Diode laser materials

Some basic information on the type of materials for diode lasers and their application. I have a shopping list on Amazon that has lots of blanks that I use regularly here at the Shack.
Laser blank shopping list- www.amazon.com...
For templates that I have made, check out my Etsy shop. I build files for projects and tools for laser engravers as well as CNC project files.
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The links below are affiliate links that will direct you to the product in this video. If you use this link for a purchase, I will receive a commission from the purchase. I remain unbiased and honest in my assessment as always.
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[@patrickbink4617]

Very helpful. Not only what materials my blue diode laser can effectively work on but alo some product inspiration. I always get something out of your videos. Thanks!

[@TheClackShack]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@SandyBoone]

Just getting started with laser engraving and just needed a tutorial like this that tells me what works better than others; or what to have to deal with

[@TheClackShack]

Glad it helps..

[@pjmadsen9215]

😅thank you for sharing. You are so positive and fun to listen to. Your time is so appreciated!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks.. glad you like it

[@cbaxterbassangler4052]

Thanks for the video!! I had a whole stack of pre finished plywood from the cabinet shop that I was scared to use. 10 min after watching video it's cutting like butter! Appreciate what you do Dave!!

[@TheClackShack]

Cool, have fun

[@Midwestcarver]

Probably one of the better material kids, I've seen!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks..

[@PattyRichardson-u6f]

Great video and very thorough....😊

[@TheClackShack]

Glad you liked it.

[@sheldonotto6130]

Thanks for taking the time to do the materials video. Very helpful

[@TheClackShack]

My pleasure!

[@drawwithclawsarturoa.6772]

You're so right I'm new at this laser stuff and testing is the best way to know how materials works. I like your videos and you're honesty I have make so many mistakes has well and let just said there's a lot things that can go wrong specially trying new materials or products. Thankyou for your words help me to realized I'm not alone !!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, I am glad it helps.

[@ToOldToDoThis]

Another very valuable n depth video. Thanks for explaining all the different materials as well as the links to source them. It helps all of us beginners as we go down “ the rabbit hole “ as well.

[@TheClackShack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@cassandraknight6485]

Great info! I use the WeCreat. I have used MakerFlo mugs. Handles are sold separately, but the lid is double threaded, so it makes it easier to put the design on because user can just thread the lid accordingly. Good prices, too.

[@TheClackShack]

Cool

[@JaniLewisPaperCompulsions]

Thank you, thank you thank you. Very helpful information. I have been afraid to test certain materials because I don't want to start a fire or breathe something toxic. Lol

[@TheClackShack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@nathanwolf5547]

It would be good to know about more IR materials. Thanks, Dave. Another useful video.

[@TheClackShack]

I will keep it in mind

[@MariaAguilar-vs9fb]

Really enjoyed this type of video. I wish I had that finished plywood supplier in my area.

[@TheClackShack]

You may want to ask around. They may have to order it

[@BruceBrandt59]

A lot of good info. Thanks

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks…

[@larrystaas1940]

Concerning MDF, if you can locate some double refined MDF grab it as it cuts like butter. I use the 5.7mm all the time cutting at one pass.

[@TheClackShack]

I must not have found any yet…. Lol

[@krbrown51]

This video has been a huge help. I would also like to see a materials video specifically for IR such as xTool F1...low power IR.

[@TheClackShack]

Will see, maybe I can

[@allsecured]

Thank you sir! Exceptional video as usual !!!

[@TheClackShack]

Very welcome

[@tna2me197]

When you mention going to shows and events. I would love to hear more about that. What kind of events? (Home shows, flea markets, trade shows?). How you set up, market, present. Stuff like that.

[@TheClackShack]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZLGeKZ8aMt6ftk

[@RaySchreckengostEtching]

As an fyi you can make a 1:1 solution of 200 proof denatured alcohol and black tempera acrylic paint to coat clear acrylic. You wont be able to cut it but you can make edge lit lights.

[@TheClackShack]

I just use the CO2, I just make a big mess with tempera paint, I have tried it.

[@OldGuyDesigns]

Thanks Clack, good video.

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks for watching

[@garylinn7747]

Think you may have addressed this some time ago, but, forgot what kind of "foam" material you can cut without bad fumes. Primarily would be used to make custom inserts for tools to protect them from banging around. Thanks, Gary Linn

[@TheClackShack]

I don’t use much foam material but Steve has experience with it. @Vintauris

[@nipajhaveri434]

Thanks, Clack.

[@TheClackShack]

Very welcome

[@warrenking970]

Great video great information, thanks!

[@TheClackShack]

Glad it was helpful!

[@loriinhouston3787]

Really appreciate the WONDERFUL video. Learning A LOT! Just getting into hobby diode lasering (Atomstack A70 Pro), having previously worked with a K40 CO2 laser. Was told that I might be able to attain a greater intricacy in engraving (think delicate paper doilies for a table in a diorama, or miniature flowers/leaves in small scales). Mostly, I will be using paper (different thickness and different material makeup), cardstock, mdf, laser board, and thin wood (usually 1/8" or less). My laser can be switched from 35W to 70W. I would like your opinion on the value of using my machine with the 35W setting as opposed to the 70W setting. I can't seem to find a lot of starter testing settings. Thanks for any help at all. Have a great day!

[@TheClackShack]

On paper, 35 watts will be more than enough power to cut really fast. I would do some testing to be sure. Keep in mind, paper will flame up if you go too slow.

[@naterife8871]

Thanks for sharing. Gave me some food for thought. Have a great day. God Bless.

[@TheClackShack]

Very welcome

[@jharper74]

Thank you for the share. learned a lot. yes, can you cover IR 2w + and CO2's.

[@TheClackShack]

Will do..

[@Lord_of_ChaoSan]

Sometimes on ply the glue will bubble out- usually easy to clean up though. Also, plywood will occasionally have hollow areas and you can't tell where knots are on the middle layers. I still almost exclusively use Basswood/Sandeply (HD ply) because it's easy to get and cheaper but I do really want to find a source of hardwood. I do have a bunch of other materials, I like to use the cheap stuff to prototype then use the good stuff for final projects- ya the different wood requires different settings but that's why you have a material test swatch handy- makes it pretty easy to get things right the first time if you know the actual design itself is good, it gets easier to hit things right the first time the more you practice! I'm very limited in my funds and have about 3k invested into my setup/materials over the last Year- much of my setup I got free though, ex: my enclosures are cardboard/hot glue/duck tape, which I thought I'd rebuild by now but they work so good and are so easy to modify that I haven't seen the need for a more permanent solution. I have a 20 watt with a 380x380 cut area and a 10 watt with a 900x900 area (and a bunch of other custom upgrades) thought they'll both be identical soon. Both are Sculpfun S30 Pros, I'm keeping the same infrastructure for my diodes so I can swap parts if I need to and extra parts work for both. My 25 Years of remodeling + 15 of Game Dev experience have made all of this extremely easy to figure out and build a business of quickly. I've only been lasering for a Year but that remodel experience and familiarity with shop tools, plus the woodworking I've done coupled with familiarity with a bunch of different game related software have made it pretty easy to progress quickly, that software experience made learning Lightburn incredibly easy. I'm still learning every Day though! I just opened a Shop, though while I'm polishing it up I'm not advertising anything yet, but it works. Next is Etsy/Shopify and maybe some other places too- gotta see how things go! This was a long comment. This is a really great video- got it saved and will be referencing it. This is especially good for new folks trying to find the right Wood to burn. So far my favorite Wood to work with is Cherry, but it's a bit expensive. Anyway, sorry for the long rant and thanks for the vid :D

[@TheClackShack]

Sounds like you have a good system going. Cherry is a good wood. You should try Maple if you like cherry..

[@timmothyhorne6467]

It was helpful thank you

[@TheClackShack]

Very welcome

[@kimgorshe6184]

He Clack, how about have you talk about edging tumblers and what about edging your logo and T-shirts? Is that possible things like that? I think people wanna know more about? I’m just asking. Y’all have a great day. 😊 thank you for all the information you provide.

[@TheClackShack]

I have played around with engraving clothes. I may

[@DavenportDecals]

Thank you!

[@TheClackShack]

You're welcome!

[@scottsparrow9740]

Thanks for the video. Since jumping in the rabbit hole a year ago, I still have to test leather and acrylic. Can you do a video on adhesives and how to decide which one to choose..

[@TheClackShack]

I will see.. I got a few others in the works currently. Thanks

[@juliecampion6487]

Is there any chance to get a video on the pumpkin? It is adorable.

[@TheClackShack]

Maybe

[@jpierogi]

Thank you for the excellent information that you have provided. I am just starting out and the video on the S1 is fantastic! I do have a couple questions for you. How often do you disassemble the laser to clean it? And... do you have a preferred wax that you use for waxing gears? It looks like you need something pretty soft but not liquid. I look forward to more of your videos!!

[@TheClackShack]

I clean it periodically, when needed. Not sure what you mean by waxing gears. I use machine oil in the critical places.

[@jpierogi]

@@TheClackShack Sorry I wasn't exactly clear. I was referring to wooden gears that are cut out for an assembly. They recommend waxing the gears to make them move better.

[@TheClackShack]

@@jpierogi I haven’t cut any gears. I would think candle wax would work though

[@alishalittle458]

Hi, Thank you for the video. Was wondering if it would be possible to do a video on how you engrave mirrors, clear acrylic and glass cups, please.

[@TheClackShack]

I have videos already on most of those materials.

[@alanhall3970]

Have noticed with leatherette key fobs white required a different setting, others seem to be fairly consistent.

[@TheClackShack]

White reflects more light, it will require a bump in power or reduction in speed

[@williamwright5891]

My best wood “plywood wood “ to use on my diode lasers is maple.

[@TheClackShack]

Maple is a good wood, especially for staining.

[@edumurphy3161]

I would like to see a video showing the install and set up of a 10w diode laser on the Genmitsu 4040pro

[@TheClackShack]

I don’t have the laser module. Maybe one day..

[@scottstephenson7996]

Great video! I would to see the same type video featuring the Falcon2 Pro 40W machine.

[@TheClackShack]

It is a blue laser, this applies to it also.

[@johnnyking3894]

I cut green and red with a twotrees 5.5 on the acrylic

[@TheClackShack]

Nice

[@PamEdelman]

Can you put masking tape on the translucent acrylic to get it to cut out any color of acrylic

[@TheClackShack]

No, it will make a melted mess

[@robbybishop2020]

Great info! Just invested in a Co2. Would love to know more info about materials. Thanks

[@TheClackShack]

The great addition with a CO2 is clear stuff and acrylics are easy to cut

[@DaveWrightKB9MNM]

Been having problems with trying to find something that my 5w laser can cut. It went through some basswood ok, but the rest of the pack was really warped so I couldnt use it successfully. The 1/4" Baltic Birch plywood from HD is even worse. I dont want to throw in the towel as of yet so I am still looking for good stuff to use.

[@TheClackShack]

1/8 inch material is what I would recommend.

[@curtisaitken7027]

Best option for me is two machines. What is the best for engraving and what is the best +20 machine for 1/4 template making?

[@TheClackShack]

Machines are task specific in my opinion. They all excel at different tasks..

[@deanpratley125]

Thanks so much for all the pointers. I just got my xtool S1 and I have already got some orders for charcuterie boards. Bamboo and a darker wood called Acacla. When and if you do logo’s do you make the background transparent e.g. PNG file? BTW love your channel and your accent.

[@TheClackShack]

Yes, anything that doesn't need to be burned, I set to transparent.

[@quickfixstat]

Not sure what wood was the finished wood you used in the beginning? Great tips on the MDF, gonna try it soon!

[@TheClackShack]

I got it from Rugby here locally.

[@quickfixstat]

@@TheClackShack Doh im in US, was trying to get some of that wood to test lol.

[@franklyre]

Thank you for the great information….. what machine do you take to shows with you to etch the box of materials you shared?

[@TheClackShack]

Currently the A24 pro and the F1 are my event machines

[@judybellwilburn984]

Have you been able to take etchinng, using briliance spray, off of stainless steel, as a knife blade? Thank you all your videos!!

[@TheClackShack]

Haven’t tried taking it off, I have put it on

[@wolfpack72]

How do you have your computer hooked up to all your different laser devices to where you can run them all at the same time? Thank you for your videos

[@TheClackShack]

USB 3 hubs and USB cables.

[@astrophysicistguy]

Question about cutting and engraving acrylics a 40w diode laser like the Xtool S1. Can you take a piece of white acrylic, paint it black with several coats of Rustoleum 2X and then engrave lettering on it and cut out a simple geometric shape? I'm looking to recreate the instrument panel on a fighter jet like an F-15 which is black anodized aluminum with white lettering around the dials, switches and knobs. The other question is it possible to cut 2mm white translucent acrylic (no engraving required). The reason for that is these panels are backlit with green LEDs and the translucent acrylic acts as a light diffuser so you don't see hot spots in the panel lettering from the led

[@TheClackShack]

If you are wanting to cut acrylic of any any color other than black, you will need a CO2 or a CNC. White just melts and doesn’t cut on blue diodes

[@astrophysicistguy]

@ that's what I've always heard but I watched as she tested different acrylic colors and she cut out a perfect heart in white. The blues failed like always but not the white so not sure what she was doing ...

[@astrophysicistguy]

The video was titled "cutting white acrylic with a diode laser ..." if you want to check it out

[@TheClackShack]

@@astrophysicistguy I don’t care to. I have tried and it may separate the pieces, it is not what a cut should look like. A diode just isn’t the right tool for acrylic

[@torowazup1]

👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼😎

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks

[@xdeslitx]

What about foam for gun cases?

[@TheClackShack]

I haven't done any. Be careful with foam materials

[@ljcardea4]

Where do you get you prefinished plywood

[@TheClackShack]

Lots of places sell it but I got mine from Rugby.

[@curtparkins1581]

Source for the pre-finished ply?

[@TheClackShack]

I got mine at Rugby Materials, it is a local shop. There are online places to get it also.

[@jimbowen3076]

Ever try Cu on a diode laser?

[@RaySchreckengostEtching]

can only etch and that is with laser marking spray. Better off with an ir and even that isnt great. Fiber and c02 is fantastic though.

[@TheClackShack]

Not on a diode. I have cut circuit boards on my fiber

[@jimbowen3076]

Yeah was just seeing if etching was possible, not planning on cutting. Thanks!

[@TheClackShack]

@@jimbowen3076 I have seen it done.

[@danielprovenzano163]

Great video very informative, Thanks!

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks..

[@TheClackShack]

Thanks, glad it helps

[@billjones7744]

Thank you!

[@TheClackShack]

You're welcome!