Build idea
Laser-engraved wood bookmarks
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Thin walnut and maple bookmarks with one laser-engraved holiday motif and a twine loop, a quick stocking stuffer for readers. Run the grain the long way so the strip stays stiff, and engrave before you cut the outlines free. Several fit on one sheet, so a small batch takes about one laser session.
- Rough size
- About 6 x 2 x 1/8 in
- Wood
- 1/8 in thin solid walnut or maple, grain running the long way, Walnut-veneer plywood also works
Laser: never leave it running, keep an extinguisher in reach, and with an open-frame laser everyone in the room wears eyewear rated for its wavelength. See laser and CNC shop safety.
Tools you might use
- Laser
- Sanding
- Diode or CO2 laser with air assist
- Laser software that imports SVG files
- Exhaust fan or fume extractor
- Fire extinguisher or fire blanket
- Laser safety glasses for your laser's wavelength
- Calipers
- Sanding block with 220-grit paper
- Wipe-on oil or clear finish
- Natural twine for the loop
Right tool for the job: Do you need air assist for laser engraving? · What should you put under a laser engraver? · What free software can you use with a laser engraver? · How should you deal with smoke from a laser engraver? · Diode or CO2 laser for wood: which kind should you get?