Why Will a Laser be the Most Popular Tool in My Makerspace?

Sponsored content

How do you build a successful makerspace? It is the tools in the space that bring in users, and the more users your space has the more successful your space can be. Makers are looking for access to machinery thatImage credit: Epilog Laser they can’t personally have, whether because of space or money, and the more versatile and unique the machinery, the better.

You want to use a laser in a makerspace? Add your name to the list! With long schedules of users waiting to get their time on a laser, we asked Ray Doeksen, PR manager, board member, designer and maker at Pumping Station: One in Chicago what makes the laser the most popular piece of equipment in their space.

“We have two lasers, including an Epilog Mini 24. More than any other machine, even 3D printers, laser cutters are often the most popular tool in a makerspace. They are fast, relatively easy to use, and can bring a project to life quickly,” Doeksen said.

Image credit: Epilog LaserOne of the most frequent questions a new makerspace faces is where to put their investment – toward CNC machinery, 3D printers or lasers. In an ideal world, you’d have an unlimited budget and could get every toy out there, but budgets definitely constrain those choices. While these spaces incorporate all kinds of hands-on, high-tech tools and resources for makers, we overwhelmingly hear that the laser is one of the most popular tools in the space. While all of these types of equipment complement each other very well, there are few reasons a laser cutter may be more highly sought after.

Speed

Laser cutters are fast. Like, incredibly fast. In fact, depending on the size of the project, you can cut a prototype with the laser in a matter of minutes. Add an engraving to your project in only a few minutes more.

Ease of Use

Training on the laser tends to be very quick because it’s just like printing to paper. You can use most Image credit: Epilog Lasergraphic design programs to set up your artwork and send it to the laser. Training is either conducted by more experienced users or through a class that users attend before they are deemed qualified to operate the laser.

Material Versatility

The laser works with a variety of materials – wood, acrylic, fabric, cork, rubber, leather and much more. Users can engrave and cut scrap materials, already-assembled products or even inexpensive corrugated cardboard. 3D printers primarily work with plastics. While 3D filament is generally affordable, if you get into specialty filaments the price tag can increase.

Recruitment

Image credit: Epilog LaserIf you’re a makerspace looking to increase membership, the laser is the way to go. If you have jobs and projects prepared, all you need to do is insert your material and press the go button. Potential members will be blown away by how precise and quick the laser is.

What can a laser cutter do for your current or soon-to-be makerspace? Contact Epilog today to find out – we’ll set you up with a hands-on demo so you can see in person what an incredible addition an Epilog machine will be to your organization.