Tips and tricks for laser processing of wood

When laser cutting, particularly thin wooden boards often warp, leading to inaccurate cuts and damaged projects. The cause is usually fluctuations in humidity and temperature, which cause the wood to deform. To prevent warping, wood should be stored properly upon receipt: flat, dry, and on a level surface with spacers for air circulation. A constant humidity of 40–60% is ideal, and the wood should acclimate for several days before processing. Warped boards can be straightened by weighting them down. When laser cutting, it helps to additionally fix the wood with magnets or clamps to prevent warping from the laser heat. Furthermore, a slower cutting speed and dividing the cut into several thin passes reduce heat exposure. This ensures a precise, clean cut without warping.

Those who start laser cutting wood often face unexpected problems: sooty edges, messy engravings, or warped workpieces are not uncommon. Many of these errors can be easily avoided. In our practical article, we show you what really matters – from the correct focus setting to the choice of suitable wood to optimal ventilation. Whether beginner or advanced: with these tips, your next laser project will definitely be cleaner and more professional.

Wood scraps generated during production, in workshops, or schools are often considered waste but offer numerous opportunities for sustainable reuse. Small pieces of wood are well suited for making keychains, magnets, or wooden jewelry, which can be individually designed and used as gifts or items for sale. Additionally, schools and MakerSpaces appreciate wood scraps to use them for creative projects and educational purposes. Joining various wood scraps into patchwork wood panels also creates unique materials for further creative work. Thus, wood scraps actively contribute to resource conservation, sustainability, and community promotion through creative use.

Precious Plywood is an ideal material for handcrafted jewelry – whether earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or foot jewelry. It is stable, yet pleasantly light and can be precisely processed with the laser. Due to its fine structure, it is particularly suitable for delicate designs with high wearing comfort.

The size and shape of the jewelry pieces is a matter of taste – what matters is that they appear harmonious and are comfortable to wear. Rounded edges and good weight distribution further increase comfort. A finish with natural oils or waxes protects the wood, highlights the grain, and makes the jewelry durable.

Not all wood is the same – especially when laser cutting, the choice of material makes the difference. In this article, you will learn what really matters for good laser wood: from uniform structure to high-quality gluing to pollutant-free processing. For clean cuts, precise engravings, and thoroughly successful projects.

Whether delicate engraving or precise cutting – the choice of the right wood is crucial for a successful laser project. In this guide, you will learn which types of wood are particularly suitable for which applications. From Poplar to Beech to noble veneers: discover the differences and find the ideal material for your next creative project!

When laser engraving photos on wood, a laser permanently and in detail burns the image into the surface. For this, the photo is first converted into a high-contrast black-and-white image and processed with a special raster method (dithering).

Light, finely grained woods such as Sycamore, Birch, or Beech are best suited. After engraving, residues can be removed and the wood refined with oil or varnish.

The result is personal, durable unique pieces – ideal as a gift or keepsake.