I started my business August 2022. Only 3 months in and it's been amazing. I don't have a website and I'm staying away from online sales. I want to support my community and stay local. Every time I go to town I find a business, snag their logo off their Facebook page, design it in corel/lightburn, make a few hats and a tumbler, then deliver it in person. I've only had 1 business not give me a call YET (still hoping). People are lazy, they don't want to deal with catalogs or the back and fourth of getting something made. I bring a high quality product, fast turnaround, I deliver, and I'm a local veteran business. The economy had me worried I would fail but you can't fail so long as it's not an option. There are 2 kinds of people, people who know they will succeed, and people who know they will fail, they are both right. Failure is not an option.
Amazing work bro. When you deliver the business a hat and/or tumbler with their logo, do you just ask for the manager or owner then tell them what you can offer them? How does that conversation go down to ensure you get your point across. Thank you!
Bro, your passion and the fact that you’re speaking from experience and giving genuine advice without any sense of ego is really refreshing. Thanks for all the advice appreciate your work man
@@LaserEngraving911 For one month I am searching for a fiber laser machine for metals with engraving function ( cutting also is an advantage but not must ) . The problem that in the market there is many brands and many TH-camrs saying our fiber laser is the best , another youtuber saying my fiber laser machine and i am really very confused. I need fiber laser machine to have a small business , the business idea already well prepared, i am beginner using lasers with no experience. I need mainly the fiber laser machine to engrave names and other symbols on gold, silver , aluminum, titanium, brass, chrome, acrylic things like that. If any one have an advice to me build on real practical experience it will be nice to show ne the direction.
I personally have started 2 successful small businesses from scratch and then sold or retired from them. Recently I made a major move and life change and am in the process of starting a new small business where I would be using a laser cutter and engraver, so I wanted to watch some videos to get feedback from people with real world experience, machines reviews, etc and came across this post. This video is about as good as it gets on things to keep in mind when starting almost any small business that provides a service or custom product. I have practiced and experienced some of these things myself and plan to use both this information and my accumulated knowledge going forward in my new venture. If planning to start and engraving or any type of small business, do yourself a favor and let what he is saying here sink in. Kudos Sir on your honest, and from what I can see, well informed video.
I've been trying to learn about laser engravers to buy the correct one. I came at this video looking for one answer but left with ten more that I didn't know I needed an answer for. Thank you, truly. I hope everyone in the same boat as me finds this, too. You rock!
As someone who has been using 3 different laser engravers for 3 different materials over the last 2 years (and I'm a fast learner), I have to say this man has really been through it and he knows EXACTLY what he's talking about. Take what he's saying seriously because if you don't, its not a matter of if you will run into these problems, but when - and how expensive that lesson will be. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into your videos, Michael ❤🔥
Reasons why. I have a sawmill. I bought it to finish building my 40x40 shop. The first cut-off of the mill is generally thin. When sanded and oiled, they are beautiful. I thought hand burning or hand engraving would turn these pieces into something nice and not fire wood. Since I am not an artist... the engraver is it. I also have a wood lathe. Engraving the bowls, cups, and mugs that I make would be a plus. I tan hides. I think engraving a deer hide with something unique would draw attention at a market. Making table tops, bench backs, logo buttons, or whatever is what I have intention of with an engraver. If I make money, that's great. If not, then it will fit right in with the rest of my hobbies. Since I am not a very good businessman, the advice you gave is invaluable. Thank you. I have taken enough of your time. Again, thank you for the video.
That number one reason hit home for sure. Just getting ready to start up and it's all a little overwhelming. But I'm ready to learn and be my own boss!!
Spot on Amigo! The only outcome in a race to the bottom is that all participants will get there! It’s very easy to lower prices and almost impossible to come back up.
One thing that helped me was practice practice practice. I'd go out to second hand shops and buy a bunch of random things, odd shapes, different materials and use them as a cheap sacrificial base to learn on. I even just went outside and collected stones to try, went to a counter top manufacturer and got scraps of different material they use etc. You can learn and do trial/error cheaply if you are resourceful.
Excellent points. As someone who spent years in the printing industry, on both sides (printing design and customer), clear proofs are absolutely essential.
the title had me thinking this was going to be one of those TH-cam videos. But it was very helpful. You earned my sub. My girlfried just started her laser engraving business. She bought a laser earlier this year and has learned a lot. This info was very useful.
I have a buddy who's an engraver, of all things known to man, and I suppose not all rules apply. Meaning he has no social media of any kind and no advertising and he's just killing it. Charges $22 more an hour than his competitors and is still dominating the scene. Hard to do In the DFW area but is doing it. He has an old school approach to everything he does and it works. Works 6 hours a day, no weekends and takes 4 two week long vacations a year. Don't know his secrets but he mastered it
I'm in several diode laser facebook groups, and the biggest thing I see are people that want a laser businee, but they don't want to learn anything, or make any effort. They want designs free. They want someone to tell them how to do it. The idea of burning a test grid on a material is unthinkable to them. "Just tell me ythe settings!"....
2:30 - As a pro photographer running my own studio for 20+ years I have to say I agree 10000% with your statement. Generally the people that want cheap are also the ones that will be the WORST when it comes to being picky and pushy later on in the process. I hate to say it but the people with larger pockets tend to understand more what goes into a product and appreciate it more than someone wanting a wedding for $150.
That’s very true! It takes experience to walk away from that sale, a sale doesn’t always bring profit or happiness. The smallest deal brings the biggest problems! The customer is not always right and experience will allow you to spot them from the beginning. Just remember, someone is always gonna do it cheaper, not for long as it doesn’t work, but someone will always replace that cheaper person, don’t succumb to doing it at there level and it’s fine to say no. Quote-unless you say no, your yeses will never count.
Hey brother, I’m glad I ran across your video. For the past 20 years, I’ve owned an IT company correctly. It’s actually called an MSSP but do the changes in the IT industry specifically for healthcare IT I have reached a significant amount of burnout. Since I work so hard, I lost my creativity and I’ve also lost my joint for what I do. Recently, I’m buying a late a couple laser cutters like but you’ve talked about their little expensive but it’s something I am enjoying using for engraving and laser, cutting wood plastic you name it also started getting into 3-D printing with the carbon fiber printers . One things I started doing for my clients is that I do floor plans for their houses I also have been doing 3-D printouts of the floor plan that’s required like fire skate plans behind doors. Also start doing metal engraving of the floorplans creating signs for their businesses, so this expanded me from just been an MSP to , enjoy myself with creativity and having fun again. What I’m getting at is I ran into your video today and you have been spot on about failure business and it doesn’t have to be like you’re doing with Mel engraving or metal printing but for any kind of company . I’m 56 years old and I’ve worked hard my entire life but I have definitely reached a point where I have been actually depressed and tired because I work so hard but with the economy things have changed and I just stopped caring your video motivated me and has put me back into a place where I actually want to enjoy what I do again so thank you .
Awesome advice. I’m just starting out. I have 2 years before I retire from my PD. So far I am learning a ton and am loving it. Thank you for the good advice.
I stumbled across your Chanel as I began doing research on co2 lasers. I would like to say THANK YOU for such an informative video. Full of honesty and transparency. I look forward to learning more from you. 💥✅
What a great video! I just started working in this industry. I am very glad that your video appeared at this time. It saved me a lot of time. You speak very clearly and have strong expressive skills. Anyway, thank you for this wonderful content!
What a great video! I wish I had seen this before I got started. In the last two months I've made every mistake you listed. Right now the burnout is the worst. My full time job has a huge workforce and the orders don't stop (not just engraving, 3D printing and sublimation too).. last week I came home and stayed up all night making orders then went back to work feeling miserable. Days like that turn the excitement in to questioning the decision to start a small business. Anyway thanks for this great content!
Sound like its time to get some part time help maybe, or start selecting which jobs you take on, or raise your prices! Glad you got value! form the video and TY for commenting! If you want do do private 1HR consultation I'm happy to strategize with you! you can book that here : ) www.sonomalaserengraving.com/product-page/1-hour-personalized-consultation-with-laser-engraving-911
This video couldn't have been better time for me finding this. I got the glowforge pro and have been frustrated trying to figure out what mistakes I've been making since I'm all alone in this, making dumb mistakes. Thanks man for the advice. Already subscribed
I am trying to get my laser business started. I am 74 and want to quit my full-time job and begin enjoying what I do again. I have made poor choices in purchasing a laser so now I have to rethink what I want to do. This video opened my eyes to issues that I was beginning to encounter and didn't know why. Thank you for this video. I have subscribed to your channel and will be watching all your videos to learn as much as I can. I have watch other videos and were taken in by their honest appearing advise. Wish I had seen this video sooner.
Hi Nancy ,my name is Pete and I too are 74 ,due to circumstances I need to create a business for interest and a need to better myself .i have been researching regard to lasers and my question is on what machines to avoid.cheers from Deloraine Tasmania
This is just what I needed to hear. Just purchased my laser and plan on taking the time to learn the machine. I getting ready to retire in about a year. That when I plan on making a side hustle. Great video and plan on watching some more. Thanks again
You are 100% correct about avoiding undercutting other vendors. When several vendors start undercutting prices in a race to the bottom, the end result is that most of them go out of business over the course of a few months. Those who set reasonable prices and do not waiver will see a decline in revenue but eventually prices will return to a fair and reasonable level. FWIW, I don't buy from the lowest cost vendor because I want to avoid knockoff products, good customer service, and a vendor who will be in business over the long term so I can make additional purchases in the future.
#10 is spot on. I can't count the number of times starting out that I said "pay me what you think is fair" and be way under paid or asked to make something they want to pay me half the cost of the example they showed me
Went to your website - Just can't help myself, too many years in business I want to see if someone walks the talk. Your website is walking tall, somehow it makes me feel like I could do a small little one-off with you or order 10k widgets due yesterday. Bravo
I wish we found this guy before buying our first laser machine ..waste of money and o much frustration! But will be smarter for our next machine / upgrade
@@adamarzo559 Hi There, I do not have a glow forge I have two Epilog Lasers, waste of money I was referring to using diode lasers for high production work, in a professional setting.
Thank you for the tips and advice. I am getting ready to buy one for my business so that I can personalise customers Jewellery and my own items. Thank you again. I do appreciate this video and you for making it. Especially the part of Don't get down on yourself! Perfect advice.
Going over what kinds of lasers do what was a surprise clutch addin for this video. I am trying to find out what cuts foam and this was a surprise add in. Epic information. Thank you so much!
Amazing info, thanks for sharing. The word of encouragement at the end applies to most of us and in any endeaver...thanks. You just saved me from pulling the trigger on a LASER that won't do what I want done. I want to engrave a logo and a serial numbers on 1/2" copper cylinders (plumbing). I just learned from you that I need a fiber LASER. I was also about to close the deal on a slowwww machine. Thanks for making this video, I just subscribed.
This is pretty universal. I'm a marketer. I have an hourly rate or a minimum. And I follow the same method. I coach tons of businesses on this. It matters.
This is the second time I have watched this. Lazer engraving is a small part of what I'm doing. I bought a diode laser. It is due today. I have a customer lined up, but I have a lot of material to practice on before I do her work. I bought most of the bells and whistles for this machine, so as to your advise I will learn what it will do. I assure you I will watch it again. I can only go in baby steps right now. Thanks again.
Retired Army guy here... Looking for something to do, and i thought it might be fun to make things, and sell locally, like at craft fairs, etc. I bought a diode laser system, and perhaps, if things go well, i'll look into the other types as a path of growth. I appreciate your insight, and I cant wait to get going, and learning this stuff.
Thanks man. Laser and 3d printed projects became my hobby last December and boom, after 5 months, I decided to add these to my business. I have just a poor, NEJE laser (diode) but thats all I can afford for now. I already have money for CO2 laser, but first I must prepare a new room in my basement for it. Anyway, such advices are great. I started with my own projects (im not just engraving, Im focused more on separate projects which give me fun). Last time I felt like I'm burnt out, at least for some time, but really, such short film gave me some energy to continue my work there :)
Excellent guidelines. #10 & 9: that's so true! I have the hardest time with the first item, #10. With regard to #9, i ALWAYS get the customer to physically sign the proof.
Outstanding advice. Some of these things I have already encountered. I am currently in a down time waiting for a focus lens because of not cleaning it. I got busy and forgot about it. Lesson learned. Working on getting a stock of spare parts now and figuring out the maintenance schedule to make sure this doesn't happen again. Started with a diode and found out fast that that was no where near cost effective. Working an entire day to to engrave a mediocre quality engraving on a cutting board was almost torture. But your advice on pricing is where I have struggled. Thank you so much for the tips. Love your videos.
Hey, Thanks for sharing your own experience! Glad to see Im on point with the video, glad you got some value from this, and thanks for your support! Means alot!
Sculpfun s9 with the extended rails. 5.5 watt output. Not a bad machine for someone experimenting or for hobbies but for business it misses due to power and the extra that has to be spent for an enclosure and exhaust either made or bought. I still have it and I am thinking of removing the laser to use the gantry for a plasma cutter to make small pieces for my other projects. There are a couple of videos out there on how to do it and I think it would be a great addition to what I do.
Greetings from Albania, this is the first video I follow, my compliments are very interesting. I would add one reason, you have to love the work you do with passion, during work there will be many difficulties, most of which you mentioned above, but if you don't have passion, it doesn't last long, you have to love your work.
Replace the words laser engraving with family portraits, transmission rebuilds, pet grooming, dog walking, etc.etc. This is all just excellent sound advice. Been there and done that and have nothing I can honestly add. Start small with the resources you can reach and the talent you have. There’s a sweet spot in small business where you look professional without having a storefront and employee overhead.
I dont do lazer work, but I do art and Etsy was something I immediately went to as to see what I could price my art for. I was mortified to find out much of what I do (hand work) is selling for *what takes me * about $5 -10 per hour. Needless to say I will be attempting other avenues of selling.
This was such an outstanding and helpful video! I didn’t even know that there was a whole potential business possibility, but i just put a deposit down for the Wecreat machine that is coming out. Now I’m going to work with my 12 year old and teach her some entrepreneurship with the laser and watching educational videos like yours! Hats off man!
I just got a WeCreat and have been loving it so far. My TH-cam channel has been all about Cricut crafts for the last 3 years and now that I got my laser a week ago all I want to do is play with it! The WeCreat is so fun and easy to use
Excellent information! This popped up at the right time because I am just getting interested into lasers. I already do woodworking and CNC work and I’m thinking that this may be the thing I’m looking for.
All well said for any maker, subscribed. Although I been running crazy #8 for decades..just stay healthy and take time for faith and family and then you can work a super lot if you love it.
This is great advice not only for a laser based business. I think it is great advice for any maker type business. For example, screen printing, vinyl, CNC engraving, wood working, and so on. I have a wood shop that if I had the time, would be a business. I have expanded my offerings to include CNC engraving and now working on laser engraving. The problem I have now is I don't have the home space to support all of the machinery but I also don't have the volume of work to support a commercial space.
Glad it was helpful! Yes I dont think speed of all these machines is talked about very much at all in all the videos I've watched and information, but its so important! if you plan on running a business and making money!
I actually used to sell flatbed CO2 laser (one on your "speed" list) and currently in the galvo business. The "marketing" comment is spot on. I worked with several smaller shops and not only did they not have a marketing plan, some did not have a business plan either. it is well worth the fairly small expense to help your business grow
Most Videos like this are boring. I have made it to the end of this Video because everything that you are saying is very true and worth the watch if you are serious about a laser business...I left a like and subed you thanks for the good Video! I appreciate your time!
I started engraving using a diode laser about 7 months ago, but researched all about it months before jumping in. I can confidently say I do great work, have sold a good amount of signs/cutting boards/slate coasters and art canvas's. But then all of a sudden it went very slow, no emails, no calls, no texts. Just that alone makes me want to pull the plug on it this side hustle/hobby, but I still have hopes for it. Really awesome advice and video!
There is a local laser cutting business who only sells small stuff on Etsy and they buy $80,000 worth of 1/4 birch plywood from our local Home Depot each year because they sell so much. It’s all about the strategy. Don’t give up.
@@Painfulwhale360 Why in the world do they buy it from Home Depot??? Surely there is a local supplier that has better quality and the owner lives in the community. I've used the HD plywood. It's not good. I get 3mm baltic birch for about $25 for a 60" x 60" sheet locally here in OKC.
@@Painfulwhale360 If he only sells on Etsy the fees he pays to Etsy are massive and he could be making significantly more if he had his own site and worked to finesse his skills to better projects listed on his own site. With every order on Etsy send a card with the business site so people go there instead of Etsy and he gets all the money (except fees for site and CC vendor or Paypal) and doesn't pay Etsy and people find it's better to buy direct from him than Etsy. I also agree on sourcing his materials from a supplier directly over a bix box store if he knows what he needs and he may find pieces that a big box store does not sell as well that he could turn into works of art.
Fantastic advice, Thank you. I am growing at a snail's pace because I am unsure as to the proper way to go, or how to do it. Your video has really opened up my eyes to where to begin... Thanks
great video man! stumbled across this looking for inspiration and you did NOT disappoint! so thank yo for that and hopefully I can share some projects from lessons learned
Thanks for the tips brotha. I started Taylored Products Nov 2022 and it has been a wild ride. I’ve already ran into some of the warnings you give and can attest. My next step is fully professionalizing the operation, getting my website dialed and getting fully on the socials. Thanks again for the encouragement.
Great advice!! Only thing I would add is to not be afraid of negative reviews. Customers like to see how you handle projects. And if something goes wrong. You make it right. Buy a new item to redo etc. that goes a long way
All valid advice. Personally me and my brother got a retail space for producing podcasts. Its a lot more expensive and a hassle than it originally seems. You cant exactly shower, sleep, or cook at a retail space so its a lot less convenient. Definitely try doing things at home until you are no longer able to or really feel its worth the investment because you have many clients. Dont expect clients to just appear once you get a retail space, because sure a few people will come, but it won't be enough to make it worth it and you will be tied up into a lease its a big risk.
My business partner and I started a laser business about 6 months ago but we started expanding in far too many directions. We now do sublimation, vinyl, HTV, clothing, hats, tumblers, etc we just recently added custom embroidered patches and 3D printing. If we fail it’s likely cuz we have our fingers in too many pies.
Greetings from the UK, some great advice there. we are looking at a thunder laser for a new Business set up in the new year. Thanks for taking the time & sharing your experience.
I started my business August 2022. Only 3 months in and it's been amazing. I don't have a website and I'm staying away from online sales. I want to support my community and stay local. Every time I go to town I find a business, snag their logo off their Facebook page, design it in corel/lightburn, make a few hats and a tumbler, then deliver it in person. I've only had 1 business not give me a call YET (still hoping). People are lazy, they don't want to deal with catalogs or the back and fourth of getting something made. I bring a high quality product, fast turnaround, I deliver, and I'm a local veteran business. The economy had me worried I would fail but you can't fail so long as it's not an option. There are 2 kinds of people, people who know they will succeed, and people who know they will fail, they are both right. Failure is not an option.
Thanks for sharing your experience sound like your on a great trajectory!
@@DanielIvan707 Thanks!
Amazing work bro. When you deliver the business a hat and/or tumbler with their logo, do you just ask for the manager or owner then tell them what you can offer them? How does that conversation go down to ensure you get your point across. Thank you!
I quit my full-time job working for someone else a year ago. I absolutely can't go back. I can't live that life anymore.
Those last lines hit
Bro, your passion and the fact that you’re speaking from experience and giving genuine advice without any sense of ego is really refreshing. Thanks for all the advice appreciate your work man
Thank You for that, glad you got value from it 👌
@@LaserEngraving911
For one month I am searching for a fiber laser machine for metals with engraving function ( cutting also is an advantage but not must ) .
The problem that in the market there is many brands and many TH-camrs saying our fiber laser is the best , another youtuber saying my fiber laser machine and i am really very confused.
I need fiber laser machine to have a small business , the business idea already well prepared, i am beginner using lasers with no experience.
I need mainly the fiber laser machine to engrave names and other symbols on gold, silver , aluminum, titanium, brass, chrome, acrylic things like that.
If any one have an advice to me build on real practical experience it will be nice to show ne the direction.
I personally have started 2 successful small businesses from scratch and then sold or retired from them. Recently I made a major move and life change and am in the process of starting a new small business where I would be using a laser cutter and engraver, so I wanted to watch some videos to get feedback from people with real world experience, machines reviews, etc and came across this post. This video is about as good as it gets on things to keep in mind when starting almost any small business that provides a service or custom product. I have practiced and experienced some of these things myself and plan to use both this information and my accumulated knowledge going forward in my new venture. If planning to start and engraving or any type of small business, do yourself a favor and let what he is saying here sink in. Kudos Sir on your honest, and from what I can see, well informed video.
Thanks for taking the time to comment and I'm glad you got value! Wishing you well in your next venture!
Since day 1 of staring my laser biz, I have always sent mock ups to my customers. It prevents so many headaches. Totally worth the extra time.
Worth it, must do!
What do you design on?
@@HGhourii Adobe Illustrator
Help prevent a Spinal Tap Stonehenge type incident.
I've been trying to learn about laser engravers to buy the correct one. I came at this video looking for one answer but left with ten more that I didn't know I needed an answer for. Thank you, truly. I hope everyone in the same boat as me finds this, too. You rock!
Thanks awesome! Glad it helped!
As someone who has been using 3 different laser engravers for 3 different materials over the last 2 years (and I'm a fast learner), I have to say this man has really been through it and he knows EXACTLY what he's talking about. Take what he's saying seriously because if you don't, its not a matter of if you will run into these problems, but when - and how expensive that lesson will be. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into your videos, Michael ❤🔥
Thank You!!!!!!
@@LaserEngraving911Thank YOU!! 🌷
Reasons why. I have a sawmill. I bought it to finish building my 40x40 shop. The first cut-off of the mill is generally thin. When sanded and oiled, they are beautiful. I thought hand burning or hand engraving would turn these pieces into something nice and not fire wood. Since I am not an artist... the engraver is it. I also have a wood lathe. Engraving the bowls, cups, and mugs that I make would be a plus. I tan hides. I think engraving a deer hide with something unique would draw attention at a market. Making table tops, bench backs, logo buttons, or whatever is what I have intention of with an engraver. If I make money, that's great. If not, then it will fit right in with the rest of my hobbies.
Since I am not a very good businessman, the advice you gave is invaluable. Thank you. I have taken enough of your time. Again, thank you for the video.
That number one reason hit home for sure. Just getting ready to start up and it's all a little overwhelming. But I'm ready to learn and be my own boss!!
Great advice!! Burn out and pricing have been my mistakes.
Spot on Amigo! The only outcome in a race to the bottom is that all participants will get there!
It’s very easy to lower prices and almost impossible to come back up.
well put!
One thing that helped me was practice practice practice. I'd go out to second hand shops and buy a bunch of random things, odd shapes, different materials and use them as a cheap sacrificial base to learn on. I even just went outside and collected stones to try, went to a counter top manufacturer and got scraps of different material they use etc. You can learn and do trial/error cheaply if you are resourceful.
yep, when I first started I pretty much engraved every in my house I could get my hands on practicing, still always testing and practicing even today!
@@LaserEngraving911 I was a smartass and engraved a spider on my wife's hair brush. She's terrified of them. It got her more than once lol
Excellent points. As someone who spent years in the printing industry, on both sides (printing design and customer), clear proofs are absolutely essential.
Thanks for commenting! appreciated that!
I really watched more then a 100 videos but i swear this one video taught me more then all of them combined... Thanks alot Mr Engraver
Hey Ali, what a nice comment! Thanks I'm glad you got some great value form this! Thanks for your support!
the title had me thinking this was going to be one of those TH-cam videos. But it was very helpful. You earned my sub.
My girlfried just started her laser engraving business. She bought a laser earlier this year and has learned a lot. This info was very useful.
Glad it helped!
Tysm for your honesty. You just helped answer so many questions I’ve looked up and every video had no answers for it. You’re an amazingly huge help!!
Awesome, so glad you could gleen some info!
I've been in the laser business for 12 years. Good advice.
"Tips Hat To You"
I have a buddy who's an engraver, of all things known to man, and I suppose not all rules apply. Meaning he has no social media of any kind and no advertising and he's just killing it. Charges $22 more an hour than his competitors and is still dominating the scene. Hard to do In the DFW area but is doing it. He has an old school approach to everything he does and it works. Works 6 hours a day, no weekends and takes 4 two week long vacations a year. Don't know his secrets but he mastered it
Word of mouth is all powerful! Thanks for sharing.
It'd be really interesting to hear his philosophies. Is he willing to share them?
Forget lasers, this is good business advice period.
Thanks for that!
I'm in several diode laser facebook groups, and the biggest thing I see are people that want a laser businee, but they don't want to learn anything, or make any effort. They want designs free. They want someone to tell them how to do it. The idea of burning a test grid on a material is unthinkable to them. "Just tell me ythe settings!"....
Well that's not gonna help anybody! I like to teach people "HOW" to fish not just bring them the fish.
2:30 - As a pro photographer running my own studio for 20+ years I have to say I agree 10000% with your statement. Generally the people that want cheap are also the ones that will be the WORST when it comes to being picky and pushy later on in the process. I hate to say it but the people with larger pockets tend to understand more what goes into a product and appreciate it more than someone wanting a wedding for $150.
Thanks for validating that using your real world experience! and Thanks for watching!
That’s very true! It takes experience to walk away from that sale, a sale doesn’t always bring profit or happiness. The smallest deal brings the biggest problems! The customer is not always right and experience will allow you to spot them from the beginning. Just remember, someone is always gonna do it cheaper, not for long as it doesn’t work, but someone will always replace that cheaper person, don’t succumb to doing it at there level and it’s fine to say no. Quote-unless you say no, your yeses will never count.
I’m a former wedding planner and can back this as 100% accurate.
My husband and I are starting in this business. At least that’s the plan. Any advise on where to really start would be greatly appreciated!
@@LaserEngraving911 my husband and I are really considering in getting into the engraving/ cutting business. We would appreciate any advice please..
I like the pill box for travel, the box device, and the flashlight. Thanks for doing all of this footwork for us, Michael!
Hey brother, I’m glad I ran across your video.
For the past 20 years, I’ve owned an IT company correctly. It’s actually called an MSSP but do the changes in the IT industry specifically for healthcare IT I have reached a significant amount of burnout.
Since I work so hard, I lost my creativity and I’ve also lost my joint for what I do.
Recently, I’m buying a late a couple laser cutters like but you’ve talked about their little expensive but it’s something I am enjoying using for engraving and laser, cutting wood plastic you name it also started getting into 3-D printing with the carbon fiber printers .
One things I started doing for my clients is that I do floor plans for their houses I also have been doing 3-D printouts of the floor plan that’s required like fire skate plans behind doors. Also start doing metal engraving of the floorplans creating signs for their businesses, so this expanded me from just been an MSP to , enjoy myself with creativity and having fun again.
What I’m getting at is I ran into your video today and you have been spot on about failure business and it doesn’t have to be like you’re doing with Mel engraving or metal printing but for any kind of company .
I’m 56 years old and I’ve worked hard my entire life but I have definitely reached a point where I have been actually depressed and tired because I work so hard but with the economy things have changed and I just stopped caring your video motivated me and has put me back into a place where I actually want to enjoy what I do again so thank you .
Excuse the errors with the grammar, but I’m using a transcript on my phone to type this out because it’s too much to type out off the phone
Man what a cool story!! very glad you shared here and Im glad my video put some zing back in your life!! Thanks for watching and commenting!!
This was way more educational than I expected.
It's excellent advice for starting any craft business. I especially love the House Minimum.
Thank You!
Awesome advice. I’m just starting out. I have 2 years before I retire from my PD. So far I am learning a ton and am loving it. Thank you for the good advice.
You got this!
Machinist going into laser engraving, this video is incredibly helpful, thanks man.
You're welcome!
I stumbled across your Chanel as I began doing research on co2 lasers. I would like to say THANK YOU for such an informative video. Full of honesty and transparency. I look forward to learning more from you. 💥✅
Awesome, thanks for taking the time to let me know. !
What a great video! I just started working in this industry. I am very glad that your video appeared at this time. It saved me a lot of time. You speak very clearly and have strong expressive skills. Anyway, thank you for this wonderful content!
What a great video! I wish I had seen this before I got started. In the last two months I've made every mistake you listed. Right now the burnout is the worst. My full time job has a huge workforce and the orders don't stop (not just engraving, 3D printing and sublimation too).. last week I came home and stayed up all night making orders then went back to work feeling miserable. Days like that turn the excitement in to questioning the decision to start a small business. Anyway thanks for this great content!
Sound like its time to get some part time help maybe, or start selecting which jobs you take on, or raise your prices! Glad you got value! form the video and TY for commenting! If you want do do private 1HR consultation I'm happy to strategize with you! you can book that here : ) www.sonomalaserengraving.com/product-page/1-hour-personalized-consultation-with-laser-engraving-911
This video couldn't have been better time for me finding this. I got the glowforge pro and have been frustrated trying to figure out what mistakes I've been making since I'm all alone in this, making dumb mistakes. Thanks man for the advice. Already subscribed
Hey, Kris, glad to hear you go some insight from my video, Thanks!
Glow forge was a mistake. Sry
Good advice for almost any small business. Thanks.
I am trying to get my laser business started. I am 74 and want to quit my full-time job and begin enjoying what I do again. I have made poor choices in purchasing a laser so now I have to rethink what I want to do. This video opened my eyes to issues that I was beginning to encounter and didn't know why. Thank you for this video. I have subscribed to your channel and will be watching all your videos to learn as much as I can. I have watch other videos and were taken in by their honest appearing advise. Wish I had seen this video sooner.
Nancy, I'm glad to hear you got value form this video! Thanks, and thank you for subscribing I hope I can bring you more insight in the future!
Hi Nancy ,my name is Pete and I too are 74 ,due to circumstances I need to create a business for interest and a need to better myself .i have been researching regard to lasers and my question is on what machines to avoid.cheers from Deloraine Tasmania
This is just what I needed to hear. Just purchased my laser and plan on taking the time to learn the machine. I getting ready to retire in about a year. That when I plan on making a side hustle. Great video and plan on watching some more. Thanks again
You are welcome and hope your enjoy your retirement! lucky!
You are 100% correct about avoiding undercutting other vendors. When several vendors start undercutting prices in a race to the bottom, the end result is that most of them go out of business over the course of a few months. Those who set reasonable prices and do not waiver will see a decline in revenue but eventually prices will return to a fair and reasonable level. FWIW, I don't buy from the lowest cost vendor because I want to avoid knockoff products, good customer service, and a vendor who will be in business over the long term so I can make additional purchases in the future.
I’m glad I found this video. I want to start my own business and considering laser engraving. I know nothing so far. Looking to take a leap!
Glad you got some nuggets of info from my video!
#10 is spot on. I can't count the number of times starting out that I said "pay me what you think is fair" and be way under paid or asked to make something they want to pay me half the cost of the example they showed me
Thanks for commenting and sharing!
Great advice for someone like me looking to get into the laser engraving business. The comment about Etsy was a good one!
Thank you! glad you go some value!!
I love it, you said," if that's your bag". I haven't heard that in years, you're right we need to bring that back. Good advice too.
Thatz one of my lines!
Great job of presenting your advice. This could very easily be done for any small business out there.
Glad you think so!
Went to your website - Just can't help myself, too many years in business I want to see if someone walks the talk. Your website is walking tall, somehow it makes me feel like I could do a small little one-off with you or order 10k widgets due yesterday. Bravo
LoL! Thanks for doing the deep dive! and Thanks for checking that I walk the talk! :)
I have questioned and searched for information the difference of the lasers. I learned what I was looking for through your video. Thank you!
YEs, That's great!
Bro thank you so much I started learning today cause I ordered my first laser engraver and this video is helping me a lot to get my ideas in order
No problem 👍 Glad I could help!
I wish we found this guy before buying our first laser machine ..waste of money and o much frustration! But will be smarter for our next machine / upgrade
Thanks!
Can you elaborate? What do you mean by waste of money? Why are you upgrading your laser? I assume you must have a glowforge....?
@@adamarzo559 Hi There, I do not have a glow forge I have two Epilog Lasers, waste of money I was referring to using diode lasers for high production work, in a professional setting.
Thank you for the tips and advice. I am getting ready to buy one for my business so that I can personalise customers Jewellery and my own items. Thank you again. I do appreciate this video and you for making it. Especially the part of Don't get down on yourself! Perfect advice.
You are so welcome!
Going over what kinds of lasers do what was a surprise clutch addin for this video. I am trying to find out what cuts foam and this was a surprise add in. Epic information. Thank you so much!
Co2 can engrave and cut EVA foam nicely.
Amazing info, thanks for sharing. The word of encouragement at the end applies to most of us and in any endeaver...thanks.
You just saved me from pulling the trigger on a LASER that won't do what I want done. I want to engrave a logo and a serial numbers on 1/2" copper cylinders (plumbing). I just learned from you that I need a fiber LASER. I was also about to close the deal on a slowwww machine. Thanks for making this video, I just subscribed.
Glad it was helpful! Welcome!
Thank you for taking the time to help others along. Trying to get my business off the ground and I fell like I’m in a rut. You re-energized my focus.
Yeahh! That's awesome to hear! Go out and get some! You got this!
This is pretty universal. I'm a marketer. I have an hourly rate or a minimum. And I follow the same method. I coach tons of businesses on this. It matters.
This is the second time I have watched this. Lazer engraving is a small part of what I'm doing. I bought a diode laser. It is due today. I have a customer lined up, but I have a lot of material to practice on before I do her work. I bought most of the bells and whistles for this machine, so as to your advise I will learn what it will do. I assure you I will watch it again. I can only go in baby steps right now. Thanks again.
Glad I could help, hope you make a some great stuff!!
Retired Army guy here... Looking for something to do, and i thought it might be fun to make things, and sell locally, like at craft fairs, etc. I bought a diode laser system, and perhaps, if things go well, i'll look into the other types as a path of growth. I appreciate your insight, and I cant wait to get going, and learning this stuff.
Nice! Thank You for taking the time to leave a comment!
I star my business in 2006 and you cover a lot to success thanks for your info I appreciate.
You are welcome!!
Am literally in love with u man... U replied to everyone 😮am really amazed
🤣🤣 👍
Right out the gate with good advice.
Always stick to your shop minimum. It will filter out problem clients
Another good point Thanks!
All Great advice!!
Thank you for taking the time to put this together.
My favorites are “learn a drawing program” and “set a minimum price”.
Thanks
Thanks! and thank you for supporting my endeavors!
New to the laser business. Thank you.
Great video and inspirational, sir. I’m sure this has helped countless, aspiring businesses. Well done, indeed.
Thanks!!! :)
Thanks man. Laser and 3d printed projects became my hobby last December and boom, after 5 months, I decided to add these to my business.
I have just a poor, NEJE laser (diode) but thats all I can afford for now. I already have money for CO2 laser, but first I must prepare a new room in my basement for it.
Anyway, such advices are great. I started with my own projects (im not just engraving, Im focused more on separate projects which give me fun).
Last time I felt like I'm burnt out, at least for some time, but really, such short film gave me some energy to continue my work there :)
Thanks really cool to hear, thanks for the support and keep up the fun!
Excellent guidelines.
#10 & 9: that's so true! I have the hardest time with the first item, #10. With regard to #9, i ALWAYS get the customer to physically sign the proof.
Thank You for taking the time to leave your take, appreciate it!
Number 7, gold! (It's one of the requirements of ISO 9001, nicely and easily explained).
This video was amazing. I just ordered a polar 350. I can’t wait to get started. Thank you for your guidance
Thanks! Your off to a great start, keep learning all day long!
Outstanding advice. Some of these things I have already encountered. I am currently in a down time waiting for a focus lens because of not cleaning it. I got busy and forgot about it. Lesson learned. Working on getting a stock of spare parts now and figuring out the maintenance schedule to make sure this doesn't happen again. Started with a diode and found out fast that that was no where near cost effective. Working an entire day to to engrave a mediocre quality engraving on a cutting board was almost torture. But your advice on pricing is where I have struggled. Thank you so much for the tips. Love your videos.
Hey, Thanks for sharing your own experience! Glad to see Im on point with the video, glad you got some value from this, and thanks for your support! Means alot!
Which diode did you start with?
Sculpfun s9 with the extended rails. 5.5 watt output. Not a bad machine for someone experimenting or for hobbies but for business it misses due to power and the extra that has to be spent for an enclosure and exhaust either made or bought. I still have it and I am thinking of removing the laser to use the gantry for a plasma cutter to make small pieces for my other projects. There are a couple of videos out there on how to do it and I think it would be a great addition to what I do.
Greetings from Albania, this is the first video I follow, my compliments are very interesting. I would add one reason, you have to love the work you do with passion, during work there will be many difficulties, most of which you mentioned above, but if you don't have passion, it doesn't last long, you have to love your work.
Agree 100%
The lower price game.... a race to the bottom. Great advice. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for stopping by!
I really enjoy your videos, thank you for being so humble and sharing your passion with us newbies to learn from. 😊
Thank you, for the nice comment and taking the time to watch!
THANKS FOR THE PEP TALK AT THE ENd>.. REALLY NEEDED IT!!
Replace the words laser engraving with family portraits, transmission rebuilds, pet grooming, dog walking, etc.etc. This is all just excellent sound advice. Been there and done that and have nothing I can honestly add. Start small with the resources you can reach and the talent you have. There’s a sweet spot in small business where you look professional without having a storefront and employee overhead.
Exactly. I was going to post that I don't have this type of business but it is excellent advice for my guitar effects pedal business.
I dont do lazer work, but I do art and Etsy was something I immediately went to as to see what I could price my art for. I was mortified to find out much of what I do (hand work) is selling for *what takes me * about $5 -10 per hour. Needless to say I will be attempting other avenues of selling.
Number 1! Believe in yourself! Great video.
Yay!!! True That!
Thank You so very much. I'm just getting started, looking for all the information I can get; I appreciate it.
🤩
This was such an outstanding and helpful video! I didn’t even know that there was a whole potential business possibility, but i just put a deposit down for the Wecreat machine that is coming out. Now I’m going to work with my 12 year old and teach her some entrepreneurship with the laser and watching educational videos like yours! Hats off man!
You're so welcome!
I just got a WeCreat and have been loving it so far. My TH-cam channel has been all about Cricut crafts for the last 3 years and now that I got my laser a week ago all I want to do is play with it! The WeCreat is so fun and easy to use
I've learned a lot from your advice. Especially, with the chart about the speed performence of different laser products.
Thanks for watching!!
Excellent information! This popped up at the right time because I am just getting interested into lasers. I already do woodworking and CNC work and I’m thinking that this may be the thing I’m looking for.
Great advice. "I can do it for less" is a race to the bottom.
Great content. Would love to see a part 2.
I really appreciate you taking the time to make this video. Much Appreciated.
My pleasure! Glad you got some value from it!
All well said for any maker, subscribed. Although I been running crazy #8 for decades..just stay healthy and take time for faith and family and then you can work a super lot if you love it.
Well said as well Sir!
Thank you for these insights …very helpful! Pricing is def a hard one when starting out
Glad it was helpful!
Man that was a a really nice video you could hype anybody up to do good in a business that was motivational and educational
I appreciate that!
Thank you for your big save the money and clear my confusions. Keep it up you value to the world.
welcome!!!
This is great advice not only for a laser based business. I think it is great advice for any maker type business. For example, screen printing, vinyl, CNC engraving, wood working, and so on. I have a wood shop that if I had the time, would be a business. I have expanded my offerings to include CNC engraving and now working on laser engraving. The problem I have now is I don't have the home space to support all of the machinery but I also don't have the volume of work to support a commercial space.
Thanks! I get that! your in a limbo state, sometimes we find ourselves there, it can be a hard call, Thanks for your support! and comments!
🎃 🎃🎃
Best video for laser beginners, thanks!
Thanks for the detail and experienced knowledge. Great video and I’m sure to be watching it more than once.
Thanks you glad you got so much value!
Excellent advice to anyone starting business for the first time. the information about types pf engravers, speed etc is very helpful.
Glad it was helpful! Yes I dont think speed of all these machines is talked about very much at all in all the videos I've watched and information, but its so important! if you plan on running a business and making money!
Great video thank you, I'm in the process of starting my laser engraving company it's alot of work but I love the challenge.👍
Nice! Your welcome!
I ran a laser business in 2005, for 7 years. I am getting back into it. I hit burnout back in the day!
it can happen! nice to hear your getting back in!
I actually used to sell flatbed CO2 laser (one on your "speed" list) and currently in the galvo business. The "marketing" comment is spot on. I worked with several smaller shops and not only did they not have a marketing plan, some did not have a business plan either. it is well worth the fairly small expense to help your business grow
Thanks for commenting! and sharing your thoughts on that!
Most Videos like this are boring. I have made it to the end of this Video because everything that you are saying is very true and worth the watch if you are serious about a laser business...I left a like and subed you thanks for the good Video! I appreciate your time!
Thank You!
I started engraving using a diode laser about 7 months ago, but researched all about it months before jumping in. I can confidently say I do great work, have sold a good amount of signs/cutting boards/slate coasters and art canvas's. But then all of a sudden it went very slow, no emails, no calls, no texts. Just that alone makes me want to pull the plug on it this side hustle/hobby, but I still have hopes for it. Really awesome advice and video!
Keep at it, sounds like you got some momentum!
There is a local laser cutting business who only sells small stuff on Etsy and they buy $80,000 worth of 1/4 birch plywood from our local Home Depot each year because they sell so much. It’s all about the strategy. Don’t give up.
@@Painfulwhale360 Why in the world do they buy it from Home Depot??? Surely there is a local supplier that has better quality and the owner lives in the community. I've used the HD plywood. It's not good. I get 3mm baltic birch for about $25 for a 60" x 60" sheet locally here in OKC.
@@Painfulwhale360 If he only sells on Etsy the fees he pays to Etsy are massive and he could be making significantly more if he had his own site and worked to finesse his skills to better projects listed on his own site. With every order on Etsy send a card with the business site so people go there instead of Etsy and he gets all the money (except fees for site and CC vendor or Paypal) and doesn't pay Etsy and people find it's better to buy direct from him than Etsy.
I also agree on sourcing his materials from a supplier directly over a bix box store if he knows what he needs and he may find pieces that a big box store does not sell as well that he could turn into works of art.
Fantastic advice, Thank you. I am growing at a snail's pace because I am unsure as to the proper way to go, or how to do it. Your video has really opened up my eyes to where to begin... Thanks
You are so welcome thank you for your support!
I have but I'll keep trying.
great video man! stumbled across this looking for inspiration and you did NOT disappoint! so thank yo for that and hopefully I can share some projects from lessons learned
You can do it!
Thanks for this… Now I gotta get some masking tape, prior to ordering my machines. Don’t think I’ll need the tool to bed that tape down. 😉😉😂😂
Thank you. You have very helpful information and have given me new goals.
Nice!!!
Thanks for the tips brotha. I started Taylored Products Nov 2022 and it has been a wild ride. I’ve already ran into some of the warnings you give and can attest. My next step is fully professionalizing the operation, getting my website dialed and getting fully on the socials. Thanks again for the encouragement.
Good stuff! Keep at it!!
Great advice!! Only thing I would add is to not be afraid of negative reviews. Customers like to see how you handle projects.
And if something goes wrong. You make it right. Buy a new item to redo etc. that goes a long way
Agreed, lesson can be learned form constructive negative reviews.
All valid advice. Personally me and my brother got a retail space for producing podcasts. Its a lot more expensive and a hassle than it originally seems. You cant exactly shower, sleep, or cook at a retail space so its a lot less convenient. Definitely try doing things at home until you are no longer able to or really feel its worth the investment because you have many clients. Dont expect clients to just appear once you get a retail space, because sure a few people will come, but it won't be enough to make it worth it and you will be tied up into a lease its a big risk.
Well said.!
My business partner and I started a laser business about 6 months ago but we started expanding in far too many directions. We now do sublimation, vinyl, HTV, clothing, hats, tumblers, etc we just recently added custom embroidered patches and 3D printing. If we fail it’s likely cuz we have our fingers in too many pies.
Greetings from the UK, some great advice there. we are looking at a thunder laser for a new Business set up in the new year. Thanks for taking the time & sharing your experience.
Absolulty! and thanks! I hear good things about the Thunder, hit me up via email if you need any other advise when the time comes 👍
@@LaserEngraving911 Thanks again 👍
Wow your last part hit me hard, thanks so much! Great video.
Thank you! That's why I mentioned it! I'm my biggest critic!
Thanks for your perspective.
Always!
Very solid straight forward advice from a guy that i believe, not sure why, i just do!
Thanks for commenting! Appreciate that!