LONGER User Story: From YouTube Inspiration to Coaster Crafting: Patrick’s Journey with the Ray5 10W

LONGER User Story | From YouTube Inspiration to Coaster Crafting: Patrick’s Journey with the Ray5 10W

ABSTRACT
Sometimes, all it takes is one video to open a new door. For Patrick Broeker, a casual scroll through YouTube turned into an unexpected entry point into the world of laser engraving. What began as simple curiosity has since grown into a rewarding creative outlet — one where precision, experimentation, and personal expression all come together, powered by the Ray5 10W.

A Spark from the Screen
Patrick Broeker's story begins like many in today’s maker community: watching a video online. One evening, a demo featuring laser engraving appeared in his YouTube recommendations. With no background in laser crafting, he clicked out of curiosity — and found himself captivated by the precision, possibilities, and artistic potential of the technology.

 

At the time, Patrick had been using an entry-level Ortur machine, which had served him well for learning the basics. But after seeing what others were creating with more powerful lasers, he began to wonder what more he could do. That curiosity led him to upgrade to the Longer Ray5 10W — a step up in capability and reliability.

 

“I just wanted to see what else was possible,” Patrick explains. “The Ray5 gave me that next step I was looking for.”


Since making the switch, Patrick has steadily built a creative workflow around his Ray5 10W. His main focus? Handmade wall hangings and custom slate coasters — unique pieces that combine function and design. Whether he’s crafting gifts for friends or adding personality to his own space, Patrick enjoys the ability to turn digital designs into tangible, lasting items.

 

He primarily works with wood and slate, two materials that offer both versatility and aesthetic appeal. Over time, he’s developed an eye for which patterns and engravings work best with different textures and surfaces.

 

“It’s not just about pressing start,” he says. “You learn to see how the material behaves — what burns too fast, what looks best etched lightly. That’s part of the fun.”

What sets Patrick apart isn’t just the quality of his work — it’s his mindset. He sees every engraving as a learning opportunity and welcomes mistakes as part of the process. Through trial and error, he’s refined his approach and continues to push his creative boundaries.

 

Patrick is also active in online forums and creator groups, where he shares photos of his finished pieces and connects with other Longer users. The community, he says, is one of the unexpected joys of getting into laser engraving.

 

“You see what others are doing, you share tips, and you feel encouraged to keep going. It’s not competitive — it’s collaborative.”

 

Advice for Beginners: Don’t Wait to Start
Looking back, Patrick is grateful he took the leap. What started with a simple video has grown into a regular creative practice — one that brings both personal satisfaction and a growing sense of craftsmanship.

 

“Just jump in,” he advises. “Don’t worry about being perfect. Find a machine that gives you room to grow — like the Ray5 — and begin with something that excites you. You’ll figure the rest out as you go.”

Patrick’s journey is a quiet but powerful reminder that creativity often starts with a single moment of inspiration. With the right tools and an open mind, that moment can grow into something meaningful — even life-changing.

 

At LONGER, we’re proud that the Ray5 10W has played a part in helping Patrick — and thousands of other makers like him — explore their creative potential. His story reinforces our belief that everyone has the ability to make something truly personal, and that every maker’s path is worth sharing. Got a story of your own? We’d love to hear it.

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