BIG difference in time and look. DUH!!! Thanks for your great video and glad I could go back into in and freeze your material test. DAVE...YA DA MAN!

[@TheClackShack]

Good deal. Have fun

[@randybranson1009]

I’m really enjoying engraving/etching mirrors. Thanks for the video!

[@myronbenware4452]

I use Marsh Spray Ink. Dries Fast.

[@TheClackShack]

Nice

[@MickeyWalker-nv1ik]

What is the name of the sheet of film you use to defuse the lights

[@TheClackShack]

It is mylar sheets for making stencils.

[@kevinwalter5373]

so if i understand this process did you run the laser on the back of the mirror and then painted it

[@TheClackShack]

Yes, but in multiple layers after painting.

[@Mountainman1981]

What type of plywood did you use?

[@TheClackShack]

1/4 plywood

[@ashracampbell-clarke1887]

Have you tried engraving photos on the mirrors? I and wondering how and photo will look with thr blavk paint like you did thr wolf.

[@TheClackShack]

Shading isn’t an option, you have to use a “dot matrix” type setup to get shading.

[@clayjr67]

Where do u get your laser glass I am making a better one but the glass is crazy expensive I am looking for a more affordable option can u help lol love your stuff as well

[@DavZell]

Do you mean the glass that goes in an enclosure to contain the reflected laser light?

[@clayjr67]

@@DavZell yes

[@TheClackShack]

JTech is the only place I have used for building enclosures if that is what you are asking. It isn't cheap.

[@CockRoachZCnc]

Where did you get that 12 by 12 sheet of that translucent material at? Not even sure what that’s called! Lol

[@TheClackShack]

amzn.to/3RhWdO7

[@mikefitzpatrick5209]

Did you cut the frame plywood with the WeCreat?

[@TheClackShack]

No, the frames were cut on my bigger machine.

[@mikefitzpatrick5209]

ok thanks@@TheClackShack

[@helenedmonds8742]

How do i stop flashback , looked great from behind but front was frosty and had soot like residue

[@TheClackShack]

Raise it away from work surface with some spacers