Top 10 Reasons Why Laser Engraving Businesses Will Fail

[@danielwharrison]

I started my business August 2022. Only 3 months in and it's been amazing. I don't have a website and I'm staying away from online sales. I want to support my community and stay local. Every time I go to town I find a business, snag their logo off their Facebook page, design it in corel/lightburn, make a few hats and a tumbler, then deliver it in person. I've only had 1 business not give me a call YET (still hoping). People are lazy, they don't want to deal with catalogs or the back and fourth of getting something made. I bring a high quality product, fast turnaround, I deliver, and I'm a local veteran business. The economy had me worried I would fail but you can't fail so long as it's not an option. There are 2 kinds of people, people who know they will succeed, and people who know they will fail, they are both right. Failure is not an option.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for sharing your experience sound like your on a great trajectory!

[@LaserEngraving911]

@@DanielIvan707 Thanks!

[@joshswenk1967]

Amazing work bro. When you deliver the business a hat and/or tumbler with their logo, do you just ask for the manager or owner then tell them what you can offer them? How does that conversation go down to ensure you get your point across. Thank you!

[@richardholtz7442]

I quit my full-time job working for someone else a year ago. I absolutely can't go back. I can't live that life anymore.

[@HernanHH95]

Those last lines hit

[@thedirtyn9335]

Bro, your passion and the fact that you’re speaking from experience and giving genuine advice without any sense of ego is really refreshing. Thanks for all the advice appreciate your work man

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thank You for that, glad you got value from it 👌

[@angelas8451]

As someone who has been using 3 different laser engravers for 3 different materials over the last 2 years (and I'm a fast learner), I have to say this man has really been through it and he knows EXACTLY what he's talking about. Take what he's saying seriously because if you don't, its not a matter of if you will run into these problems, but when - and how expensive that lesson will be. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into your videos, Michael ❤🔥

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thank You!!!!!!

[@angelas8451]

@@LaserEngraving911Thank YOU!! 🌷

[@SandraJeanneDesign]

Since day 1 of staring my laser biz, I have always sent mock ups to my customers. It prevents so many headaches. Totally worth the extra time.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Worth it, must do!

[@haatib42]

What do you design on?

[@SandraJeanneDesign]

@@haatib42 Adobe Illustrator

[@FranktheDachshund]

Help prevent a Spinal Tap Stonehenge type incident.

[@paulgreen2863]

Reasons why. I have a sawmill. I bought it to finish building my 40x40 shop. The first cut-off of the mill is generally thin. When sanded and oiled, they are beautiful. I thought hand burning or hand engraving would turn these pieces into something nice and not fire wood. Since I am not an artist... the engraver is it. I also have a wood lathe. Engraving the bowls, cups, and mugs that I make would be a plus. I tan hides. I think engraving a deer hide with something unique would draw attention at a market. Making table tops, bench backs, logo buttons, or whatever is what I have intention of with an engraver. If I make money, that's great. If not, then it will fit right in with the rest of my hobbies. Since I am not a very good businessman, the advice you gave is invaluable. Thank you. I have taken enough of your time. Again, thank you for the video.

[@torresaurus_]

I've been trying to learn about laser engravers to buy the correct one. I came at this video looking for one answer but left with ten more that I didn't know I needed an answer for. Thank you, truly. I hope everyone in the same boat as me finds this, too. You rock!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks awesome! Glad it helped!

[@ob1coyote]

I'm in several diode laser facebook groups, and the biggest thing I see are people that want a laser businee, but they don't want to learn anything, or make any effort. They want designs free. They want someone to tell them how to do it. The idea of burning a test grid on a material is unthinkable to them. "Just tell me ythe settings!"....

[@LaserEngraving911]

Well that's not gonna help anybody! I like to teach people "HOW" to fish not just bring them the fish.

[@ramiroarjona8196]

I have a buddy who's an engraver, of all things known to man, and I suppose not all rules apply. Meaning he has no social media of any kind and no advertising and he's just killing it. Charges $22 more an hour than his competitors and is still dominating the scene. Hard to do In the DFW area but is doing it. He has an old school approach to everything he does and it works. Works 6 hours a day, no weekends and takes 4 two week long vacations a year. Don't know his secrets but he mastered it

[@LaserEngraving911]

Word of mouth is all powerful! Thanks for sharing.

[@bassplayinggoalie]

It'd be really interesting to hear his philosophies. Is he willing to share them?

[@TikiRicks]

I personally have started 2 successful small businesses from scratch and then sold or retired from them. Recently I made a major move and life change and am in the process of starting a new small business where I would be using a laser cutter and engraver, so I wanted to watch some videos to get feedback from people with real world experience, machines reviews, etc and came across this post. This video is about as good as it gets on things to keep in mind when starting almost any small business that provides a service or custom product. I have practiced and experienced some of these things myself and plan to use both this information and my accumulated knowledge going forward in my new venture. If planning to start and engraving or any type of small business, do yourself a favor and let what he is saying here sink in. Kudos Sir on your honest, and from what I can see, well informed video.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for taking the time to comment and I'm glad you got value! Wishing you well in your next venture!

[@JSAFIXIT]

One thing that helped me was practice practice practice. I'd go out to second hand shops and buy a bunch of random things, odd shapes, different materials and use them as a cheap sacrificial base to learn on. I even just went outside and collected stones to try, went to a counter top manufacturer and got scraps of different material they use etc. You can learn and do trial/error cheaply if you are resourceful.

[@LaserEngraving911]

yep, when I first started I pretty much engraved every in my house I could get my hands on practicing, still always testing and practicing even today!

[@JSAFIXIT]

@@LaserEngraving911 I was a smartass and engraved a spider on my wife's hair brush. She's terrified of them. It got her more than once lol

[@geekdomo]

2:30 - As a pro photographer running my own studio for 20+ years I have to say I agree 10000% with your statement. Generally the people that want cheap are also the ones that will be the WORST when it comes to being picky and pushy later on in the process. I hate to say it but the people with larger pockets tend to understand more what goes into a product and appreciate it more than someone wanting a wedding for $150.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for validating that using your real world experience! and Thanks for watching!

[@kastlrock557]

That’s very true! It takes experience to walk away from that sale, a sale doesn’t always bring profit or happiness. The smallest deal brings the biggest problems! The customer is not always right and experience will allow you to spot them from the beginning. Just remember, someone is always gonna do it cheaper, not for long as it doesn’t work, but someone will always replace that cheaper person, don’t succumb to doing it at there level and it’s fine to say no. Quote-unless you say no, your yeses will never count.

[@darkhorseeuc]

I’m a former wedding planner and can back this as 100% accurate.

[@beecano22]

My husband and I are starting in this business. At least that’s the plan. Any advise on where to really start would be greatly appreciated!

[@beecano22]

@@LaserEngraving911 my husband and I are really considering in getting into the engraving/ cutting business. We would appreciate any advice please..

[@Splatterpunk_OldNewYork]

Forget lasers, this is good business advice period.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for that!

[@gaiustacitus4242]

You are 100% correct about avoiding undercutting other vendors. When several vendors start undercutting prices in a race to the bottom, the end result is that most of them go out of business over the course of a few months. Those who set reasonable prices and do not waiver will see a decline in revenue but eventually prices will return to a fair and reasonable level. FWIW, I don't buy from the lowest cost vendor because I want to avoid knockoff products, good customer service, and a vendor who will be in business over the long term so I can make additional purchases in the future.

[@fueledbyfumes8016]

My business partner and I started a laser business about 6 months ago but we started expanding in far too many directions. We now do sublimation, vinyl, HTV, clothing, hats, tumblers, etc we just recently added custom embroidered patches and 3D printing. If we fail it’s likely cuz we have our fingers in too many pies.

[@cxrlplays1038]

Tysm for your honesty. You just helped answer so many questions I’ve looked up and every video had no answers for it. You’re an amazingly huge help!!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Awesome, so glad you could gleen some info!

[@patriot9560]

Spot on Amigo! The only outcome in a race to the bottom is that all participants will get there! It’s very easy to lower prices and almost impossible to come back up.

[@LaserEngraving911]

well put!

[@markconroy9033]

Replace the words laser engraving with family portraits, transmission rebuilds, pet grooming, dog walking, etc.etc. This is all just excellent sound advice. Been there and done that and have nothing I can honestly add. Start small with the resources you can reach and the talent you have. There’s a sweet spot in small business where you look professional without having a storefront and employee overhead.

[@christyler1647]

Exactly. I was going to post that I don't have this type of business but it is excellent advice for my guitar effects pedal business.

[@nancyford3334]

I am trying to get my laser business started. I am 74 and want to quit my full-time job and begin enjoying what I do again. I have made poor choices in purchasing a laser so now I have to rethink what I want to do. This video opened my eyes to issues that I was beginning to encounter and didn't know why. Thank you for this video. I have subscribed to your channel and will be watching all your videos to learn as much as I can. I have watch other videos and were taken in by their honest appearing advise. Wish I had seen this video sooner.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Nancy, I'm glad to hear you got value form this video! Thanks, and thank you for subscribing I hope I can bring you more insight in the future!

[@cockleman1]

Hi Nancy ,my name is Pete and I too are 74 ,due to circumstances I need to create a business for interest and a need to better myself .i have been researching regard to lasers and my question is on what machines to avoid.cheers from Deloraine Tasmania

[@AliHamza-uh6hl]

I really watched more then a 100 videos but i swear this one video taught me more then all of them combined... Thanks alot Mr Engraver

[@LaserEngraving911]

Hey Ali, what a nice comment! Thanks I'm glad you got some great value form this! Thanks for your support!

[@Chris-ri4je]

I've been in the laser business for 12 years. Good advice.

[@LaserEngraving911]

"Tips Hat To You"

[@design8studio]

Excellent points. As someone who spent years in the printing industry, on both sides (printing design and customer), clear proofs are absolutely essential.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for commenting! appreciated that!

[@MarshallEvans]

This is pretty universal. I'm a marketer. I have an hourly rate or a minimum. And I follow the same method. I coach tons of businesses on this. It matters.

[@fillmorehillmore8239]

I dont do lazer work, but I do art and Etsy was something I immediately went to as to see what I could price my art for. I was mortified to find out much of what I do (hand work) is selling for *what takes me * about $5 -10 per hour. Needless to say I will be attempting other avenues of selling.

[@BellucciStudioz]

the title had me thinking this was going to be one of those KZbin videos. But it was very helpful. You earned my sub. My girlfried just started her laser engraving business. She bought a laser earlier this year and has learned a lot. This info was very useful.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Glad it helped!

[@quibblyguy]

Hey brother, I’m glad I ran across your video. For the past 20 years, I’ve owned an IT company correctly. It’s actually called an MSSP but do the changes in the IT industry specifically for healthcare IT I have reached a significant amount of burnout. Since I work so hard, I lost my creativity and I’ve also lost my joint for what I do. Recently, I’m buying a late a couple laser cutters like but you’ve talked about their little expensive but it’s something I am enjoying using for engraving and laser, cutting wood plastic you name it also started getting into 3-D printing with the carbon fiber printers . One things I started doing for my clients is that I do floor plans for their houses I also have been doing 3-D printouts of the floor plan that’s required like fire skate plans behind doors. Also start doing metal engraving of the floorplans creating signs for their businesses, so this expanded me from just been an MSP to , enjoy myself with creativity and having fun again. What I’m getting at is I ran into your video today and you have been spot on about failure business and it doesn’t have to be like you’re doing with Mel engraving or metal printing but for any kind of company . I’m 56 years old and I’ve worked hard my entire life but I have definitely reached a point where I have been actually depressed and tired because I work so hard but with the economy things have changed and I just stopped caring your video motivated me and has put me back into a place where I actually want to enjoy what I do again so thank you .

[@quibblyguy]

Excuse the errors with the grammar, but I’m using a transcript on my phone to type this out because it’s too much to type out off the phone

[@LaserEngraving911]

Man what a cool story!! very glad you shared here and Im glad my video put some zing back in your life!! Thanks for watching and commenting!!

[@thefilthelement]

#10 is spot on. I can't count the number of times starting out that I said "pay me what you think is fair" and be way under paid or asked to make something they want to pay me half the cost of the example they showed me

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for commenting and sharing!

[@sdelzio1]

I like the pill box for travel, the box device, and the flashlight. Thanks for doing all of this footwork for us, Michael!

[@mpetero]

Great advice!! Burn out and pricing have been my mistakes.

[@brianbell2101]

Awesome advice. I’m just starting out. I have 2 years before I retire from my PD. So far I am learning a ton and am loving it. Thank you for the good advice.

[@LaserEngraving911]

You got this!

[@a.nonamoose]

What a great video! I wish I had seen this before I got started. In the last two months I've made every mistake you listed. Right now the burnout is the worst. My full time job has a huge workforce and the orders don't stop (not just engraving, 3D printing and sublimation too).. last week I came home and stayed up all night making orders then went back to work feeling miserable. Days like that turn the excitement in to questioning the decision to start a small business. Anyway thanks for this great content!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Sound like its time to get some part time help maybe, or start selecting which jobs you take on, or raise your prices! Glad you got value! form the video and TY for commenting! If you want do do private 1HR consultation I'm happy to strategize with you! you can book that here : ) www.sonomalaserengraving.com/product-page/1-hour-personalized-consultation-with-laser-engraving-911

[@tishburris1748]

I ran a laser business in 2005, for 7 years. I am getting back into it. I hit burnout back in the day!

[@LaserEngraving911]

it can happen! nice to hear your getting back in!

[@johnhubbard6262]

Went to your website - Just can't help myself, too many years in business I want to see if someone walks the talk. Your website is walking tall, somehow it makes me feel like I could do a small little one-off with you or order 10k widgets due yesterday. Bravo

[@LaserEngraving911]

LoL! Thanks for doing the deep dive! and Thanks for checking that I walk the talk! :)

[@krismilliken5285]

This video couldn't have been better time for me finding this. I got the glowforge pro and have been frustrated trying to figure out what mistakes I've been making since I'm all alone in this, making dumb mistakes. Thanks man for the advice. Already subscribed

[@LaserEngraving911]

Hey, Kris, glad to hear you go some insight from my video, Thanks!

[@GASNICABRUNATNA]

Glow forge was a mistake. Sry

[@johnpeck2316]

Thank you for taking the time to help others along. Trying to get my business off the ground and I fell like I’m in a rut. You re-energized my focus.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Yeahh! That's awesome to hear! Go out and get some! You got this!

[@goldridgedesign9069]

Right out the gate with good advice. Always stick to your shop minimum. It will filter out problem clients

[@LaserEngraving911]

Another good point Thanks!

[@KinoTechUSA69]

Machinist going into laser engraving, this video is incredibly helpful, thanks man.

[@LaserEngraving911]

You're welcome!

[@LaserRanger15]

I actually used to sell flatbed CO2 laser (one on your "speed" list) and currently in the galvo business. The "marketing" comment is spot on. I worked with several smaller shops and not only did they not have a marketing plan, some did not have a business plan either. it is well worth the fairly small expense to help your business grow

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for commenting! and sharing your thoughts on that!

[@AxGryndr]

This is great advice not only for a laser based business. I think it is great advice for any maker type business. For example, screen printing, vinyl, CNC engraving, wood working, and so on. I have a wood shop that if I had the time, would be a business. I have expanded my offerings to include CNC engraving and now working on laser engraving. The problem I have now is I don't have the home space to support all of the machinery but I also don't have the volume of work to support a commercial space.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks! I get that! your in a limbo state, sometimes we find ourselves there, it can be a hard call, Thanks for your support! and comments!

[@shilohwoodcrafts2955]

🎃 🎃🎃

[@BionMTG]

Retired Army guy here... Looking for something to do, and i thought it might be fun to make things, and sell locally, like at craft fairs, etc. I bought a diode laser system, and perhaps, if things go well, i'll look into the other types as a path of growth. I appreciate your insight, and I cant wait to get going, and learning this stuff.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Nice! Thank You for taking the time to leave a comment!

[@lorrainemia]

I stumbled across your Chanel as I began doing research on co2 lasers. I would like to say THANK YOU for such an informative video. Full of honesty and transparency. I look forward to learning more from you. 💥✅

[@LaserEngraving911]

Awesome, thanks for taking the time to let me know. !

[@paulgreen2863]

This is the second time I have watched this. Lazer engraving is a small part of what I'm doing. I bought a diode laser. It is due today. I have a customer lined up, but I have a lot of material to practice on before I do her work. I bought most of the bells and whistles for this machine, so as to your advise I will learn what it will do. I assure you I will watch it again. I can only go in baby steps right now. Thanks again.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Glad I could help, hope you make a some great stuff!!

[@mikesmith7989]

This is just what I needed to hear. Just purchased my laser and plan on taking the time to learn the machine. I getting ready to retire in about a year. That when I plan on making a side hustle. Great video and plan on watching some more. Thanks again

[@LaserEngraving911]

You are welcome and hope your enjoy your retirement! lucky!

[@kastlrock557]

Good things aren’t cheap and cheap things aren’t good, good people aren’t cheap and cheap people aren’t good! These have been my go to mottos for my business since day 1, I apply it to items, customers and employees and it’s made me successful in money and happiness.

[@LaserEngraving911]

well said.

[@Mmullis0001]

I’m glad I found this video. I want to start my own business and considering laser engraving. I know nothing so far. Looking to take a leap!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Glad you got some nuggets of info from my video!

[@TheSpineSplitter1990]

I started engraving using a diode laser about 7 months ago, but researched all about it months before jumping in. I can confidently say I do great work, have sold a good amount of signs/cutting boards/slate coasters and art canvas's. But then all of a sudden it went very slow, no emails, no calls, no texts. Just that alone makes me want to pull the plug on it this side hustle/hobby, but I still have hopes for it. Really awesome advice and video!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Keep at it, sounds like you got some momentum!

[@Painfulwhale360]

There is a local laser cutting business who only sells small stuff on Etsy and they buy $80,000 worth of 1/4 birch plywood from our local Home Depot each year because they sell so much. It’s all about the strategy. Don’t give up.

[@jarodmorris611]

@@Painfulwhale360 Why in the world do they buy it from Home Depot??? Surely there is a local supplier that has better quality and the owner lives in the community. I've used the HD plywood. It's not good. I get 3mm baltic birch for about $25 for a 60" x 60" sheet locally here in OKC.

[@blackdandelion5549]

@@Painfulwhale360 If he only sells on Etsy the fees he pays to Etsy are massive and he could be making significantly more if he had his own site and worked to finesse his skills to better projects listed on his own site. With every order on Etsy send a card with the business site so people go there instead of Etsy and he gets all the money (except fees for site and CC vendor or Paypal) and doesn't pay Etsy and people find it's better to buy direct from him than Etsy. I also agree on sourcing his materials from a supplier directly over a bix box store if he knows what he needs and he may find pieces that a big box store does not sell as well that he could turn into works of art.

[@baseddino]

All valid advice. Personally me and my brother got a retail space for producing podcasts. Its a lot more expensive and a hassle than it originally seems. You cant exactly shower, sleep, or cook at a retail space so its a lot less convenient. Definitely try doing things at home until you are no longer able to or really feel its worth the investment because you have many clients. Dont expect clients to just appear once you get a retail space, because sure a few people will come, but it won't be enough to make it worth it and you will be tied up into a lease its a big risk.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Well said.!

[@jdodd7840]

Outstanding advice. Some of these things I have already encountered. I am currently in a down time waiting for a focus lens because of not cleaning it. I got busy and forgot about it. Lesson learned. Working on getting a stock of spare parts now and figuring out the maintenance schedule to make sure this doesn't happen again. Started with a diode and found out fast that that was no where near cost effective. Working an entire day to to engrave a mediocre quality engraving on a cutting board was almost torture. But your advice on pricing is where I have struggled. Thank you so much for the tips. Love your videos.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Hey, Thanks for sharing your own experience! Glad to see Im on point with the video, glad you got some value from this, and thanks for your support! Means alot!

[@gr8bskt]

Which diode did you start with?

[@jdodd7840]

Sculpfun s9 with the extended rails. 5.5 watt output. Not a bad machine for someone experimenting or for hobbies but for business it misses due to power and the extra that has to be spent for an enclosure and exhaust either made or bought. I still have it and I am thinking of removing the laser to use the gantry for a plasma cutter to make small pieces for my other projects. There are a couple of videos out there on how to do it and I think it would be a great addition to what I do.

[@johnmessenger7292]

I love it, you said," if that's your bag". I haven't heard that in years, you're right we need to bring that back. Good advice too.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thatz one of my lines!

[@rickytudhope7484]

Great advice. "I can do it for less" is a race to the bottom.

[@magic.marmot]

This was way more educational than I expected. It's excellent advice for starting any craft business. I especially love the House Minimum.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thank You!

[@infernusifrit9348]

I bought my laser engraver to add to the other tools in my shop. I recognized early on it would be best used to broaden my ability to fabricate prototypes for my business. Pretty much anyone can afford one and do what you want to charge them for. Rather, use it as a tool.

[@commonsensepatriot9450]

The lower price game.... a race to the bottom. Great advice. Thanks for sharing.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@przemysawkuchta7236]

Thanks man. Laser and 3d printed projects became my hobby last December and boom, after 5 months, I decided to add these to my business. I have just a poor, NEJE laser (diode) but thats all I can afford for now. I already have money for CO2 laser, but first I must prepare a new room in my basement for it. Anyway, such advices are great. I started with my own projects (im not just engraving, Im focused more on separate projects which give me fun). Last time I felt like I'm burnt out, at least for some time, but really, such short film gave me some energy to continue my work there :)

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks really cool to hear, thanks for the support and keep up the fun!

[@kirkpreston7]

Great advice for someone like me looking to get into the laser engraving business. The comment about Etsy was a good one!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thank you! glad you go some value!!

[@OSCARTERAN1]

I star my business in 2006 and you cover a lot to success thanks for your info I appreciate.

[@LaserEngraving911]

You are welcome!!

[@Supernyv]

Number 7, gold! (It's one of the requirements of ISO 9001, nicely and easily explained).

[@tomlennie8538]

I agree with all your points except maybe 1, but a laser cutting business may not be for everyone this is a popular phase right now and I see the people seeing this as a good business venture may be pie in the sky for some. My wife and I have done craft shows for years and we have done well, and it was only by word of mouth and a reputation for giving people what they want! For example, after 9-11, we made and sold a load of "Americana" for 2 years after and then the sales in that area dried up to a point where we just had a couple Items on the floor or table. Just some background, we have made furniture and repaired antique furniture and had people call around the holidays requesting a gift their wife or significant other saw at one of the shows we attended, so they went shopping in my 7x 14 enclosed trailer. Because my wife is extra talented, she does a lot of table items to sell for novelty. As well as vinyl cutting along with resin work and a heat press for sublimation printing, We have backed off the woodworking end of it some because of my health, still have calls or request to see if I could build or repair something, never had one of my craftworks returned for repair. It all comes down to building a reputation as I said. We started making things and giving them away or dollar items at xmas. I had a cheap jig saw , later bought a cheap circular saw. Added a 90.00 table saw and so on. I now have a shop full of tools that is the envy of friends and neighbors. I was most criticized for my Craftsman table saw, (Only My second table saw in 40 years) and my last. I have shut down the critics as the tool is only as good as the operator. I keep it tuned up. So, to the point I would disagree on is forget getting into business right out of the box. Don't need a cO2 or fiber laser to learn on for the expense! You can make and sell items with a cheaper diode laser, and you can still deduct your depreciation on your equipment and materials. Do local and area craft shows. My time is not calculated, it's a hobby or side hustle, not a job, I'm retired and don't want to work. I do it on my own sweet time. Like I said, I agree with most of your points but the market for laser engraving is filling up fast and it's a dog-eat-dog world out there, don't get left sitting on a 3- or 4-thousand-dollar machine that you are wondering what to do with because it's not paying for itself. Don't take it as a personal flaming because it's not my intention, just that there are what seems like hundreds of videos out there explaining a business model. I see ads for lasers and easy payment plans and by the time that machine gets paid off, its wore out and it has not made your fortune. Some people can get the idea that it's a get rich quick plan when they may not have the money to dole out. All of my shop was built one show at a time and still made money for things we needed or wanted. We are however in the market for a laser engraver but with my own advice I am beginning with a diode laser. Good advice on your part overall.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for taking the time to share!

[@chriscarr4577]

I have questioned and searched for information the difference of the lasers. I learned what I was looking for through your video. Thank you!

[@LaserEngraving911]

YEs, That's great!

[@k.g9587]

I wish we found this guy before buying our first laser machine ..waste of money and o much frustration! But will be smarter for our next machine / upgrade

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks!

[@adamarzo559]

Can you elaborate? What do you mean by waste of money? Why are you upgrading your laser? I assume you must have a glowforge....?

[@LaserEngraving911]

@@adamarzo559 Hi There, I do not have a glow forge I have two Epilog Lasers, waste of money I was referring to using diode lasers for high production work, in a professional setting.

[@jeffro.]

Excellent guidelines. #10 & 9: that's so true! I have the hardest time with the first item, #10. With regard to #9, i ALWAYS get the customer to physically sign the proof.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thank You for taking the time to leave your take, appreciate it!

[@EnGammalAmazon]

Great job of presenting your advice. This could very easily be done for any small business out there.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Glad you think so!

[@workaholicada319]

What a great video! I just started working in this industry. I am very glad that your video appeared at this time. It saved me a lot of time. You speak very clearly and have strong expressive skills. Anyway, thank you for this wonderful content!

[@LaserItPro]

Great advice!! Only thing I would add is to not be afraid of negative reviews. Customers like to see how you handle projects. And if something goes wrong. You make it right. Buy a new item to redo etc. that goes a long way

[@LaserEngraving911]

Agreed, lesson can be learned form constructive negative reviews.

[@sunrisetacticalgear2676]

All Great advice!! Thank you for taking the time to put this together. My favorites are “learn a drawing program” and “set a minimum price”. Thanks

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks! and thank you for supporting my endeavors!

[@RedShift00]

Another bare truth, most people buying lasers are hyped into it by some of the laser groups on FB then three months later are selling because it's way too complex for them. Like yesterday I got flak for suggesting the person go with a K40 sized machine to learn versus the way higher priced 100w machines being hyped by people in the group.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Correct, there is a wide array of machine types now and some are good for small crafting and experimenting, and then there are machine for production work and businesses, my hope for this video was to clarify the differences. Thanks for the comment.

[@stuartjohnson5103]

Good advice for almost any small business. Thanks.

[@Tentegen]

Going over what kinds of lasers do what was a surprise clutch addin for this video. I am trying to find out what cuts foam and this was a surprise add in. Epic information. Thank you so much!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Co2 can engrave and cut EVA foam nicely.

[@dimis7944]

Bro thank you so much I started learning today cause I ordered my first laser engraver and this video is helping me a lot to get my ideas in order

[@LaserEngraving911]

No problem 👍 Glad I could help!

[@dian3145]

Great video! I “retired” 2 weeks ago to finally put 10 years worth of equipment hoarding to good use. Tried to do it as a side hustle, and the burnout was crazy! (Well, the real job was intense on it’s own). I spent a lot of time scrolling Etsy, I think one of the most damaging things is that the quality of most of the work is so sub par that it reflects badly on those of us that wouldn’t put something out there with all that over burn (not sure of the correct term, besides UGLY) Thanks for the great info, and the inspiring words… #1 is #1 for a reason!

[@LaserEngraving911]

I agree! My laser engraving is an art as much as it is a skill, and quality matters! and commands a better price too! Thanks for your support!

[@blackdandelion5549]

The issue not spoken about with Etsy as well is another person who sold his files on there literally lost money doing so after Etsy fees. Not only are the engravings and Laser cuttings to small cheap ornaments with your pet's name on them made out of the cheapest material, but sites like Etsy take up to 20% or more for their "cut", 40% if you don't turn off your ads feature which is auto turned on when you join, then paypal has business fees of 3% plus an origination fee that scales on the amount of money you are receiving. Even the metal engraved sterling silver necklaces are about $3 or less from China and can be ordered online in vast quantities and then engraved with a name for $15+. However the issue is after shipping and fees from Etsy and Paypal, how much actually goes into your pocket at the end? Don't get me started on things that aren't even finished, use the cheapest materials, and have no sanding whatsoever. . . . .Skill level - 1. Bought machine and files. Made hundreds of the same things and flooded the market w/ cheap junk.

[@DH-pz7bc]

I bought a diode laser just to use as an add on service to my current business. Mostly just for one off personalization items. I agree with diodes being slow. Just received my first order for 50 engraved water bottles from a local business. It’s going slow as hell. Product looks great though. If orders keep coming in like that it would make sense to upgrade.

[@TheSavanto]

What would you upgrade to?

[@thesplinteredfinger]

Excellent information! This popped up at the right time because I am just getting interested into lasers. I already do woodworking and CNC work and I’m thinking that this may be the thing I’m looking for.

[@87rajsingh]

How is the best method of marketing my business? Love the advice

[@juliuswilcox7327]

New to the laser business. Thank you.

[@JackInTheShop]

The people around me were just opposite. I started with a CO2. Everyone like the stuff I was doing, but always when I was going to start metal work. I finally broke down and got a fiber and converted my CNC router to plasma. Always learning.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Oh yeah there is great market for plasma and laser cut metal as well! I wish I had the room in my little shop for a nice plasma table, 👍

[@JackInTheShop]

@@LaserEngraving911 Yea Me too. LOL I have a 15X20 barn-top wood building with a 30X30 Longmill Router. I 3D printed an adapter to hold the plasma torch, A "BigRed" 60watt CO2. Hard to keep clean beside the router. then the planer, table saw small work bench. It gets tight. The Fiber and 2 3D printers are in the basement where I wanted the CO2, till I found out it would not fit in the door.

[@dn2988]

Most Videos like this are boring. I have made it to the end of this Video because everything that you are saying is very true and worth the watch if you are serious about a laser business...I left a like and subed you thanks for the good Video! I appreciate your time!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thank You!

[@bhaveshpatel9626]

This was such an outstanding and helpful video! I didn’t even know that there was a whole potential business possibility, but i just put a deposit down for the Wecreat machine that is coming out. Now I’m going to work with my 12 year old and teach her some entrepreneurship with the laser and watching educational videos like yours! Hats off man!

[@LaserEngraving911]

You're so welcome!

[@Cricuter]

I just got a WeCreat and have been loving it so far. My KZbin channel has been all about Cricut crafts for the last 3 years and now that I got my laser a week ago all I want to do is play with it! The WeCreat is so fun and easy to use

[@njesoj]

Greetings from Albania, this is the first video I follow, my compliments are very interesting. I would add one reason, you have to love the work you do with passion, during work there will be many difficulties, most of which you mentioned above, but if you don't have passion, it doesn't last long, you have to love your work.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Agree 100%

[@caleydeannbrunner85]

You actually can “engrave” metal with a CO2 laser using Cermark Paste, it leaves a black mark on most metals, glass, and ceramics. It is pricey but leaves good results. Also, you can purchase Alumamark metal sheets that will result in a black mark on gold, silver, and brass finishes!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for commenting! I think what you mean to say is you can "Mark" metal with a Co2 not "engrave " metal, just want to clarify the difference for the folks here. Using spray like Brilliance laser inks or Cermark, to bond the spray to the surface of the metal with a laser is not " engraving metal" it called additive laser etching, or additive laser marking because you are adding material to the surface, using the spray, when you are engraving metal you are "removing material" with the laser carving it away to create a deep engraving, and Co2 lasers unless they are in the 500watt-1000watt + range cannot do this, because of the wavelength of light produce, if you want to engrave metal deep you will always want to use a fiber laser. If you want to know more about the process of additive laser marking with spray in greater detail you can watch my video I made on this subject here. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmLFc6t6lL6SpLc I go over how it works at 9:19, thank you again for bring this up as it commonly need clarifying

[@USFreedom]

That's not engraving. It's marking.

[@FTroop37F]

Amazing info, thanks for sharing. The word of encouragement at the end applies to most of us and in any endeaver...thanks. You just saved me from pulling the trigger on a LASER that won't do what I want done. I want to engrave a logo and a serial numbers on 1/2" copper cylinders (plumbing). I just learned from you that I need a fiber LASER. I was also about to close the deal on a slowwww machine. Thanks for making this video, I just subscribed.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Glad it was helpful! Welcome!

[@cougar_mountain]

I was watching the video and you had some good points. Then you came to the machines. The machines you are talking about are so far out off my price range. Seems that basically if I can't afford the top of the line stuff I'm doomed to fail.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Hey Thanks for watching! don't need top for the line to get started, just mid range, I didn't have epilog lasers at first I had to work up to them, and I didn't have all the money to buy up front either, but I saved enough for a down payment and financed the rest, now I own all my machine a few years later, and I can reap all the profits I make, I know it can be uncomfortable to go into debt on a machine, when your not sure if your business will succeed, but I'm telling you it will if you put in the work, and do it right! and you will have those machines paid off in a few years or less. Your only doomed if you say you are 👍

[@TimHoundDog]

Just bought a diode laser at 24 watts. I mostly bought it to engrave wood projects. But I liked the ability to do metal as well as wood.

[@ABWOrturLaser]

Is that 24w power input or optical power output? The big craze in lasers just now are those lasers, ie Xtool, Ortur, Skulpfun and others offering “real” 10w and 20w optical power. Dought your 24w is output! Edit.. the are new Red diode Fibre lasers that can cope with metal engraving rather than via paint / marker pen Marking.

[@TimHoundDog]

@@ABWOrturLaser it’s marketed as 20w power from atezr

[@jarodmorris611]

@@TimHoundDog If it's a diode and marketed as 20W, then that's input power. Neje markets their A40640 as a 40W laser. There are videos on KZbin measuring the true output power at 10W - 12W. xTool, and a few others, actually use the output power in their marketing. "Ability to do metal as well". No, it won't. The only diode laser that truly engraves metal is the xTool 1064nm diode. You can get marking spray that will allow you to mark metal like tumblers, but it doesn't actually do anything to the metal.

[@williamhbynumiii5269]

Number 1! Believe in yourself! Great video.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Yay!!! True That!

[@Push_Start_Nova]

Thanks for the tips brotha. I started Taylored Products Nov 2022 and it has been a wild ride. I’ve already ran into some of the warnings you give and can attest. My next step is fully professionalizing the operation, getting my website dialed and getting fully on the socials. Thanks again for the encouragement.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Good stuff! Keep at it!!

[@memoriaengravings]

Agree in every point. Sometimes I feel bad for people that are selling for pennies and I know the job takes hours!!! Great video!

[@LaserEngraving911]

Right!

[@jd8618]

Totally agree, flat rate, don't do it for anything less than the house minimum. People will take advantage of you and try to keep the job cheap for them and get more than what they pay. I made that mistake in the CNC and handyman business. You cut one favor and next thing you know, customers begin slipping in extra work or customization that wasn't agreed on and doesn't fit the cost. You can ask for what every you want, surprisingly people will pay they just may not come back but to be honest you only want the ones that come back to be your returning customers.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Agreed!

[@AceBullion]

Thank you for the tips and advice. I am getting ready to buy one for my business so that I can personalise customers Jewellery and my own items. Thank you again. I do appreciate this video and you for making it. Especially the part of Don't get down on yourself! Perfect advice.

[@LaserEngraving911]

You are so welcome!

[@AliHamza-uh6hl]

Am literally in love with u man... U replied to everyone 😮am really amazed

[@LaserEngraving911]

🤣🤣 👍

[@angelakennedy7004]

Thank You so very much. I'm just getting started, looking for all the information I can get; I appreciate it.

[@LaserEngraving911]

🤩

[@PortableTaco]

Man, Thx, I was always looking to be the cheapest, and is hard, I will take your advise

[@LaserEngraving911]

Glad you can see my point of view. Thanks!

[@rychei5393]

Solid advice, where people seem to be making a TON of mistakes. Burnout is my level. I literally dread starting up for the season; soooo my price is gonna go up as a result. I seriously need it to slow down.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Been there, I feel ya! Take that time for fresh air when you can! 🤣

[@paulgreen2863]

I have but I'll keep trying.

[@wongkaka5411]

I've learned a lot from your advice. Especially, with the chart about the speed performence of different laser products.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks for watching!!

[@chrisdixonstudios]

All well said for any maker, subscribed. Although I been running crazy #8 for decades..just stay healthy and take time for faith and family and then you can work a super lot if you love it.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Well said as well Sir!

[@mauricethethespian8744]

Thanks for this… Now I gotta get some masking tape, prior to ordering my machines. Don’t think I’ll need the tool to bed that tape down. 😉😉😂😂

[@girishshah8929]

What this machine cam do is limited only by your creativity. Generate lots of ideas even if they are inspired from other people's work. Work on variations, see where it takes you, keep an idea book. One need not be limited by what people are buying, something completely new can also be done. In fact , it is more rewarding. Chase the possibilities. This business thrives on uniqueness, exquisiteness, novelty and design innovation. So being creative works better than being knowledgeable in this business.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Correct, I love when I see folks push the limits of what is possible!

[@jimpollockmusic]

Great video and inspirational, sir. I’m sure this has helped countless, aspiring businesses. Well done, indeed.

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks!!! :)

[@desparzaification]

I really appreciate you taking the time to make this video. Much Appreciated.

[@LaserEngraving911]

My pleasure! Glad you got some value from it!

[@Original_Waterboy]

The book The 4 Hour Work Week is an excellent tool and it mentions these things.

[@LaserEngraving911]

good book!

[@TwinLions777]

This video was amazing. I just ordered a polar 350. I can’t wait to get started. Thank you for your guidance

[@LaserEngraving911]

Thanks! Your off to a great start, keep learning all day long!

[@josephosorio5718]

Fantastic advice, Thank you. I am growing at a snail's pace because I am unsure as to the proper way to go, or how to do it. Your video has really opened up my eyes to where to begin... Thanks

[@LaserEngraving911]

You are so welcome thank you for your support!