User Story

Not every creative journey starts in a studio—some begin with whatever space is available. For Kristián, laser engraving began outdoors, using an old kitchen table as a workspace. What started as casual experimentation slowly developed into a strong interest in engraving and creative production. With the Longer Ray5 10W, Kristián built his foundational skills, learned through practice and online resources, and eventually converted an unused storage space near his home into his first small workshop. His experience reflects steady progress shaped by learning, patience, and an emphasis on quality.

Starting Small and Learning by Doing

Kristián’s first steps into laser engraving were practical and uncomplicated. Working outside his house with limited space and equipment, he focused on experimenting and understanding how the process worked. There was no clear plan at the beginning—only curiosity and the motivation to learn something new.

Over time, engraving became a regular part of his routine. After roughly six months, it was clear that this interest had grown beyond a simple pastime. To support that growth, Kristián decided to rebuild an old storage area near his home, turning it into a dedicated workshop where he could focus more seriously on his creative work.

Throughout this phase, the Longer Ray5 10W made it easier to move forward, offering a user-friendly starting point for learning engraving techniques.

Building Skills with Longer

As Kristián spent more time engraving, Longer became an important part of his learning process. The Ray5 10W helped him understand core engraving principles while allowing him to practice consistently. Access to guides and instructional videos online further supported his progress, making it easier to solve problems and improve results.

This combination of hands-on experience and available learning resources allowed Kristián to gradually refine his approach. His growing focus on clean results and careful execution shaped the work he now shares under GravArt, primarily through platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

Instead of pushing for fast results, Kristián chose to improve steadily, letting his skills develop through repetition and experience.

Progress Through Patience

Today, Kristián’s creative path reflects gradual, sustainable growth. With an approximate annual revenue of $3,000, his work continues to evolve at a pace guided by learning rather than speed.

His advice to newcomers reflects that same approach:

“Don’t be afraid to spend time learning laser engraving — it’s a broad field. Take your time and focus on the quality of your work.”

From working on an old kitchen table to creating in a personal workshop, Kristián’s story shows how commitment, time, and the right tools can turn initial curiosity into a meaningful and lasting creative practice.

Every creative journey begins somewhere—sometimes with nothing more than curiosity and a simple machine. For a maker from the United States, that first step into laser engraving quickly grew into a deeper passion. What started with a basic setup soon led to an upgrade to the Longer Ray5 20W, opening new possibilities for personalized and meaningful projects. From marina name plates to thoughtful gifts for friends, this journey shows how hands-on making can transform a simple interest into a rewarding creative pursuit.

From Dream to Reality: How a Laser Engraver Helped Me Start My Creative Business

The idea of owning a small business—one where I could create meaningful products that people truly want—has always been a dream of mine. Over the years, I explored different creative ideas. Some worked reasonably well, others didn’t, and a few simply required more time than I could give once I became a mom and began homeschooling my children.

Like many makers, my journey took a turning point online. I started following several crafters on Facebook who were using laser engraving machines to cut and create their own materials. Watching them turn raw materials into finished products was inspiring. I found myself researching different laser engravers, comparing machines, and imagining what I could create one day.

That dream became reality during Christmas 2024, when my husband surprised me with a Longer Ray5 10W laser engraver. I was beyond excited—but also a little intimidated. With his help, I got the machine set up and began experimenting with LightBurn software. I managed to cut a few projects over the next couple of months, but eventually the laser sat unused. The software learning curve felt overwhelming, and I wasn’t confident enough to keep going at the time.

Everything changed in the fall of 2025.

I remembered all the ornament design files I had purchased after getting my laser engraver. Around the same time, my family planned a volunteer trip to help victims affected by Hurricane Helene. I wanted to create something meaningful to give back—personal, thoughtful pieces that carried heart behind them.

So I dusted off the Ray5, committed myself to learning, and started watching tutorial videos step by step. I’m still learning every day, but the progress came faster than I expected. That season, I successfully held a Christmas ornament sale, opened my own Etsy shop, and even signed up to attend my first craft show this April.

At the moment, my setup is fairly simple. Along with my Ray5 laser engraver, I use a honeycomb bed and air assist. With the profits from my ornament sales, I invested in the XY extension kit. For Christmas this year, my husband surprised me again—this time with an air filtration system and a rotary attachment. We’ve already installed the filtration system, and he’s planning to build a full enclosure for me soon.

Looking back, I’m amazed at how far I’ve come. The projects I create now look polished and professional—something I never thought I’d say when I first powered on the machine. What started as curiosity has grown into genuine confidence.

This laser engraver has completely changed how I see my creative future. It’s honestly become a bit of an obsession—in the best way possible. Every morning, I wake up thinking the same thing:

“What can I cut or engrave today?”

I started my journey as a simple woodworking enthusiast. I loved the process of creating something beautiful from a plain piece of wood — but I also wanted more precision, speed, and creativity. Everything changed when I bought my first Longer Ray5 10W laser engraver.

My Journey from Woodworking Hobbyist to Laser Engraving Entrepreneur

From the moment I started using it, I was hooked. The Ray5 opened up a completely new world for me — cutting, engraving, and experimenting with new materials. What started as a weekend hobby quickly became a daily passion.

But as my projects grew, I realized I needed more power and efficiency. That’s when I upgraded to the Longer B1 40W, and honestly, it was a game-changer. The cutting speed and accuracy of the B1 were on a completely different level. It allowed me to handle bigger projects faster, which made my workflow more professional.

Soon, I added the IR 2W replacement laser head to my B1 so I could engrave on metal as well. With this upgrade, my creative limits expanded once again — from wood and acrylic to aluminum and stainless steel.

From a Small Studio to a Real Business

At that point, I knew this wasn’t just a hobby anymore. I founded my small business — Woodhobby Gunter Naudts.

I moved my setup from my woodworking studio to a spare room in my house. I built two custom laser enclosures with air extraction to keep the space clean and safe, installed racks for materials, and organized my tools efficiently.

I transformed my Facebook and Instagram into business profiles and launched my own website.  Even though I didn’t build a full webshop, it became a place for clients to discover my work and get in touch.

Key Takeaways:

• You need space for stock, work, and meeting customers — make your workspace look professional.

• Build a solid online presence. A clean website and polished social media profiles make a big difference.

• Use high-quality, realistic photos and error-free captions — professionalism builds trust.

Bringing My Lasers to Fairs and Events

One of my goals was to bring my passion directly to people — to engrave on site and share the excitement of laser crafting. My first fair was an important milestone.

I took my Longer B1 in its enclosure to the event. It worked great, but it took up too much space and wasn’t fast enough for live engraving. That experience made me realize I needed something smaller and faster.

That’s when I discovered the Longer Nano Pro 12W during its Kickstarter campaign. At the same time, another brand launched a dual (diode + fiber) laser, and I hesitated. But I decided to stay loyal to Longer because their support and product quality are top-tier.

For the same price as the competitor’s model, I bought the Nano Pro 12W plus a separate fiber laser from another brand (since Longer doesn’t make fiber lasers yet) — and added a portable air filter.

Key Takeaways:

• Don’t fall for fancy marketing — buy tools that do the job reliably.

• Focus on durability and functionality, not just looks.

• Be clear on your business goals before investing.

Engraving On-Site: Connecting with People

Now, when I go to fairs, I bring my Nano Pro 12W and fiber laser — both compact and fast enough for live engraving. Customers love watching something come to life on the table.

While waiting for visitors, I often engrave scrap materials just for fun. It attracts attention, sparks conversations, and leads to new customers. People love seeing creativity in action.

Key Takeaways:

• Playing is learning — experiment with your tools daily.

• Speed matters at fairs — nobody wants to wait 30 minutes for a keychain.

• Limit choices — show 10 fonts, not 100. Simplicity helps people decide faster.

• Talk to people. Every conversation can lead to future business.

Collaboration and Growth

I also collaborate with other local makers. For example, I create wooden bases for glass artists, and cake toppers for a local bakery. These partnerships help us both grow — their customers discover my work, and vice versa.

I’m currently reaching out to other local businesses such as flower shops, real estate agencies, and craft stores to expand my network.

Key Takeaways:

• Partner with complementary businesses — it’s a win-win.

• You can reach new customers without expensive advertising.

Building a Professional Workshop

Many first-time visitors are surprised when they find out my studio is inside a regular home. But once they walk into my dedicated laser room, they understand it’s a real workspace — with four lasers, racks of blank materials, and neat displays of finished products.

What I love most is when a customer walks in with an idea. We brainstorm together, adjust the design, and — if time allows — I engrave it while they wait. Watching their idea turn into reality is always a magical moment.

Key Takeaways:

• Keep your workspace clean and organized.

• Communicate openly — help clients visualize their ideas.

• Stay professional — people notice every detail when they watch you work.

Looking Ahead

For now, Woodhobby Gunter Naudts remains my side business, but my dream is to make it my main job someday. My goal is not to rush but to grow steadily, upgrade equipment when necessary, and most importantly, have fun while working.

Laser engraving gives me both creative freedom and technical satisfaction — a perfect blend of art and precision.

If you’re considering starting your own laser engraving journey, my advice is simple:
Start small, learn constantly, and grow with passion. And if you want reliability, Longer laser engravers are a great place to begin.

My journey into the world of laser engraving began about three years ago, when I started my first job at an institution managed by the local government. It was a special workplace that hired only disabled people like me. At first, I was simply helping a colleague handle sheets of plywood — his hands were too weak to position them correctly under the laser cutter.

1. A Humble Beginning

That machine was huge, an 80W CO₂ laser engraver, and I was fascinated by its precision and power. Over time, I learned more and more about how it worked. After a few months, I became the main operator in the company, managing the laser engraver on my own. It was an amazing feeling — I could finally show what I had learned and see tangible results every day.

Working under time pressure didn’t scare me. In fact, I loved it. We produced all kinds of products from plywood, such as phone drawers, boxes, and custom signs. Each project taught me something new, and I knew this wasn’t just a job — it was the start of something bigger.

2. A Leap Toward Independence

After two and a half years in that company, I felt it was time to change something in my life. I wanted freedom — to make my own decisions, manage my own time, and build something from scratch. The biggest motivator, of course, was also financial independence.

That’s when I decided to start my own small business. I invested my savings in my very first laser engraver — the LONGER Ray5 10W.

The day it arrived, I was full of excitement and nervousness. Setting it up, learning the software, experimenting with materials — everything felt new again. But soon after, my first few orders came in: engraved pictures, small decorative boxes, and a few custom gifts made from 3mm plywood.

When I earned my first money from those orders, I felt an incredible sense of pride. It wasn’t just about the income — it was proof that I could do this on my own. That moment gave me the motivation to keep improving, learning, and growing my business.

3. The Christmas Rush — and a New Challenge

By October 2024, I started preparing for the Christmas season — one of the busiest times for any maker. I designed new products such as wooden baubles, lanterns, and ornaments, all made from 3mm plywood. In early November, I received a few small orders for lanterns, and I used my 10W machine to produce them.

However, within just a week, the number of orders exploded. Suddenly, I was working 12–14 hours a day trying to keep up, and I realized that my 10W engraver alone wouldn’t be enough to meet the demand.

That’s when I made one of the best decisions in my business journey — I bought a LONGER Ray5 20W.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The stronger laser cut faster and more precisely, allowing me to handle twice the workload. My lanterns became my top-selling product, and by using both my 10W and 20W engravers together, I was able to complete all orders on time before Christmas.

When the last order shipped out, I finally had time to breathe — and count my earnings. The total profit for the season was about $500, a milestone that made all those sleepless nights worth it.

4. Reinventing and Upgrading

After the New Year, I decided to reinvest my earnings. I purchased an air assist system for my 20W Ray5, and it completely changed the game.

The cutting quality improved dramatically — cleaner edges, no burn marks, and much smoother results. Even better, the cutting time was nearly twice as fast. I realized that small upgrades can make a big difference in productivity and product quality.

5. Expanding Sales Channels

As my confidence grew, so did my customer base. Most of my sales came through my Facebook fan page and various maker groups. I also received direct messages from people who knew me personally and wanted custom pieces.

But I wanted to reach a larger audience, so I started planning to list my products on Allegro, one of the biggest online marketplaces in Poland. I believe this will help me expand faster, reach new customers, and generate more consistent income.

For now, I sell both offline and online, and every sale — no matter how small — reminds me why I started this journey in the first place.

6. Preparing for My First Exhibition

This year marks another exciting step — my first maker exhibition. I’m preparing new and unique items: bamboo pens, plywood eggs, and even engraved slate tiles.

Recently, I’ve been experimenting with glass engraving — it’s not perfect yet, but I’m learning and improving. My next goal is to master engraving on metal bottles and thermal mugs, as I believe expanding the range of materials will open new markets and opportunities.

Every experiment, even the failed ones, brings me closer to mastering the art of laser engraving.

7. Lessons Learned and Advice for Beginners

If I could give one piece of advice to anyone starting their journey in this amazing world of laser engraving, it would be this: Never give up.

When I started, I made countless mistakes — I burned through piles of plywood sheets because I used too much power or moved too slowly. But every mistake was a lesson.

One of the most useful tools I discovered is the Material Test feature in LightBurn software. It allows you to test different power and speed settings to find the perfect parameters for your material. You can also find ready-made material settings for free on the LONGER website, which is extremely helpful for beginners.

For me, engraving is no longer just a job — it’s a lifestyle. It’s about creativity, precision, and freedom. Watching an idea come to life through a beam of light still amazes me every single day.

8. Looking Ahead

Today, I continue to grow my small business with big dreams. My goal is to turn my workshop into a professional engraving studio, expanding both my skills and my product line.

From my first 10W engraver to managing multiple machines and preparing for exhibitions, every step has been a challenge — but also a reward.

If my story proves anything, it’s that with passion, persistence, and the right tools, anyone can turn their hobby into a thriving business.

And for me, that journey started with the LONGER Ray5 laser engraver.

For Leon Leskovar, creativity has always been more than a pastime—it’s a way to make people smile. What began as a simple love for crafting and personalized gifts gradually evolved into a meaningful small business, powered by passion, precision, and the right technology.

From Passion to Purpose

“Our journey began with a simple love for crafting and personalized gifts,” Leon shares. “What started as a hobby soon turned into a small business, fueled by positive feedback and growing demand.”

Leon and his team wanted to create items that hold emotion and meaning—wooden keychains, pet memorial plaques, and custom engraved gifts that tell a story. Instead of chasing mass production, they focused on quality, creativity, and attention to detail.

Why They Chose the LONGER B1 40W

When it came time to choose a laser engraver, Leon turned to LONGER B1 40W for its power, accuracy, and reliability.

“We chose Longer lasers for their precision and reliability, allowing us to create unique engraved items with confidence,” Leon explains.

With 40 watts of laser power, the B1 delivers the cutting strength needed for thick wood and durable materials—while maintaining the fine engraving detail that makes every piece unique. It’s the perfect balance for creators who value both performance and craftsmanship.

The Emotional Side of Laser Engraving

Among all the projects Leon has completed, one stands out vividly—a custom memorial plaque for a customer’s beloved pet.

“They sent us a blurry photo and a short message, hoping we could make something nice,” Leon recalls. “We spent hours adjusting the image, testing settings, and perfecting every line.”

The result was a touching, one-of-a-kind piece that captured the pet’s spirit perfectly. When the customer received it, they were moved to tears—and so was Leon’s team.

That experience showed them the deeper power of laser engraving: it’s not just about precision—it’s about preserving memories and creating something emotionally lasting.

A Little Humor Along the Way

Of course, not every engraving day is serious business. Leon laughs when recalling some fun experiments:

“We once accidentally engraved a mirror while testing power settings—thankfully it survived! And yes, we even tried lasering a banana just to see what would happen. Spoiler: it smelled weird, but it worked!”

These light-hearted moments remind Leon and his team that creativity is also about exploration and play—pushing boundaries just to see what’s possible.

Building a Brand Around Meaning

Today, Leon’s small business continues to grow steadily, creating personalized, meaningful gifts that connect with customers across different occasions—birthdays, weddings, memorials, and more.

Each product is designed, engraved, and finished with care. For Leon, the LONGER B1 40W isn’t just a machine—it’s a creative partner that empowers imagination and craftsmanship.

“We’re not aiming for mass production. Our focus is on quality, creativity, and making people smile through meaningful, handmade products.”

💡 Leon’s Takeaway for Aspiring Creators

“Find joy in the process. Every engraving tells a story—sometimes it’s a laugh, sometimes it’s a memory. But every project teaches you something new.”

A Spark of Creativity, A Legacy of Emotion

Leon’s journey with the LONGER B1 40W beautifully illustrates how technology and artistry can come together to create something truly personal.

From crafting keepsakes to preserving memories, his story is a powerful reminder that behind every engraved line lies a story worth telling.

📍 Featured Tools & Resources

• Laser Engraver Used: LONGER B1 40W

• Materials: Wood, Metal, Acrylic

• Business Name: Leskovar Design Studio (Independent Maker)

• Location: Croatia

For many creators, great things start with curiosity—and that’s exactly how Milos Dojcinovic, founder of MD Laser Works, began his journey. Living in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Milos didn’t plan to start a business at first. He simply wanted to create custom wooden gifts that carried personal meaning.

Turning Curiosity Into a Creative Business

“I wanted to offer something personal,” Milos shares. “Items you can’t just find in regular stores—custom keychains, wooden boxes, cutting boards, and souvenirs that hold memories.”

What started as a hobby soon transformed into a small but growing home-based business.

Choosing the Right Tool: LONGER Ray5 20W

After researching different laser engravers, Milos discovered the LONGER Ray5 20W, a powerful yet beginner-friendly laser engraver that perfectly matched his needs.

“Even without a background in this field, I was able to start from scratch. The Ray5 made it easy to learn, and Longer’s online community helped me grow even faster.”

With 20W of laser power, precise engraving accuracy, and intuitive software compatibility, the Ray5 20W allowed Milos to turn creative ideas into reality—from detailed engravings on wood and slate to custom-made décor and personalized gifts.

The machine became more than just a tool—it was the foundation for Milos’s creative independence.

Building MD Laser Works

Milos began creating small batches of custom pieces for friends and local customers. His designs quickly gained attention for their craftsmanship, personalization, and meaningful touch.

Today, MD Laser Works operates as a small home-based business serving the local community, with annual revenue between $3,000–$5,000 USD—and growing steadily.

Each order represents more than just a product—it’s a story, a moment, a memory brought to life through laser engraving art.

The Joy Behind the Craft

For Milos, success isn’t measured only by numbers. It’s about the freedom to create, the joy of learning, and the connection between maker and customer.

“The Ray5 gave me the confidence to explore, make mistakes, and improve. Every project teaches me something new.”

From his first wooden keychain to large custom cutting boards, each piece reflects his passion for craftsmanship and creativity.

💡 Milos’s Advice for New Laser Engraving Beginners

“Start simple and be patient. Don’t expect perfection from day one—laser engraving has a learning curve. Join user groups, explore different materials, and most importantly, understand your market. Creativity opens the door, but consistency is what keeps you moving forward.”

A Spark That Keeps Growing

Milos’s journey with the LONGER Ray5 20W proves that with the right tools, community, and determination, anyone can turn a spark of curiosity into a meaningful creative business.

From hobbyist to entrepreneur, his story is an inspiration to every maker who dreams of bringing ideas to life—one engraving at a time.

📍 Featured Tools & Resources

• Laser Engraver Used: LONGER Ray5 20W

• Software: LightBurn, LaserBurn

• Materials: Wood, Slate, Acrylic

• Business Name: MD Laser Works

• Location: Bosnia and Herzegovina

Jose Tomas Santos Alonso of PESCA CRUXEIRAS, S.L. began 3D printing as a hobbyist with no prior experience. With the LONGER LK5 Pro, he started small, learning through trial and error. Over time, he scaled up from 5 cm prints to towering 1.7-meter sculptures. His journey reflects passion-driven growth, where every project becomes a step forward. Supported by a reliable machine, Jose proves that with patience and persistence, even the biggest dreams can be built layer by layer.

French maker Olivier Choteau transformed his lamp design ideas into a thriving handcrafted brand using the LONGER B1 40W. With no prior laser experience, he learned through trial, community support, and consistent practice. The B1’s cutting power and large workspace allowed him to create high-quality, engraved wooden lamps and decor. From his garage, Olivier now fulfills paid orders and continues growing Grav’décobois — proof that creativity, precision tools, and dedication can spark real success.

Patrick Broeker’s maker journey began with a YouTube video and grew into a creative routine powered by the Ray5 10W. From custom slate coasters to wall art, Patrick uses laser engraving not just to craft beautiful items, but to explore, experiment, and connect with a wider community. His story is a celebration of curiosity, growth, and the joy of making.