Sweet man! I own a holster company here in town and I’m looking at adding a laser to the stuff we do. The stuff we’d be doing it pretty small. I also have a Shapeoko 3 XXL. It would be cool to chat about DIY stuff.
Great video, just one small nit: the wattage comparison between a glass tube and an RF tube (which Epilog uses) can't be made easily. For example, RF at 40w can cut thicker materials than a 40w glass/DC tube.
Just found you on Instagram. Really love your pictures and videos. I use a router cnc machine, but looking into getting a laser too. Diffidently a subscriber and fan.
@@MakerExperiment I mostly do car audio stuff for a friend shop. I have done a few signs and names, but watching your one video on making that sign has helped me out with new ideas for some logos for my friend. Thanks for sharing, it always helps people like me.
I’d have to look and see if it says anywhere. All of the print driver settings are in percentages from 0 to 100. There isn’t a per inch or anything setting.
@@MakerExperiment Yeah, finding the actual speed has been tricky - they don't display this anywhere and only in %, but I'd like to know how fast 100% actually is! Thanks anyway :)
Thank you for all the info! I am new to the laser world, interested in purchasing an engraver/curing machine, but I am so overwhelmed right now with all the options. Was thinking about Glowforge, but after all the research I’m not sure this would be the best way to go. What are your thoughts?
Cheryl Minaya a lot of it depends on your budget. The Glowforge has been great for people but you cannot do mugs. There are lower cost options but from a technical support standpoint and machine build, I’d recommend the Epilog Zing 24 as a starter machine because it allows mugs, had a better laser tube and has great support. If you want a contact at epilog, feel free to contact me and I’ll get you in touch with them. If you want a lower cost option, I know a few people with Boss and Thunder laser that like their machines. I can’t speak to their customer support or machine reliability though.
Check it first so $2.50 is actually on the high side. What I typically do is have a set-up fee, the machine running cost, and then I’ll add $1.50-$2 per minute for machine time. Occasionally, I wave the set-up fee for returning clients or things that are simple. Designing in software would be an additional fee.
Thank you so much for this video! I'm a beginner and I've been trying to do research and ask questions, but everyone's so secretive, so I really appreciate this video! I'm interested in with primarily wood, acrylic, and foam to create name signs. I'm a balloon artist and this would be a small addition. What do you recommend for a beginner and light production? Thanks!
Shade' Owolabi a lot of it depends on what size you want to make. You may be better off with a CNC if you’re getting started with a wide range of materials and thicknesses.
@@MakerExperiment that's what I'm thinking. I was thinking about the epilog zing24 because its affordable, but I would hate to invest in that and find that most of the request are for something larger. I'm torn between an epilog, universal, and full spectrum.
You know you named US manufactures of lasers except one, Xenetech. They are family owned and made in Baton Rouge La. Their machines are faster than all the ones you named.Their machines also have I think 3 different patents. If speed is what your looking for. They also have their own software which is very easy to use. The laser also comes with a print driver that you can use with Corel Draw or AI. Their largest table is 24x36 speeds up to 150 inches per min. 100w power. It also has pass thru abilities for larger projects.Besides all that I've had several Xenetech lasers for the last 10 years. Their customer service is the best! But all this is a mute point now, but maybe in the future you may want to contact them should you decide to look for something better. I've provided a link www.xenetech.com/2436_overview.asp best of luck to you.
Capt. Nothing I’ve actually never heard of Xenetech. I researched for months using google to search for machines in the US, went to multiple trade shows, and never saw them. I’ll have to read up on them.
hi, thanks so much for the video. Very helpful. Im looking at purchasing a machine to etch sterling metal , like words on rings? It wouldnt need a very big area as i work with small pieces of metal. Do you have any suggestions? Ive looked at glowforge and cricut but think i may need a stronger machine..i could be wrong, so thought you could help?
The cricut wouldn’t help as that uses a drag knife style setup and not a laser. If you’re primarily working with metal, you may want to consider a fiber laser. A CO2 laser like the glowforge or the ones I use, can do it with a special spray but I think fiber would be a better option if you’re doing all metal work.
Looking to just make laser engraved clothing labels, what would you recommend? It will be on faux suede and small pieces of wood (button size), thanks for help.
Chris you can get by with a small machine. It all depends on your budget and how much you want to be hands on with maintaining and fixing it. Look at entry level machines like the Glowforge, boss, or thunder laser. You can also look at a step up from those which would be the Epilog Zing.
Hi I’m new in the laser world. Do you have any suggestions on a laser for glass such ass coffee mugs. Engraving words or more importantly pictures? Mug like shaped glass.
Musicalfreakzation my first suggestion is to look into the Epilog Zing 24. You want to make sure that any machine you use will work with a rotary attachment. This rules out machines like a glowforge. You can go to www.epiloglaser.com/makerexperiment to learn more about the epilog machines.
Thank you for sharing your buying experience. I am looking for a machine to cut, engrave and score 0.4mm - 0.8mm Gold, Silver and Brass name jewelry. I have finally decided on Chinese 50W Fiber Laser but am unable to trust 'Bogong Laser Company' paying $3500 , can you please suggest an US dealer for similar machine?
I don’t know of any dealers for that. I’m also not sure if that’s enough wattage to cut those metals. I’d do some more research into that first. I know a 50W epilog fiber says it won’t cut metal just engrave it.
Do you have any idea why Trotec is 10-15% more that epilogue and universal? Technology wise they seem about them same. Other then the Trotec name I don’t see what justifies the price. Does the you epilogue need an external exhaust and air system too? What do you to for filtering of the exhaust? What about the software? Do you Corel or Illustrator and “push” it to the laser or does epilogue have proprietary program? My wife and I have a small engraving company as side business engraving plastic labels for electrical equipment and Solar companies. We currently run a Chinese laser. It works, okay, but looking to upgrade to a bigger and faster machine within the next year. At peak times the Chinese one seems to struggle. The biggest issue is manipulating RD works to get the system to do what we need. It’s a big time sink with trial and error. I’ve struggle to chose between all three of the “big three”, but ultimately we can only afford used. Craigslist has me nervous because things like your experience, so direct from the manufacturer seems to be the best bet. I have thought about going to trophy shops and seeing if they would sale an only one. Did you contact epilogues corporate office or did you go through a local rep? Was your experience with epilogue good? Sorry to hit you with so many questions.
I have wondered the same thing about Trotec. They use a ceramic style tube and they have different designs that are supposed to keep the machine cleaner but I personally can't justify the cost difference. The Epilog does need an external exhaust and an air compressor for air assist. I don't filter the exhaust, I just blow it outside right now. I use Illustrator CC for the design. Epilog works with either a print driver or it's job manager. You can print directly from Illustrator to the laser, there is no secondary piece of software you have to use. I've found that chinese machines usually require more hands-on time and take longer to complete the machining. That's part of why I went with Epilog. I have a contact at Epilog who helped me purchase a pre-owned machine. If you are interested, send me your email and I will send you the information. I've had a great experience with Epilog and their customer service has been top notch.
Great video, excellent information. Just starting to do my research into the purchase of a laser engraving/cutting machine in the price range of $20k. Looking for a 100-watt industrial, production duty machine to be used for a garage-based small business. Mainly original art applications to be used on a wide variety of media, e.g., metal, plastics, wood, leather, glass, etc. High quality "Made in the USA" machine from a company with a strong service and support reputation. You mention several companies that you considered. Any further details (positive/negative) on the BossLaser offerings from your research or from other viewers. I believe American made out of Sanford Florida. Seems to have a wide-range of machines, capacities, accessories, price ranges, etc. Any info/experience with the BossLaser brand or other insight for a newbee would be appreciated.
I have heard both good and bad regarding Boss Lasers. My friend Chad over at @mancrafting on Instagram has two of them and loves them. I've had friends who had issues as well. I don't think they are fully manufactured in the U.S. I believe they do design and assembly in the U.S. I think some of their components are made overseas. If you go to their showroom, they will demo the machines for you. I would suggest reaching out to Chad and seeing if he has any advice.
Thanks for the prompt response and valuable info. I'll ping Chad over at Mancrafting for his take on BossLasers. BTW took a closer look at your Epilog machines. Very impressive! I'll be in contact with them as well. Thanks again...
@@harperfw you can buy even from china its all pending on your knowledge what you need to consider epilog sells only with RF tube thye cost more than glasstube but a glasstube very effective on acrylics with glasstube you can go average a few years then you can replace like 1000 for a 100-120 watt RF tube recharging with co2 cost itself 800 so just check around before really spend out money with bosslaser you can buy the ruida mixed laser what actually with oxigen assist cuts 1/8 stainless steel beyond acrylics and organic materials RF tube not sure will cut with airassist
Great info and I appreciate you sharing. I have talked to Epilogue a few times - yes, good people. By the way, I believe Trotec is manufactured in Austria, I believe? Maybe that explains the price, and I know they are more a "Cadillac" model for these machines. I am thinking about starting a "retail" type of business early 2020. Selling cutting boards, engraving mugs, glass, leather, etc., as well as metal, such as coins (wood/metal). It looks like you work more with larger orders, B to B type of thing, which I am also hoping to do. Do you think selling retail and B to B is a good business model? Having a small showroom? I know we do not have such business here in my area. I appreciate what you do. Off to watch more of your videos. Best of luck to you, and MUCH appreciated.
Aldo Redaelli Trotec is a good machine as well. It was just out of my budget. As far as the retail thing goes, I don’t know about having a physical retail space. I haven’t tried it. Most people I know just run e-commerce businesses and work out of a shop. You can certainly try and see how it goes but be careful not to have a bunch of overhead costs without orders to help support them.
@@MakerExperiment thanks so much. I am also concerned about inventory, among other issues. DO you actually have customers come to your shop? I assume is not at your house. I also thought about renting a small warehouse. So much to think about! Thanks so much.
That is awesome. I noticed you make some good size products too. It shows your experience for sure. Great approach. I will take all of this into consideration for sure. I am trying to get this with my son. Thanks for sharing.
Johnny Gladstone I’ve heard both good and bad experiences from people. I’m a firm believer in staying within your budget and getting the best that you can within your budget. If boss does that for you, I say try it. Also, look into Thunder laser. I’ve heard they’re pretty good too for the price point.
carla cannon this machine costs $25,000+ depending on the options. It’s in a completely different class than Glowforge. Epilog does make cheaper and smaller machines like the Zing and the Mini.
I've seen reviews on Glowforge ( I was looking at those myself) They are very very noisy so far Dremel has one that shows great promise to me and it's UL certified for close to the same price
@@MakerExperiment Thank you for the reply! Does a mini have auto focus or the camera option? I think you have to go to at least the Helix for that - right? A used one would be better for my budget!
Miss K the mini does not have the camera or at least didn’t when I had one. If you email me, I can get you in contact with an epilog rep about used machines.
Thank you. I need your advice. I want to ask. I need laser that can cut polycarbonate and metal in one machine 1. Our polycarbonate dimension 2440 x 1225 mm while still intact. In the process for a length of 2440mm, we can cut it into a 500mm size before being cut to size. So that it doesn't take too much space. 2. in metal working, we need a laser that can erase images on stamps and dies. so that we can use the dies and stamps again Is that possible ?
Danang Raharja any metal work is usually done with a fiber laser. If you engrave the full surface it can get rid of a stamp I would think. I don’t have enough experience with fiber specifically. As far as cutting polycarbonate on a laser, I’d avoid it. Because of the properties, it tends to create a film that can ruin your optics.
I’m interesting in buying my first laser, but my budget is only $2000.00. Should I look into those eBay Chinese units to start out with and which should I buy? Thanks!
I'm based in the UK and I've been looking at getting an epilogue laser but they are super expensive after you add on 20% vat (sales tax). I asked the rep whether they had used machines and he said they had ex display units only. Did you look into this option on your search?
MrDirkles I did not. I just asked about refurbished machines and the person I talked to said they had a customer who sold their machine back to them and that they resell it as a refurbished after they went through and put in a new tube, new lens and other stuff.
I am from India, purchased a Chinese 20W fiber laser From perfect laser , pathetic after sales service second machine I will buy a USA made or Japanese made or Last priority Taiwan.
@@laserlabindiapvtltd651 Thanks for your response, please mail your Bangalore representative contact details to goodwillc466@gmail.com Thanks and regards Goodwill creations Bangalore.
The epilog zing 24 is a good choice. It’ll be around that I believe. There’s also universal, thunder laser and boss laser. I’m not sure how much their machines are anymore but I know people who have each of those brands and like them. If you need a contact at Epilog, let me know.
David Lawrence it’s not easy getting comfortable enough to talk to a camera and as I do more videos, I’m sure I’ll improve. It’s easy to ramble when you’re nervous and not used to talking to a camera for the world to see.
Maker Experiment trust me I know... script it out, get someone to stand behind the camera so your not talking to yourself. Even if they don’t do anything but listen to you. But not trying to tell you how to do this. Here’s a video I produced for our program. And it’s not easy,I get it!
