Top 7 Laser Engraving Business Ideas

blue laser engraved dog tag

I've always been a bit of a maker and tinkerer. From tinkering with electronics in high school to building 18650 battery packs in my free time, I love the process of taking raw materials and transforming them into something beautiful and useful.

So, when I discovered the world of laser engraving, it was like a whole new creative door was open to me.

The possibilities felt endless! But with a brand new laser engraver in my apartment, I asked the question every newbie does "now what?". Sure, I could create a whole bunch of personalized cutting boards (I actually did that) and phone cases (haven't done this yet) for all my friends and family, but I craved a way to turn this passion into a business.

After doing a lot of research and brainstorming countless ideas, I came up with a list of laser engraving business ideas that can give you the freedom of being your own boss.

Here are my top eight picks to get your laser-fueled business off the ground. Number 1 might not be a popular idea but just hear me out.

1. Make Social Media Content

As I said earlier, most hobbyist won't agree with my top pick. But I do think that this is a lucrative business idea. This idea however takes time to get going. You will have to put in the effort knowing that the reward might take months to come in. But once you have an audience, you will be even more motivated to create content. I am sure you have noticed all the influencers online lately. Most of the markets that they target are saturated. But the laser engraving market is not and has a lot more room for growth, I have a Youtube Channel that I am working on and will be trying to publish as much content as I can with my machine.

2. Sell Niche Market Items

Don't be afraid to get specific! Love dogs? Design custom dog tags like the one You see in my main photo or engraved treat jars. Love fantasy novels? Create intricate bookmarks or phone cases featuring iconic symbols from your favorite series or book. I have been laser engraving Syfy type canvases and they sell really easy. This allows you to cater to a passionate niche that can lead to a loyal customer base.

3. Tech Trinkets

Who doesn't like a personalized Laser engraved tech accessory? Think engraved phone stands, wireless chargers, or even custom power banks. I build powerbanks for friends and family and will be adding a special engraving to each moving forward. The possibilities are endless as long as you have the right knowhow and right machine to complete each job. I have a diode laser which kind of limits the types of jobs I can complete but I still have a wide variety of options.

4. Engraved Awards & Recognition

Businesses and organizations will always be in the need for one of a kind awards. These can be in the form of trophies or plaques. With your laser engraving business, you will; be able to turn blank trophies or plaques into personalized awards.

You can give this one a try by going to your local businesses and offering a free sample for the manager or someone in charge to look at.

5. Engraved Signage

From small business signs to personalized nameplates, laser engraving offers a way to create professional-looking signage that's both durable and affordable.

If you're thinking about getting a laser engraver to do signage, please keep in mind that you will more than likely need a machine that can engrave on large areas. Most machines on the market are not capable of creating large engravings such as signage. One machine that is able to handle things like signs is the xTool S1: Enclosed Diode Laser Cutter.

6. Engraved Invitations & Stationery

If you are the type of person who likes to make others have a special day, you might be best suited for creating invitations and stationery items. This means you can be the go to person for everything in this field. It can be very rewarding money-wise and also rewarding to know you will be making others have a great day.

7. Laser-Cut Puzzles & Games

This is a fantastic option for those who want to combine laser engraving with cutting capabilities. Some laser engravers are also able to cut different types of materials. One of the easiest materials to cut is wood. But this is usually easier with higher powered machines like the 20 Watt Longer Ray 5 I currently own.

You can create beautiful custom puzzles or even intricate board games with laser-cut pieces.

Remember, this is just the tip of the iceberg. The beauty of laser engraving is its versatility. You have many options or routes to take. With a little creativity and some research into your target market, you can turn your laser engraver into a thriving business.

So, fire up that machine, unleash your inner artist, and get ready to make your mark on the world (or at least, on some really cool engraved products)!

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