Laser Engraver Blogs

Path optimization is essential in laser engraving and cutting for improving speed, precision, and machine longevity. This guide explains how to use LightBurn’s powerful optimization tools—including group, layer, and priority-based settings—to streamline workflows, reduce idle travel, and enhance output quality. Whether you're managing a simple project or a complex design, mastering these settings ensures maximum performance from your laser system.

The Longer Ray5 laser engraver now supports a powerful 30W laser module, expanding its capabilities for cutting and engraving a wider range of materials more efficiently. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for installing the 30W module, including hardware adjustments, cable connections, and firmware updates. With the upgrade complete, users can enjoy faster processing times and greater creative freedom for their laser projects. Be sure to refer to the included manual and this guide to ensure a smooth installation.

Grouping and ungrouping objects in LightBurn are essential techniques for managing laser engraving projects more efficiently. This guide walks you through how to group and ungroup elements using both mouse actions and keyboard shortcuts, and explains the practical benefits of each. Grouping helps streamline movement, alignment, and bulk editing, while ungrouping allows for precise control and detailed modifications. Mastering these functions ensures a faster, cleaner, and more productive laser design process.

This guide shows how to create a personalized rubber stamp using the LONGER Ray5 10W laser engraver and 3mm basswood. From designing curved text and icons in LightBurn, to engraving and cutting with optimized laser settings, the process is straightforward and fun. By mirroring the design and ensuring deep engraving, users can produce high-quality stamps ideal for crafts, packaging, and personalized branding. A great DIY project to showcase creativity and precision with laser technology.

The Material Test feature in LightBurn helps laser users quickly determine the optimal engraving or cutting settings for different materials. This guide covers step-by-step instructions—from accessing the tool and configuring test matrices to previewing, running tests, and analyzing results. Whether you need to tweak power, speed, interval, or passes, this tool streamlines calibration and enhances output quality with less trial and error. Perfect for both beginners and advanced users aiming for precise, consistent results.

LightBurn’s Trace Image feature lets users easily convert bitmap images—like cartoons, logos, or handwritten sketches—into vector paths for laser engraving and cutting. This guide walks through each step, from importing and adjusting brightness thresholds to optimizing smoothness and vector cleanup. Perfect for anyone looking to expand their laser project designs using the Nano Pro or other LONGER engravers.

Leather engraving adds unique charm to handmade items like wallets and belts. With its precision and portability, the LONGER Nano Pro is ideal for laser engraving leather. This guide walks you through the full process—from setup and design prep to LightBurn settings and safety tips—so you can achieve high-quality, personalized results with ease.

Slate is a stylish and durable material ideal for personalized engraving projects. With the LONGER Nano Pro laser engraver and LightBurn software, users can easily etch detailed graphics, text, or art onto slate surfaces. This guide explores the principles behind slate laser engraving, compares direct and coated methods, and offers a step-by-step process using the Nano Pro. By properly preparing the slate and fine-tuning engraving settings, creators can achieve crisp, professional results. Whether for gifts, signage, or home décor, laser engraving slate has never been more accessible.

Repeating the same pattern in laser engraving projects can be time-consuming if done manually. LightBurn’s “Create an Array of the Selected Objects” feature allows LONGER laser engraver users to instantly duplicate any design in multiple rows and columns with precise spacing and alignment. This step-by-step guide explains how to use the array tool, customize its parameters, and streamline repetitive tasks—ideal for bulk production or patterned engraving. Save time, boost accuracy, and improve workflow efficiency with this powerful LightBurn function.

Line interval is a key setting in LightBurn that directly impacts engraving detail, visual quality, and processing time. This guide uses the LONGER NANO Pro to demonstrate how different line intervals—from 0.03mm for high-detail work to 0.12mm for fast, low-detail tasks—can dramatically change the outcome of your laser projects. By understanding and adjusting this parameter, users can achieve the perfect balance of precision, efficiency, and artistic style in their engravings.