Glowforge Aura Craft Laser: Your Guide to Laser Crafting for Beginners

[@aimeekittock4691]

Showed this to my husband and he loved it. little does he know he's getting for his birthday in December. He really hasn't stopped talking about how cool it would be. I really think he will like the Aura.

[@JenniferMaker]

Awesome!

[@pegmartin200]

I love seeing Greg with you. You always talk about him. What a great team!

[@JenniferMaker]

He's the BEST! I am happy he said he'd do this video with me, and we had fun making it!

[@janieceward6300]

I first saw the Aura advertised last night. I'm so happy to find y'alls review this morning! Refreshingly unbiased and easy to understand your explanation of the features of the machine, especially for someone who is researching lasers!

[@JenniferMaker]

Hooray! So happy you enjoyed our video -- we enjoyed making it!

[@kymmer116]

I just got this today! It has been on my list for years but the cost kept me away. The aura is perfect IMO. It’s very easy to set up and easy to use!

[@streamstriss]

Gosh, I just love seeing you two together.

[@lauragribble5796]

I cannot wait for this series! I’ve been too intimidated to use my Glowforge, but I know any tutorial you do will be a perfect place to start!

[@JenniferMaker]

Yes, I think any tutorial we do for the Aura would work for the Pro or Plus as well! I cut most everything I did for this video on BOTH to compare it, and they both did great. :)

[@kellihill6635]

For a true non tech newbie....what computer/software is best. What would you recommend for all future possibilities with the aura?

[@loriallberry7415]

I can not tell you how grateful I am of your honest review! This is a big purchase and it’s great to hear a point of view that’s not been influenced!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! 😊🌻

[@DodiePajer]

First: you are both so fun to watch! Second: Greg is quite camera friendly, and I would enjoy watching more of his presentations. He seems to be very at ease in front of the camera. Third: I want an Aura! Thanks!

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! I'm so happy you enjoyed it! 😊🌻

[@amymanganaro4243]

This was a fantastic review, Jennifer and Greg! It is so appreciated that you chose to buy it for yourself in order to give an honest review.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much for watching! 😊🌻

[@juststac]

Hello Jennifer and Greg! A pleasure to see you both. This looks so exciting! I have wanted a glowforge for so long and this may someday be in my price range long before the bigger machines. Thanks for the introduction!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much for watching!! 😊🌻

[@gabrielebroom383]

I love that you buy it yourself. Others claim they receive it free but they give their honest review on it. I would love to get one. On the cons I know if we pay less we can’t expect it to preform like the 5,000 one. I’m looking forward to future videos.

[@JenniferMaker]

I feel that way too. 😊🌻 Thank you so much for watching!

[@marlenecarvajal3857]

Appreciate your honesty about the speed and ventilation.😊

[@JenniferMaker]

Any time!

[@roxannepowers7757]

I love when you have Greg in your videos. He reminds me of Al on the show tool time. flannel shirt and hand on hips. Love it!

[@JenniferMaker]

Haha! Yes! 💗

[@ginaspears9168]

Thank you for this video! It was such a treat to see Greg and you talk about this new product! I look forward to seeing all the laser cutter reviews that you bring to us. We can always count on you to give us true and accurate facts. I’m not in the market for this yet, but who knows for the future.

[@JenniferMaker]

Yay! I'm happy you liked this! He was a little nervous about doing this with me, but he's a great guy and SUPER knowledgeable about laser cutting, so I was really happy he agreed to do it. I hope to get him to do more videos with me on laser crafting. :)

[@gsmith5140]

@@JenniferMaker Yea! 😊

[@annevisser8429]

Thank you! I would love to see more tutorials on all the things you make with Aura! I love Greg’s appearance too! 😊

[@JenniferMaker]

We will definitely work on it! 😊🌻 Thanks for watching!

[@mm0901]

I love my Glowforge Plus, I’ve been using it for 2 years now… but was curious about the Aura! Love seeing Greg with you, he’s a natural!!👏🏻👏🏻

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much for watching! 😊🌻

[@WhimsyEveryday]

I've been saving for the pro and realized (literally two days ago) that there's no convenient way to fit it into my craft room/library (my house is super small). The Aura is tempting, but I'm concerned about it being a diode laser and not doing everything I want it to do (also concerned that as of right now they haven't released any tech as specs for it on their site). Thanks Jennifer and Greg for the awesome video (and for paying for your own stuff so I can always trust your reviews!).

[@JenniferMaker]

Makes sense! Keep watching for the tech specs ... I have some, and I'm sure it's just a matter of time. Launches are very detail heavy and it's easy to forget or overlook things. I know I've been struggling, and all I'm doing is talking about it, not actually manufacturing it!

[@annelawver2703]

I received the Aura for Christmas and THANK you for this tutorial. Looking forward to learning all the things.

[@craftsummore]

You two make such a cute couple and your enthusiasm is contagious 👍. Looking forward to watching more of your laser crafting journey together.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! We're so happy you're here along with us! 😊🌻

[@marianelaquintana1936]

That's so cute and perfect to have a crafty guy at home helping you ❤

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much for watching! 😊🌻

[@Kee2life]

My first time watching. Thank you both for being so pleasant and welcoming❤

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! Thanks for watching! 😊🌻

[@barbaralamont883]

Thank you for introducing this to all of us. Looking forward to seeing more from Jennifer snd Greg!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much for watching! 😊🌻

[@costasembroiderycorner6025]

You and Greg are sooooo good together

[@JenniferMaker]

Aww! Thank you so much! 😊🌻 I agree!

[@wild-radio7373]

Now THIS company really listened to us! Looks like exactly what I needed♡♡♡

[@wild-radio7373]

Also, your husband seems like a very sweet man :) you two are adorable!♡

[@JenniferMaker]

He is VERY sweet! Love him!!

[@thesouthafrican1]

I wish I didnt see this because now I want it 😂😂

[@JenniferMaker]

It's cool, isn't it?

[@BrunoGirls]

Lol me too

[@anee57]

I’ve been wanting the pro since I first saw it last year even though it’s way out of my budget , I used to watch Nick & Bailey on glowforge tv weekly KZbin videos but they just stopped so I didn’t even know this was a thing But now I do I want it NOW x

[@jamievanwagoner3754]

Same here!

[@Krafterleyjane]

Same! 😂😂 this looks amazing!

[@CraftiqueByRoLLC]

I'm so glad I saw this. Not being able to cut light color acrylic is a deal breaker for me.

[@JenniferMaker]

Yes, the diode laser does have its limitations, as Greg said. Thank you so much for watching! 😊🌻

[@staceycollins9232]

I have been wanting a Glowforge , forever!

[@JenniferMaker]

You should take the plunge! 😊🌻

[@CopperKates]

I would be very interested in more laser reviews 👍. Thanks for all the information!

[@kathypariso6102]

You guys..Thank You! I have been looking at the Glowforge PRO since it was first introduced in 2017? I just couldn't justify the price...but this...the Aura could be a perfect starting point!

[@JenniferMaker]

I agree! 😊🌻

[@GlendasCreativePlace]

LOVED Greg in this video!!! He did amazing!! Great job Greg!! And of course, Jennifer, who is always great!!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! I agree, Greg did a fantastic job! 😊🌻

[@vzburns1]

I have an aura on order. I have watched your cricut videos for years and can't wait to watch your videos on the glowforge. Please please make a video introducing us to the glowforge software, that is the main thing I am worried I may stumble over. Thanks! P.S. You two are great on camera together.

[@JaniLewisPaperCompulsions]

I'm so excited! Finally an affordable laser cutter that is more for hobbiests rather than professionals. Thank you for this video and the other laser videos you are planning.

[@JenniferMaker]

Woohoo! Happy to help!

[@hollycook1869]

Do you have to use Glowforge materials? Can you cut/engrave material you can buy from Amazon or wherever.

[@JenniferMaker]

No, you do not have to use their materials. The materials just need to be "laser-safe" or "laser-compatible" and 3mm (or less) if you want to cut them (unless it's like foam or something).

[@beverlyleibold3980]

Thank you Jennifer and Greg I am so excited about this laser cutter.❤

[@JenniferMaker]

Woohoo! Thank YOU!

[@kevinlj182]

Thank you for your non-sponsored review!

[@kasmclaughlin5831]

I always appreciate your honesty when doing reviews...TFS!

[@JenniferMaker]

Awesome!!

[@Dee_B23]

Hello Jennifer! Thank you for the info on the new Aura. It was great seeing you and Greg together and I believe he should definitely do Tutorials with you. That will be must see TV...lol Love your Cat's picture and all the Projects were fantastic. Thanks so much for everything you do Jennifer! 😺

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you for your kind words, Dee!

[@gsmith5140]

I agree. I enjoyed seeing him in the video with Jennifer. They are so cute! 🥰

[@LisaVornhagen]

That's a pretty cool machine! I absolutely love the butterfly and the luminary box!

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you!!

[@karen3490]

I am a hobbiest but could consider making this a small business venture. This video was very helpful. I would love to see your comparisons so that I can better decide if any of these laser machines are right for me. Thank you!

[@JenniferMaker]

That would be so much fun! We may do that in the future 😊🌻

[@Quilt4Joy]

That dice holder is awesome! ❤

[@JenniferMaker]

It really is! 💗

[@Louisianagirl_1126]

Thank you Jennifer and Greg for this video. I have been bitten by the GlowForge bug for a year BUT the price is kind of a bite but the Aura is definitely something to think about. The video was very informative, would LOVE to see more videos about the Aura. Will be joining y’all’s Glow Forge group. TYFS.

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad it was helpful! 😊🌻 I look forward to seeing you in the group!

[@JaimeThomas]

Please do a tutorial on the cat picture frame Jenifer😊

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you for letting me know you want one!!

[@jennifershinn3348]

We have the Xtool lasers, LOVE THEM. The M1 is a desk top size also

[@JenniferMaker]

Awesome!! So glad to hear you love them! I think we'll be getting one to compare for those who are curious. :)

[@heidiweller4032]

Great video - thank you! Have you tried marking spray or marking paper for "engraving" in stainless steel? I was wondering what the best product would be to use? ❤️

[@JenniferMaker]

No we haven't 😊🌻

[@msvsalt]

Excellent review. I am still very interested in buying this machine but, and I think this was vital info, was its inability to cut clear acrylic and that is making me rethink my priorities. I would love to see more videos on this and other machines.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much for watching! We are so excited to research and test out more machines in the near future! 😊🌻

[@craftylady3129]

I am in love with this new machine. I am going to wait to see the comparison of the other machines. The only thing I wish it had was the embossing on acrylic. I know my Maker can do this but it would be great if it did. It would be the perfect machine.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you for watching! 😊🌻

[@nancyjones6112]

I would love the free frame design! I’m repeating everyone but thank you for such a well planned presentation. I appreciate the examples and the comparisons of the Glowforge models. I’m just starting with my Aura. Loving what I’m accomplishing. Please do tutorials on all the projects you’ve displayed.

[@JenniferMaker]

You are so welcome!🥰

[@starbrown1219]

Great info. I may consider it. Great seeing you too together.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you! We had fun making this video together. :)

[@brendaanderson3680]

Hi Jennifer and Gregg. Thank you for showing the Aura. I am sure you will be doing other tutorials as well. I am definitely looking forward to it.

[@JenniferMaker]

We definitely will be! Thank you so much for watching! 😊🌻

[@aliceokerstrom2047]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge and talents.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks for watching 😊🌻

[@justinzak5025]

We are considering buying one of these for a small textile business to cut samples swatches. Do you think this would be a good option?

[@dree3587]

Thank you Jennifer and Greg, this video was awsome it clarified some of my questions. I am so excited and can't wait to see more of the laser cutter videos!

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad it was helpful! 😊🌻

[@rprmlr772]

What an amazing honest review! THANK YOU! It will be great if you would also please review the XTool M1 and do a comparison. It seems that both machine are for the hobbyist but I am now confused which one to get for my small business.

[@JenniferMaker]

That would be fun to compare and contrast them all! 😊🌻

[@rutherickson9419]

Thanks…I appreciate your generosity and I hope you continue with all the free tutorials and products you provide!! I also think Greg is a natural!! You too could do infomercials 🤣 you’re so cute together! Thanks again!

[@JenniferMaker]

Yes, we'll definitely continue with our free tutorials and designs -- it's really important to us! I will be sure to tell Greg what you said, too! (He also might just read it, of course. LOL)

[@belleb906]

The heck with the Aura. I love love love the two of you doing videos. ❤

[@JenniferMaker]

Yay!! I just showed this comment to Greg, and hope he does more with me!! ❤️

[@TALISHAMON]

Thank you for the video and those wonderful files. The files opened in my canvas workspace and look great. I have the Glowforge Plus, never opened; but the Aura looks so easy and nonintimidating.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you so much! And I agree, it's a great entry level machine. 😊🌻

[@SahraHayal]

hello! would you recomended for fetlt accesories?

[@JenniferMaker]

Felt? I don't believe so. 😊🌻

[@myrtistrexler7037]

I have just bought one…would love for you to do tons of projects for us to see.

[@JenniferMaker]

We're working on it! 😊🌻

[@jsthomas1774]

Just watched this video!!! Hope to see more videos on the Aura. I would love the frame pattern you did with your cat.

[@JenniferMaker]

It's available on our blog, linked above. 😊🌻

[@nickimaiorano5632]

Omg I've been thinking of getting one!! You two are so adorable together!! You've been my cricket 'go to' expert for years. Now you both are my going to be my glowforge duo!!

[@JenniferMaker]

Aww, thanks so much! ❤️❤️

[@Special-T_Crafts]

Thanks Jennifer & Greg for the review! May be something down the road. I would love to have one.

[@JenniferMaker]

We're so happy you enjoyed it! 😊🌻

[@sarithaprashanth_23]

Looking forward to see more videos on other lasers.

[@genicemilliner7667]

If someone has never used a laser cutter/engraver before would you recommend the Glowforge Aura over their other machines? Thanks!

[@JenniferMaker]

I have not tested other machines yet. I will in the future!

[@susanhilley8977]

Love seeing the both of you together! Can you engrave a tumbler in the Aura?

[@JenniferMaker]

You cannot engrave a tumbler. ❤️

[@ath_documentary5015]

Enjoyed seeing both of you explain this... hope to get one. Curious if you can bring PDF's of pictures in or if they need to be SVGs

[@JenniferMaker]

PDFs don't work, but JPGs and PNGs do.

[@claudialowe2727]

Hi Jennifer and Greg! Your tutorials are wonderful. Do you have a tutorial that addresses the Glowforge Pro and Glowforge Plus? I’m looking for the next step up in Glowforge family. Thanks!

[@JenniferMaker]

Not at this time.

[@Larareyes31]

I have the Plus and I'm lovin' the butterfly😍😍😍 will definitely make one

[@JenniferMaker]

YAY! I would love to see it when you're finished! 😊🌻

[@ouamaiahtra6722]

Looking forward to more videos on reviewing other laser engravers. One thing that is intimidating is the venting and filtering and maintenance and cleaning of the lasers; feels like a lot to go through if I’m not going to be using it often.

[@eneidaorchard6508]

I'm so glad Glowforge finally came out with a laser I can use. Greg did awesome with you on your video, he should do more of them!😊💕

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you, I told him you said that! :)

[@ursulap4568]

Y’all are gorgeous! So great to see you two together on this video. The pictures, especially the one in Hawaii, is so sweet but seeing you in action together is just fabulous. I’ve had my eye on a GlowForge for many years, but like many people it was not practical to spend that kind of $$ as a laser beginner. I’m hoping to get this one in the future! Thanks for another great video. You are the BEST at giving all the info we need to be makers. Big mahalo to you both! 🤙🏼🌺

[@JenniferMaker]

Aww, thank you! We had fun making this video together, and I'm glad you enjoyed it, too!

[@MonkeyBusinessMan]

That’s what I thought too. Such a lovely couple.

[@marlenet5449]

Is there any work around for clear acrylic? Like using an opaque acrylic?

[@JenniferMaker]

I am not sure yet -- more research needed!!! :)

[@carolinek4655]

Hello! Can you engrave on thicker pieces or only on the proofgrade materials? Thanks for the review!

[@JenniferMaker]

All the materials available now, we have listed here (it's a lot for a KZbin comment 😊🌻 ) - jennifermaker.com/glowforge-aura-craft-laser/#materials_are_easy

[@ILoveBnNatural]

I would like the frame file. Thanks for the honest review

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you for letting me know!

[@jillkozak5057]

Can I use Cricut chipboard on the Aura?

[@BobbieBTexas]

Awesome review and I’m getting closer to wanting one and now buying it

[@JenniferMaker]

Cool 👍

[@annekim2634]

Can you persuade it to cut clear acrylic by adding a dark sheet to the top or bottom?

[@JenniferMaker]

I'm not sure -- we will experiment. :)

[@shellyyarrington6690]

Thank you so much for the review. I am looking at it to use with my embroidery machine, I do a lot of applique, will this work with embroidery designs?

[@JenniferMaker]

I am not exactly sure in what you are asking about in regards to embroidery. Here is the website. glowforge.com

[@lashundarice5869]

It was great seeing Greg…. Great video.

[@JenniferMaker]

You're so kind! Thank you so much for watching! 😊🌻

[@Chellybelly_813]

Great video guys! So you can’t cut the mirror acrylic?

[@JenniferMaker]

Unfortunately, I haven't seen anyone successful with cutting the mirror acrylic with the Aura.

[@debbielukacs7606]

Can you use wood from Home depot or Lowes? I think the glowforge is expensive to cut on all the time. Thanks

[@JenniferMaker]

I really prefer to use the Proofgrade Materials, since I know what they contain is safe for the machine😊🌻

[@tracyturner4365]

Great information! You two are adorable together ❤️.

[@JenniferMaker]

Aww, thank you, Tracy!

[@annepotasky1387]

Will the GF Aura engrave cutting boards or other thicker items? I know you said it is unable to cut greater than 1/4" thick, but can it engrave thicker things like metal laptops or the back of phones or other metal items?

[@JenniferMaker]

We have more information on the blog post, linked above. 😊🌻 Thank you so much for watching!

[@denisesuratt7372]

There was no mention of engraving on glass? Have you tried that yet? I have a Pro but am having problems with it engraving double. I have replaced the main belt, one side belt and the white ribbon and no luck yet. I have had mine for about 4 years and am wondering how long you have been using yours and if you have had any similar issues?

[@JenniferMaker]

I have not tried that yet. But we will. :) We've had ours for I think five years now. I'm guessing, but that seems about right. We did have to replace the main belt, but only because it was accidentally installed wrong after cleaning. Otherwise, no issues.

[@thefarmhouseIN]

I have been wanting to try a laser, but I was worried it would be too complicated. This one sounds like the perfect one to start with. Thanks so much, I can't wait to watch the other videos!

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad I could help!

[@yolandabrnitez2603]

I love to have this machine but I have a question you mention the price of 1199.00 and I saw in HSN they where sale the same machine retail 1499.00 and was advertising on special value for 1299.00 why is that.? You guys have a better price. What is the real price for this machine?

[@vzburns1]

​@@yolandabrnitez2603 I watched the glowforge live the other day and it sounded to me like about 1200 is the normal price because they were "on sale" for $1000 and they said they were $200 off.

[@max-fm3xx]

I went on Michaels website and its in the states when will it come to Michaels in Canada ? or where can you get in in Canada thank you

[@TisaJackson]

Thank you so much for the review. I own a glowforge and thought this new one was a ‘mini’ of my current laser. There is so much to learn.

[@JenniferMaker]

Glad I could help! 😊🌻

[@brookelanigan6166]

Just got my Aura today. Can't wait for you to make some more videos as I am lost on the software.

[@JenniferMaker]

Yay!! Stick around for my tutorials!🥰

[@puffmom470]

Can you paint the backside of clear acrylic with black paint and get it to engrave?

[@JenniferMaker]

I just read in the comments that you can put a piece of black card stock behind it to cut.

[@puffmom470]

@@JenniferMaker Will you please try both methods for cutting and engraving clear acrylic?

[@paydayismyday]

Thanks so much for sharing with us. What is the max size that it can cut?

[@JenniferMaker]

It's 11.5" x 11.5". Thanks for watching! 😊🌻

[@oricle81]

Thank you Jennifer and Greg! This has been very informative and really interesting! I wonder if they will be coming to Australia...? Look forward to seeing this series! Thanks again!

[@JenniferMaker]

Happy to help! I am not sure about Australia -- I will inquire. :)

[@arlenesymes3452]

I love all the new crafty things cricut venture and this glowforge aura but As always it will be probably be months and heaps more exspensive in Australia. I will keep dreaming and wishing 😊

[@elaineellis7394]

You two are the best!! I tell everyone about your site and how helpful you are, love from Hobart, Tas. xxxxx

[@JenniferMaker]

Aww, thank you, Elaine!

[@keithmalcuit]

Hey Jennifer. Is there any way to get that shadowbox that is shown in your intro?

[@JenniferMaker]

It's design #409 in our library 😊🌻

[@LouRao]

Is any of the materials that can be cut with Glowforge must be there materials? I was told Glowforge is proprietary, meaning you have to use there materials. Thank you for any feedback.

[@JenniferMaker]

There are Non-Proofgrade materials available, we haven't used them however. 😊🌻

[@michellemendes82]

Just a FYI…….to engrave a clear acrylic all you need to do is have a black cardstock under the acrylic on top of the crumb tray. Did several of the acrylic nightlights that way.

[@maforman82]

I loved this video, thank you! It’s so awesome seeing both of you demonstrate a cool tool

[@JenniferMaker]

Yay! We loved making it together -- it was way more fun!

[@stephanietorres5667]

Can you use clear frosted acrylic or gold mirror acrylic with the Aura?

[@JenniferMaker]

I'm not exactly sure on these, I don't believe so. Ultimately it comes down to whether or not it can be used with a diode laser. 😊🌻

[@vzburns1]

​@@JenniferMakerthe glowforge people said it has to do with the type of laser it is and that the aura's laser has to be able to "see" what it's cutting and that's why it can't cut clear acrylic. I'm curious if you put a colored backing or used water-based paint or something like that to make it not clear if the aura could then cut it.

[@fayepeterson713]

AS for cutting clear/light coloured acryclics,... can you put a dark masking on them to counter that problem?

[@JenniferMaker]

I don't believe so. 😊🌻

[@dabadoo62555]

Jennifer thank you two so very much love you

[@JenniferMaker]

Thanks so much! 😃❤️❤️

[@cydneejaneargumedodawson8650]

I love your cat photo & tree of life plaque! These are so cool. You both are so talented. Thanks for sharing. I enjoy watching & learning from your videos 😊.

[@JenniferMaker]

Thank you! I am happy to help!

[@chinonyennakwewhitley5738]

Can you cut multiple layers of crepe paper? Or materials that are not purchased from glowforge?

[@JenniferMaker]

Not sure about multiple layers of crepe paper! I'm adding it to my list of things to test. And YES, you can use materials not purchased by Glowforge -- look for "laser safe" and "laser compatible" materials.