FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What's the Laser Cutter Cafe?

The Laser Cutter Cafe is a cafe that has laser cutters. Come make something and have some tea while you're at it.

What's a laser cutter?

Laser cutters are computer controlled lasers that cut and etch precise patterns into a wide range of materials. The machine itself looks like something between a photocopier and printer.

What can you make with a laser cutter?

The possibilities are endless. People have made business cards, postcards, invitations, tags, toys, games, models, signs, lamps, pendant lights, jewelry, boxes, enclosures, lifestyle accessories, chairs, clothes, bags, shoes, etc.

Can you cut metal?

No, our lasers aren't powerful enough to cut metal, but we can etch onto metal if it's anondized or coated with Thermark.

What materials can be laser cut?

Wood, cardboard, paper, acrylic, rubber, food, leather, cotton, wool, cork, felt, and polyester up to 1/4" thick can be cut. In addition to those materials, glass, ceramic, metals, and stone can be etched. We carry most of these materials in the cafe. PVC and vinyl are not allowed in the laser cutter since they release phosgene (a.k.a. chlorine gas) when burned.

Can you bring in your own materials?

Yes, although we reserve the right to reject any material for safety concerns. For example, if we don't know what the material it is, we will not allow it to be lasered. We also do not make any guarantees about the cut quality of customer-sourced materials.

Where is the Laser Cutter Cafe?

We're at MakerLabs: 780 East Cordova Street.

When are you open?

We're open from noon to 9pm, Wednesday through Sunday.

How safe are laser cutters?

Very - our laser cutters are safer than microwaves. And there are numerous mechanisms and processes to prevent you from burning or blinding yourself.

And you actually get to use them?

Yup! That's what they'll be there for: do-it-yourself laser cutting. We'll be right there to answer any questions you have.

How does it all work?

If you just want something laser cut, we can do it for you, or you can take a class and do it yourself. Our class schedule is available here.

How much does laser cutting cost?

Take a look at our pricing.

Why laser cutters?

Laser cutters are awesome tools, but they're not very easy to find or to get access to. The mission of the Laser Cutter Cafe is to increase accessibility to laser cutters and other awesome tools, and to build a community around making the world more awesome.

What laser cutters do you have?

Our lasers are made by Full Spectrum Laser. Will be two 45W laser cutters with a 20" by 12" (50cm by 30cm) work area, and one 120W laser cutter with a 3' by 2' (90cm by 60cm) work area.

In additon to laser cutters, we have 3D printers, CNC routers, 3D printers, a textiles lab, an electronics bay, a woodshop, and much more tools.

What classes and workshops are offered?

Take a look at our class schedule.

Do you offer contract laser cutting and fabrication?

Yes. Here are the details for our fabrication services.