How I Made $100k With My Chinese Co2 Laser Cutter Engraver

A single email sent to me over 18 months ago ended up being one of the best financial opportunities I've ever received. Ray Thank you for taking a chance on me. Your machine has been an incredible asset to my home business.
Interested in getting an RM Laser?
[e-mail]
www.rmlaser.com
A lot of you have asked about my masker paper tape here is what I use. www.amzn.to/3YozuDk
Thank You to:
Amy at Rust and Shimmer / rustandshimmer
Derek at Deakins wood shop / deakinswoodshop
Steve Woodrich
Family Name SVG Generator suncatcherstudio.com/
Stuff I use in my Shop if you purchase from this link it helps to support my shop at no extra cost to you.
www.amazon.com/shop/chadscust...
SOCIAL:
Instagram: / chadscustomcreations
Facebook: / chadscustomcreations

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Interested in getting an RM laser? [e-mail] www.rmlaser.com A lot of you have asked about my masker paper tape here is what I use. Http://www.amzn.to/3YozuDk

[@Killou]

Hey Chad, Yes we are interested in getting one of these machines ! We are in France, we have made contact with Ray and Angela for determining the right machine for our use, looks like the RM960 Pro is the one. We are currently searching for solutions for importing this machine here in France and then make the purchase We are trusting this seller because of your videos, we hope that we will be entirely satisfied like you are with your machine Our materials to cut will be mainly paper and cardboard, so i hope that we will be able to reach insane cutting and engraving speeds How is your machine is doing with thin paper ? Can you reduce the power enough to get good speed and precision ? Thanks Chad. Alex and Clémence from l'Atelier de Clem's Workshop

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@Killou That is great so happy to hear it. Yes the 960 has the ability to be tuned into even working with thin materials like paper and cardboard and can be run extremely fast. I am sure Ray and Angela will have everything covered but if you need any additional help reach out to me [e-mail]

[@Killou]

​@@ChadsCustomCreations Thank you for your answer, and thank you for you email, we will maybe reach out to you if we have questions regarding the usage of this machine, since you have now plenty of experience with it :) For now we are preparing all the paperwork for importing this machine the right way, then we will send you a little message to keep you informed if you want Thanks, merci, Best regards, Alex & Clémence.

[@KonG-rk4od]

Chad, Incredible work. Your products are on-point! It's heartwarming to see you busting your ass but getting paid well. This type of business definitely takes a certain type of person, as you stated, and you fit the bill wonderfully. I hope I find the bill I fit -- this ain't it 😆 Just curious: Specific to this market, what's the most challenging issue you face as a small business owner? Keep it up man!!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@KonG-rk4od I would say shipping took awhile to learn how to streamline but it came down to simplifying the sizes of my products and investing in a bulk amount of shipping boxes and supplies so shipping was quick and painless and whenever something is under 16oz having padded envelopes to get first class shipping rates to keep prices competitive.

[@user-xv5iw5zh4m]

It's not the machine, what's making you the money, it's your creativity )

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

😊 we make a good team, though if it was me with the just the scroll saw still there would be no way I could keep up.

[@user-xv5iw5zh4m]

@@ChadsCustomCreations its just the right tool for the job )

[@rightsdontcomewithpermits7073]

I would love to see how without those machines he would be able to make that much. Yes creativity is a part off it but definitely not the whole off it.

[@asiburger]

That's such a childish thing to say. Are you 12?

[@MrGylsen]

Hi Chad, great video about the machine, few questions, what program do you use to design with, the other program you use with the laser cutting machine, what wood do you use to make your products and what was the cost of purchasing the machine, do you know the difference between the ruby machine? Thanks 🙏

[@stevewoodrich5130]

I will add to Chad's review on the rmlaser. The support from Ray and his team is fantastic. I have had a few issues and mostly it was my learning curve. When I contacted Ray on my first issue which was I burnt one of the red dot lasers due to not turning my air on. Ray offered to send me a new one free of charge. However I decided to purchase a group of 10 so I had them in stock. I've had a few other issues and Ray and his team have helped me every time. I still work full time so I have not turned this into a business yet, however I'm planning on retiring from my full time job in 2024 and I plan on supplementing my income with this machine. I've ran this machine for hours making hundreds of 3" medallions for the Indian Tribe my wife belongs to and several other local tribes. I would still recommend this laser and this company to anyone looking for a laser.

[@asherdiy]

Wow - this is such a fantastic video, Chad. Thanks for sharing all the behind the scenes stuff on your laser business!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you for the kind words Asher! I love getting to share this stuff thanks for watching.

[@WORLDOFBLINGBLING]

I am really so impressed! You're so dedicated and hard working man! I love this :D You made me feel so excited about getting my machine and can't really wait to get started!!! THANKS A LOT CHAD, You're the best I found on here for doing laser work.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you so much for the words of encouragement, hearing that from you makes all the time spent fumbling around editing these videos together seem worth it!

[@WORLDOFBLINGBLING]

@@ChadsCustomCreations I said nothing but the truth! Your work and videos are really inspiring and encouraging everyone who’s getting into laser world! Ray was not mistaken by giving your that machine :D Keep up the good work man, I and so many others are always waiting for new content from you.

[@Fancylooks]

So inspiring to know about your hard work, thank you!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

¡Gracias Marta! I checked out your KZbin channel I am super impressed by your hard work also. Impressive talent!

[@Fancylooks]

@@ChadsCustomCreations OMG, you are like a detective or something to find out my real name! I am flattered by your comment. My channel is 15 years old and each time is more and more difficult for me to make my videos work, I am even thinbking about changing to a new channel... but it is so difficult... KZbin is though, I wish you great success with your entrepreneurship and your channel!

[@wilooh4112]

Thank you!!! I admire your transparency and honest review for those like me who are venturing into this business

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you Wil and welcome to the world of lasers!

[@croatica]

A great channel with amazing content! I'm learning a lot from your videos! Thank you! All the best from Croatia!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Much love from the United States!

[@ponder6]

Thank you for sharing your experience with us this is motivation for a lot of us!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Glad you enjoyed it.

[@bradswanson6788]

Impressive portfolio, thanks for sharing.

[@buzzwoodshop]

Dude! Great video first off. And second! That is a cool machine. I own an xtool d1 and it looks like I will also be getting this Co2. Xtool is an absolutely amazing company. ❤️🔥💯

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thanks so much! Man you made the right move Xtool is a great place to start. I love my RM laser for production work it’s a serious workhorse.

[@SL-vs7fs]

Very impressed with how open you are sharing your business details and backing them up with proof.

[@Ichabod_Jericho]

Anytime someone bullshits me around about how they really make a living, I either assume they’re completely useless at their place of employment or they are scam artists of some kind. Only honest people with honest work are willing to show you how they earn a living without arrogance or the “I’m too shy to mention” nonsense.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I really appreciate you saying that.

[@SL-vs7fs]

@@ChadsCustomCreations I especially chuckled when you clarified that you were talking about the revenue, and not profit. It’s funny how people use the word “make” or “made” to confuse.

[@Stinkerbelle62]

Ever since I saw your original post where you received and set up this machine and I’ve dreamed of this very one ever since.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It’s been a great machine.

[@Trupen]

awesome video!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you!

[@rokkosgeneral]

wooaaa just what I needed to hear... thank you Chad

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Happy to hear it best of luck to you!

[@user-ep9ik2ri4e]

Great video, I've been doing some research about these types of lasers, trying to figure out the benefits of this VS the Omtech 1624. Thanks for all the great details..I love you work and designs. Amazing video.

[@GeorgiaWoodsHomesteading]

Super proud of you Chad. Our tax guy would love you. He is who helped push us to really start sooner on our business since being married is a tax no no. 😅 Loved seeing the live edge work! Keep it coming. 💃. -Little sis, Nikki.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you! Yes me too that pine was cut up on your bandsaw I’ve already sold probably about half of what we have cut up.

[@jefflester7655]

I have had my RM Laser for a year now it's great do it as part time and Chad answered questions for me when I first got it thanks

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

So happy to hear that Jeff! Thank you for sharing!

[@rickpouley2857]

Great video! I love your ideas for your engraving business.. I have been thinking about purchasing a C02 laser later this year from my woodworking shop. I am up here in Northwest Georgia.. Glad to see another shop here in Georgia! Keep up the great work..

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you Rick! Adding lasers to my woodworks has been so beneficial for my business. Great to see another fellow Georgian.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@Shawnston Beaudoin last I checked with Ray I believe this set up is $5500-$6000

[@axelbrambila2802]

I bought an RM after you made your first video and it's been a great machine for the value

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

So glad to hear that, thank you for sharing Axel!

[@nctplarry]

AMAZING, Chad! I am so positively impressed that I simply do not have the vocabulary to express it properly, sufficiently, or accurately. Keep up your great work...and thanks for keeping us informed out here in the hinterlands. At one time, I was a Patreon-type supporter of yours; however, I had to divert some of my ancillary income to other important projects...and so I backed out for a while. But, after watching your most recent videos, I'm intrigued to reinitiate that arrangement. Actually, I wish I could drive from here in Tupelo over to Georgia and see your setup in person. Of course, the conversation would be priceless to me. Keep that pedal to the metal, sir, and know that you inspire countless "wannabes"

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Dr.Anderson great to hear from you! Thank you so much for the kind and encouraging words and also the time you spent as one of my patrons. For the time being I have set my patron to inactive I have it in my mind to figure out a way to bring more value to the supporters but for now it’s on hold. Ohio sounds quite nice my family and I are always talking about moving north to avoid these brutal summers we have down here.

[@nctplarry]

@@ChadsCustomCreations Understand. First things first, Chad. Take care of your family first!! Oh, and I actually live in Tupelo, MS (birthplace of Elvis), and I grew up in Starkville (home of MS State University), so I’m quite familiar with the summers filled with not only high temperatures, but also that humidity that will stymie a normal human! 🤣🤣

[@SteveBellCreates]

Your still the man Chad !! Great video mate and I loved the breakdown at the end keep em coming ❤

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you very much Steve, great to hear from you!

[@GuyWhoNeedsAWind]

You are such a Chad bro! Thank you for all the details and inspiration!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Haha a “Chad” in a good way or bad way I’ll take it 😅

[@GuyWhoNeedsAWind]

@@ChadsCustomCreations The best way! 🤣

[@markhalgreen8572]

Hi Chad love the video and the quality of your work . I noted with the Fieldstone sign you cover it with white tape before you laser. Is it a special type of tape you use. Keep up the good work.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It is, low tac paper based masking. You can find it under my Amazon links in laser materials in the video description.

[@adamgrim911]

Wow it sounds lime a great mechine

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It’s been great, I am thinking about buying the bigger brother the RM1390 🥹

[@the_real_fritzky9203]

This is a very great video.. I'll definitely get one! Man, you got someone here so excited about doing woodworking on another level and I thank you for sharing such a wonderful experience.. You are really creative it's true. 🎉❤ This is almost unknown here where I live.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you so much for the encouragement. I am curious where do you live?

[@the_real_fritzky9203]

@@ChadsCustomCreations you're welcome boss! I'm watching you from Togo.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Oh wow all the way in Africa, much love from the USA!

[@the_real_fritzky9203]

@@ChadsCustomCreations 👍😉.. U got it right, a little sunny someplace in Western Africa. I'm happy to read you again.

[@LaBizounerie]

I'm looking to get into C02 on my own channel and you make a great case for this one! I was having a hard time putting my trust and money into a not so well known foreign company, but this one seems to be more than legit! Also, it was very nice of you to quote Aaron...

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Yes that was always my apprehension also, lots of companies out there but dealing overseas it’s hard to know who you can trust. With me having direct contact with Ray the owner of this company and factory I do feel good endorsing him and his machines.

[@TheSwedishMaker]

Great video again Chad! looking forward to hear your reasoning on stopping your Etsy store :)

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you Pierre! Looking forward to sharing about it also.

[@michaelgasperik4319]

I got to this video from your vacucu video. You showed some of your lazer engraved products and i had to come check this out. I love woodworking, metalworking, and electronics. But I also worked for a plastics company in Nevada for almost 2 years, (Tripp plastics, in Sparks/Reno). I ran thermo forming (vacuum) machines and 5 axis cnc routes. Most of what we made was all the plastic parts that go inside of slot machines. I'm currently planning to build my own vacuum former, but I've always wanted a lazer cutter. Unfortunately they are expensive and I doubt I could build my own for much cheaper. Anyway, you got a new subscriber, YEAH!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Sounds like you have tons of experience using these machines. The prices I would say have come down drastically over the years on laser cutters. This machine featured would be about $5500 delivered in your area. But there are people who are too afraid to replace the worn out parts like the glass laser tube so always check your local FB listings and you might be able to snag a used machine if your wanting to save some money.

[@michaelgasperik4319]

@@ChadsCustomCreations thanks for the quick reply, and I will try looking for a broken one locally. That's a great idea. I've always been one of those people who can fix anything that can break. That's why I have been a maintenance tech for the last 17 years.

[@triplet1002]

Great video, thank you! Two questions, 1) where do you purchase your plywood supplies? 2) Coul you do a video of you setting up your RM Laser to a computer and the steps to connecting it to Lightburn? I have one on order but have no idea how to set the thing up. Thanks again!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Most my plywood supplies come from Home Depot or Lowe’s. Large acrylic I get from a company called grimco. I don’t have a video on setting it up very in depth but set up will be the exact same for any of these Co2 lasers with the Ruida controller so anyone else’s video will guide you through.

[@triplet1002]

@@ChadsCustomCreations Thanks for the info!

[@LisaThompson2020]

Beautiful work! Can I ask what kind of spray laquer you use for the small signs & coasters?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you, I started out using the spray cans of satin by minwax but that got really expensive, since I bought the homeright sprayer max and keep it filled and ready to go with Mohawk clear satin I can buy by the gallon. Best part is I never even clean my sprayer out.

[@ichangelives]

Awesome work!! The Roost sign at 23:00 looks incredible. Is that just a solid engrave and the natural way the the grain went or did you design it in software to give that effect?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I added that wood grain effect as a separate layer and had it burn deeper on those spots. Good eye.

[@ichangelives]

@@ChadsCustomCreations I have a sign to make I need to do a similar effect.

[@jefflester7655]

I have talked to Ray and he is very helpful just have to get with time change

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Yes time change is a bit tricky he seems to be most available from US morning time to lunchtime. His nighttime hours he is normally doing computer work and available to help.

[@pseebald1]

Nice work! Is that just regular black spray paint or a specific type? I’ve noticed some of your work out in the wild. It’s impressive

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I’ve come to like to use dark grey primer by rustolemum it appears matte black and if I want it to shine I spray it with a satin lacquer which makes it even darker. You’ve seen my pieces in the wild for real?

[@fightingblind]

Suncatcher studio is an amazing tool 😊

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I love it!

[@ThePecori]

Hi Chad, I love your work, greetings from Bulgaria! I produce some stuff and sell it locally and was wondering how to get darker engravings then I saw you spraying black spray over the products which is incredible idea. But what is the sticky material that you put on before engraving and what is the type of spray that you use after that? Will appreciate your answer a lot. Great work and keep on going!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Hello from the USA, yes inconsistency with Co2 laser on wood is pretty common so I decided masking and painting was my way of getting rid of the chance of bad engravings. I use 12” low tac masking paper based tape. If the wood has a high chance of bleeding I will spray with lacquer to seal up the wood grain first before painting with black paint. I have the tape linked in my Amazon links under laser materials in the video description.

[@malibu1969]

Great video, Chad! Could you share a link to the masking paper you use on your round signs? Love the concept!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Here it is thanks for the kind words! www.amazon.com/dp/B085635HFN?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzchadddow-20&creativeASIN=B085635HFN&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.9RX0388VQUF4&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_m_asin

[@stakkzip6638]

What’s wild is I’ve been looking up CO2 lasers for the past week and stumbled across this one. I’m in RVA and my sister DJ’s at The Park sometimes. Crazy find.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Haha too cool what a small world we live in!

[@jimc31]

Great video! What kind of wood do you use for your coasters?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Funny enough I am using the red oak plywood you can get from Home depot or Lowe’s. I think I calculated that I can get 250 4” coasters from one $90 sheet and turn around and sell them at $10 each for a total of $2,500 per sheet.

[@reidjensen569]

Well laid out video, and a great testimonial to RM lasers and Ray’s customer support. Just curious, you receive the laser in August and didn’t have it up and running until October. Was there a lot of assembly required? What was the reason for two months before it was operating, just getting familiar with the machine?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you for the kind words Reid. Took me that long because I was a little intimidated in replacing the laser tube that this particular machine needed. I made it a way bigger deal than it is you can be up in running the day it is delivered.

[@Williamchang23]

Great video and thanks for sharing. Where in Georgia do you live? I am new to the laser craft and just purchased a 80watt unit.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Middle GA, 80w is a great machine my first was a 60w and it took me a long way!

[@MyCalicoDreams]

Great video btw, I was wondering what type of tape you put on your projects when you engrave them? as in 4:53 of your video. Also, do you put on polyurethane before you spray paint? On my projects, I use painters tape when I engrave, but when I spray paint the engraved area, the paint will soak into the grains causing paint bleed where I don't want it and my edges are not crisp like yours.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It’s a medium tac paper based masking if you go to my Amazon links in the video description you’ll find it under laser materials. If I don’t pre treat the wood I will spray the masking with clear lacquer before adding the color it definitely helps with the paint bleeding into the wood grain.

[@doctorpd1959]

On the outside, this looks like the Thunder laser. I have the Thunder laser Nova 35/100 and received it on January 2023 and I still have not use it yet. This means that it is what you do with the laser that is important and not what laser that you have. Watching this video is inspirational and I need to get off my butt and start hooking up the laser to use it. I bought the Thunder laser to be used as a hobby because I am busy with my full time job (and it is stressful). The Thunder laser is in mint condition and still in its factory plastic wrapping. Shame on me 😞

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I’ve been there it’s intimidating at first getting it unpacked set up and running. But once you get to it you’ll be so glad you did. Reach out to me if you get stumped anywhere I am happy to help where I can.

[@cornelgheorgheasa3077]

Hi Chad. Great work man 👏👏. Can you please let me know, what's the protection tape you cover the signs? It is Vinil? Thank you very much 👍

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I believe it is paper based masking I have a link to it in the description

[@scaletownmodels]

The prices on lasers now is amazing. I bought a 45w Epilog laser around 20 years ago (yes, it still works) which then cost about $20k. Now I could buy 4-5 better machines for that much. 20 years is a long time but also not a long time to see such a price change.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It is pretty incredible how cheap they are now. My first Co2 Laser 60w was only $2k

[@-canopus-513]

a lot of it comes down to you yourself, doesn't matter how many tools you have or how expensive they are if you yourself aren't looking for commissions, advertising yourself and putting the effort in. You can make money off of basically everything, you just gotta find your market.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Truth, the foundation of any business is the person behind it, which requires a lot of grit and drive to be successful.

[@jacripmusic]

Hey Chad with the maple wood you use for the menu cube and how do you source it?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Actually that was tough to find since I needed them 4x4” I had a friend that works at a hardwood dealer in NY he actually had rough sawn 4” thick maple I paid for them and had them shipped to me. I had to joint them down and cut them myself. I believe there are vendors online offering 3” cubes though if you do a google search.

[@gonzaloguzman3288]

Hey man, awesome work! Do you live around the perimeter area? I'm trying to find out good places to buy planks of exotic wood from. Thank you and keep kicking butt!!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

No I don’t I live in middle GA but there is a place called the wood yard that looks like a great option maybe that would be worth the drive.

[@TheBoxster1998]

That is a lot of work for that amount. If you have not subtracted the cost of materials, then your monthly income is most likely around $3500 to $4000 per month. Which isn't a lot. I think with these type of business, it should just be a part time job. Especially when you are not making a consistent amount of money. However, you do some great work.

[@alphasxsignal]

Nice video

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you!

[@adamrperkins]

Chad- Love your channel. I know you are busy, but and idea for a video I would love to see is one on the design process. How much of the designs come from the clients themselves, and how much do you create yourself? And what’s your process when designing?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you Adam, that is a great idea for a video and I can definitely see it helping out lots of people who need a little help with producing their own designs I am adding it to my list thank you!

[@secretwoodproject]

Great video Chad. What is the biggest size piece that it can engrave on or cut? Thanks.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

The pass through is 36” wide so it can do pieces that wide and as long as you want. The actual work area is 36”x24”

[@secretwoodproject]

@@ChadsCustomCreations Wow, that is nice. Thank you. I emailed Ray and I am waiting to hear back.

[@RainyDayz]

@ChadsCustomCreations love this man! Is it possible to use the laser on sphere type products, like a globe?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

As far as I am aware using a chuck rotary like the xtool RA2 pro you can hold globes and rotate in two directions. I have a video showing off the RA2 pro if you wanna see.

[@DesignCutters]

I'm curious what was the masking you showed in the first fieldstone sign near the beginning of the video? It didn't look like transfer tape - more like vinyl. Hopefully it's a laser safe polyurethane rather than a pvc vinyl?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It’s a paper based masking link in the description for anyone interested

[@katzdo]

What do you use to smooth the edges quickly and nicely? And do you buy the qr code wood squares or cut those out?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

With the high PSI and powerful laser the edges actually come out smooth and relatively clean but I do spray with lacquer to seal them which keeps them clean to the touch and removes that laser smell. I cut the QR codes out with the laser.

[@thisusernameisntavailable3329]

What material are you using on top of the fieldstone products ?? That’s a great time saver

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Yes it is I put the link the the description since so many have asked about it.

[@freebird1963]

Informative video. If you don't mind what are you using for the QR maker ?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Lightburn has a QR generator built into the tools it’s so quick and easy I love it.

[@freebird1963]

@@ChadsCustomCreations Thanks. I forgot all about that. smh.. No memory left in my old age. lol

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@freebird1963 no problem at all definitely glad to help however I can. I am only 32 and I forget stuff like this all the time too.

[@elishacall1693]

What type of plywood do you use? Your engravings have a nice contrast and the wood looks nice and thick particularly for the QR codes for the Hyatt Hotel job. Any tips for the wood you use would be great! Thanks for all the info!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I stumbled into it but the red oak plywood from Homedepot it seems to give me pretty consistent results but I do run pretty slow maybe 250mms 75% on a 90w

[@elishacall1693]

@@ChadsCustomCreations Great Thanks!

[@omarflores323]

What is the decal-like vinyl called you used in that plywood to make your sign?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I put a link to it in the description for everyone

[@dustindavis4156]

What kind of tape do you use on the wood to paint the engraving and then peel off? Amazing work!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It’s a low tac paper based masking you can find it in the description Amazon links and laser materials

[@dustindavis4156]

Awesome I wasn’t sure if it was a type of vinyl or just masking tape or what but dang that’s amazing work bud!!

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@dustindavis4156 thanks so much! Yes and you may already know this but it’s best to not use anything with vinyl if you can as it creates chlorine gas when lasered.

[@stuartoldham4427]

Great content. I hope you are using some sort of extraction for fumes

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Thank you! Yes definitely I have actually routed the fume extraction up into the garage attic and out the second story window. Because it is such a long run I use a really powerful blower to suck the fumes out quick.

[@daveLin104]

Hi @chadscustomcreations how noisy are these lasers in use please ? Would it be too noisy to use at night in a detached garage on residential housing estate.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

No definitely not loud just sounds like some big computer fans when on, especially if you use an California air air compressor for air assist like I do.

[@troyjasmin363]

What is the material you are using over the wood to protect it, spray paint then remove ? Thanks

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Here it is my friend. www.amzn.to/3YozuDk

[@HowYouCanMakeIt]

Thanks for sharing. how do you think this laser compares to the Boss Laser?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I don’t personally have a boss but from what I can see same specs for a fraction of the price.

[@HowYouCanMakeIt]

@@ChadsCustomCreations I looked at the website link you had in the description but didn’t see the price. Nice to see your in GA I grew up in Kingsland next to the GA FL line

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@HowYouCanMakeIt price would be right around $5500

[@HowYouCanMakeIt]

@@ChadsCustomCreations thanks

[@goldennuggettv4848]

hello chad, that a great and inspiring video. am in africa,ghana. can i kindly know the type of material you stick to the wood before engraving? i figured after engraving, you spray and peel that material out. thanks

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Hey I added the link to it in the description it is a 12” medium tack paper based masking tape.

[@goldennuggettv4848]

@@ChadsCustomCreations thanks alot. is it ok if i reach out to you for some tips sometime?

[@johnstack4316]

The price of the laser did that include shipping and import fees?? How long from the time a person orders it does it take on average to receive it? Thank you for the great video.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Yes I believe that is the delivered to your door price. If they are already at the US warehouse i believe it’s about 1-2 weeks and if coming directly from China I think it would be over 2 month. But email Ray and he will let you know the exact details.

[@DirectorsGuild]

Hi Chad. Fantastic video. I live in UK and am a novice coming into this field, and would like to purchase this machine. What other accessories would I need alond with the base machine? There is some sort of Air Cooler, and a Roller device? What was it that you mentioned about Water Cooling? Would you still recommend this machine in 2023? What would be a base cost for starting up with the above items + the RM60(? full model number?) setup? Is there a UK supplier? (I looked at AliBaba and the machine costs around £600 but the shipping is £2800!! Do you know of any suppliers based in UK? Perhaps a video is needed explaining to newcomers like me about Laser Cutting Setup 101? Thanks! :)

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I think for the business minded person RM laser is the best way to go, and at the most affordable price, but co2 machines do come with set up and maintenance that can scare off some people. If you are wanting to just get your feet wet in the world of lasers I would recommend the Xtool S1

[@mouradezzemamy9350]

Comment from Morocco

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Hello Morocco, much love from the United States!

[@WooderBoyProductions]

Is that masking over the one sign you spray painted?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Yes it is it’s 12” wide low tac paper based masking.

[@WooderBoyProductions]

@@ChadsCustomCreations do you have a link where you get yours?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@WooderBoyProductions take a look at the Amazon links in the description I believe I have it under laser materials.

[@herbveitenhans3285]

How much of your work is spent in design? What programs are you using?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

A lot of the business is being a graphic Designer. I have gotten thru using a free software called Inkscape videos by logos by nick taught me everything I needed to know.

[@jefflester7655]

Chad do you have a chuck rotary for your machine if so which one I have a 4 wheel looking to get a chuck to do Christmas balls

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I haven’t gotten a chuck rotary for my RM laser. Just the roller style Although now I am curious if my RA2pro rotary would work on it?

[@ajvaldez]

Great video. I am thinking about buying a laser but I think the RMlaser is out of my price range.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Understandable, if you’re wanting an entry style laser maybe a diode laser like the Xtool S1 would be a good fit?

[@FreckledGingerGoes]

When you paint before masking, does it not pull the paint off when you remove the mask? Newbie question 😊

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I use a medium tac masking and it does a great job of not ripping off the previously painted surfaces.

[@0nyxh]

Hi. Thanks for the video. I'm a little confused here, are you saying that, for ex, a 100W Co2 for OMTech that cost almost 5,000USD is bad?..

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I don’t personally have an Omtech but my understanding is they take machines like my unbranded eBay laser put their name on them claim they have American support and sell them under the name Omtech. The specs of their machines are fine but the RM laser in my test can run about 5 times faster.

[@triplet1002]

How often do you clean the lasers lens? What do you clean it with? How often do you replace the lens?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Depends on what material I am cutter or engravings, sometimes I clean once a week, sometimes multiple times a day. If you keep it clean you won’t have to replace the lens but it’s always good to keep extras on hand for if they get burned. I clean with isopropyl alcohol and q tips

[@triplet1002]

@@ChadsCustomCreations Thank you!

[@faerieworks7170]

I think the top wording on the whiskey bottle came from the manufacturer he just engraved the greater clark county school part.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Oh I think you’re right!

[@freman]

I'm just getting started, and I have no illusions about actually making this a primary business for me but for the purposes of accounting... how on earth do you keep/track your raw materials/supplies/costs associated with various jobs? A local mechanic for example has asked me for a bunch of coasters, I get 78 per sheet of material... but you know, he might only order 20. Come tax time I wanna be able to say "$50 isn't entirely income, $20 of that went to buying materials"

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I am not an accountant but I keep my receipts and with MINT I can sort all my expenses by retailers so it will list out all my cost from various vendors that I know I am using for supplies. I know that’s over simplified but come tax time that’s how I do it.

[@mechhead32]

You should of let me know I could have visited "The Hotel" and seen your work in person.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

It’s all good, It was a coincidence you guys moved to Utah right when I was working on that job. I have some work in Sweden can you go get some video of them for me? 😅

[@blackhatairborne7174]

Do you recommend this machine, how is support and parts,

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Yes I do, if you have the space RM laser is industrial quality at an affordable price support has been great for me.

[@sansivian]

How much was the machine itself and how much is the maintaince (parts/ monthly electrical)?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

In the US about $5500 not sure on electricity and a replacement tube is about $500 but still using the first one.

[@zchan1120]

where can i buy it? there's no price or anything on the rm website

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I believe he is still working on direct order platform through the website but he has been taking orders through email his [e-mail] let him know Chad sent you. In the US price for the RM690 was around $5,500usd

[@rusticagenerica]

Important question : why aren't there any multihead laser cutters or engravers (like with 4 or 8 heads)

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I think there are but they do the same thing at the same time.

[@mariozagers]

Hello chad.. i am impressed from your videos. i see a lot of laser and i am curuius about wat is the best laser engraver machine to start your buisenis, i want to make burning plywood and marmer engraving aslo i want to engrave rings and jewelry, i also saw in a auther vidieo the x tool can you gif me a idee so that when i buy something that it is not enuf and to little over a few years to lower the cost greeting mario

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I think the best one for a beginner right now is the xtool S1

[@erich5196]

Is there any kind of a price list anywhere? I would like to see that prior to contacting anyone. It makes it easier to either rule out or short list.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I agree with you. Sadly I don’t believe so but it would hurt to email and ask for it. This model cost $5500-$6000 delivered in the USA.

[@car9167]

Is that $100k profit or revenue? If revenue at what percent and did it cover the initial investment + consumables?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Just revenue sorry I know people would like a lot more detail I will try to include more of that in future videos.

[@joelochoa7958]

How much do these lasers cost? I was looking on the website at couldn’t find a price.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

In the U.S. this model cost about $5,500-$6,000

[@RobSandstromDesigns]

How do you seal your coasters and outdoor signs?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I personally use satin spray lacquer by Mohawk.

[@RobSandstromDesigns]

@@ChadsCustomCreations thank you. The lacquer is holding up on outdoor signs. That is good to hear have a couple people wanting outdoor signs and trying to decide best say to make them so they will hold up and last.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@RobSandstromDesigns I think ultimately everything will deteriorate overtime especially in the sun but lacquer to my knowledge won’t yellow like other finishes. And when refinishing it doesn’t required sanding since the new coats will burn into the previous coats.

[@fredsmith7964]

Sorry if I missed it but how much is the list price for this laser?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

In the United States it would be about $5,500-$6,000 but that can change drastically depending on the country it’s being delivered to.

[@adked1841]

Chad...Do you like this laser more then your Thunder?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I ignored the emails I got from thunder 😅 so I never got one. So I can’t say.

[@adked1841]

@ChadsCustomCreations my mistake Chad...I thought you replaced a Thunder with this one...

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@adked1841 no worries this one replaced my No name red and black eBay laser.

[@DerekFelts-tk4jg]

Maybe I missed it, but how much did the machine and shipping cost?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Sadly I had to remove that part because the price does vary a lot depending on the country in the USA it sales for $5500-$6000 and that includes shipping.

[@antennasbc]

I'm shocked they went for plywood on the hotel job. Imagine how amazing they would look out of maple or otherwise real wood. Did you think about using real wood or was it always plywood. Maybe I am biased but there is so much plywood garbage around now they folks have diode lasers. I enjoyed the video.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Glad it worked out.

[@elliepixelart9068]

What brand of laser are you using?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

My main production lasers are RM lasers you can find more info about them in this video

[@KWANTlZE]

what tape or cover do you use when you paint them

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I put a link to it in the description

[@KWANTlZE]

@@ChadsCustomCreations thanks

[@KWANTlZE]

is it the Transfer Sheets ?

[@KWANTlZE]

thx I will buy from your link

[@mgodoy]

Que papel usas para usar de mascara y luego pintar?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

www.amazon.com/dp/B085635HFN?linkCode=ssc&tag=onamzchadddow-20&creativeASIN=B085635HFN&asc_item-id=amzn1.ideas.9RX0388VQUF4&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_m_asin

[@hungerjames4072]

Hi Sir Chad, hope you can guide me on how i can start my engraving business. you inspired me in your journey how you start your business. My desperately asking for your help. Thank you

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I am here for you James if you have any specific questions let me know.

[@13hubi13]

May i ask you how you landes the hotel job? Did you talk to them first or wrote them or how did it happen 🙈

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

They actually found me from Etsy posting the listing on through google ads. When I realized who it was I overnighted them an example and had it in their hands the next day to make a good first impression. They vetted me over the phone but once they felt confident they made the payment and it was a sealed deal after that.

[@13hubi13]

@@ChadsCustomCreations very nice man, thanks for the fast reply ☺️ Im from austria and i live in a tourist area so we have many big hotels here. Im sure some of them would love those wooden qr codes for their rooms. I just dont know how i can get them as clients, maybe it would be smart to drive around from hotel to hotel and just ask them if they would be interested in those. I always think about that qr code when im in a hotel and have to type in the password of the wifi, its just annoying and with the qr code it would be way more comfortable.

[@bodhisattvamaitreya1228]

How much do you price you qr code for bars and restaurants

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

$10 I do a 25% off for orders over 100

[@davidspringer5082]

Did you buy it from his website directly or eBay?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

The owner sent this machine to me to review, purchases can be handled via email at [e-mail] in the states the cost for this model is about $5500.

[@terranceweis5231]

I'm very interested in this laser. Has it held up well since making this video?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

Yes it’s still my go to production laser it is super durable and dependable.

[@terranceweis5231]

@@ChadsCustomCreations is the controller panel ruida? I appreciate you getting back to me so fast.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@terranceweis5231 yes it is a ruida controller

[@samsanderson7159]

I have a question on the QR codes. When you were asked to make those, did the customer supply the file, or did you have to create the QR code for them?

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

I have both clients come my way I leave it up to them. Some send me their images others just send me the link. In lightburn there is already a QR code generator which makes it super quick and easy to make them.

[@samsanderson7159]

@@ChadsCustomCreations thanks. I didn't know lightburn had that feature. We bought our first laser in December. X-Tool D1pro 20w. It's not fast, but it's getting the job done for now. We haven't ventured into lightburn yet though. Still using X tool creative space. Hopefully this little laser gets busy enough to justify a larger machine at some point. Thanks for the info.

[@ChadsCustomCreations]

@@samsanderson7159 I think you’re doing it absolutely right start out with a diode if business gets busy enough to warrant the switch to a co2 do it when it gets there.

[@mbrang00]

@@samsanderson7159 it is well worth the $60 annual cost for LB

[@samsanderson7159]

@@mbrang00 I just wish I could run wireless. My laser and computer are in different rooms.