A laser engraver and cutter uses a laser beam to cut or engrave by vaporizing material at the appropriate temperature. In other words, it carves away parts of the material at just the right depth to match your design. In some ways, it is the inverse of a 3D printer, which builds new objects by adding material.

Depending on the material and the design you send to the machine, the laser cutter can cut all the way through or just deep enough to create a picture, pattern or saying. Many laser engraving machines will work with leather, acrylic, wood, bamboo and even stainless steel, and you can find the results everywhere: on electronics, souvenirs and goods at the Renaissance Faire, a local shop or on Etsy.

Whether you like crafting for fun or you make unique items—like specialized coasters, leather goods and unique invitations—for order, you can expand your design possibilities with a laser engraver. If you love crafting at home with your kids, you might also enjoy finding out what you can do with a laser cutter.

When you have selected the best laser engraver for your needs, you can design or personalize any number of items. Add initials or a pretty emblem to your leather shoulder bag, create stylish invitations for your next event on postal-friendly wooden sheets or make a welcome sign for a friend’s front door.

When using your new laser engraving machine, allow time for practice and for watching tutorials. Your engraver may come with its own tutorials to help you. You will also need to pair your device with the right design software, which you will use to create the images you want engraved.

If incorporating the laser engraver into a crafting center for hobbies or small business uses, you may want complementary crafting machines, like a heat press for adding designs to fabric or a die-cutting machine for crafting unique packaging and other goods. Make sure you also have the crafting accessories you need.