From notebooks to lampshades, at Fluxspace, we work on a lot of projects that utilize our fantastic FLUX Inc. laser cutters. This blog post will serve as a list of Fluxspace’s favorite materials that we use for our many laser cutting projects.

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1. Cardboard

If you walk into the makerspace at Fluxspace, it is likely that you will find us laser cutting with cardboard. We work extensively with cardboard for many reasons, including quick manufacturing time, cost-effectiveness, recyclability, and its lightweight nature. Check out one of our past blog posts: Fun with BirdBrain Motors and Sensors for an example of how we use cardboard with laser cutters to create fun and exciting projects. We suggest you hunt around for cardboard that might get thrown away otherwise. But if you are looking for cardboard with a nicer finish or need it in a hurry, here is a link to a great option: 110 Pack Corrugated Cardboard Sheets.
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2. Plywood

Plywood is another favorite material in our makerspace. It offers great structural properties, making it ideal for projects that require more durability. Plywood is available in various thicknesses which allows for versatility in design and application; however, 1/8th inch is our most used thickness. We often use it for creating boxes, mousetrap cars, and lampshades. Check out a previous blog post where I use plywood to solve a problem! Grab plywood sheets here: 20 Basswood Sheets - 12"x12"x1/8".
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3. Acrylic

Acrylic is perfect for projects where transparency is a design necessity. While most of the acrylic we use is clear, it also comes in a variety of colors, providing lots of possibilities for creative designs. Acrylic is durable and easy to work with, which makes it a great material to have at your disposal. Recently, Lydia, another Fluxspace intern, used acrylic in her awesome LED light stand project. Purchase here: 10 Clear Acrylic Sheets - 8" x 10".
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4. MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard)

MDF is a dense, smooth material that is great for engraving and cutting; MDF is particularly useful for creating finished products. It is also an excellent option for kerf bends (check out a video here). Its smooth texture and lack of grain also make it ideal for detailed work and painting. Purchase MDF here: 24 Pack MDF - 12”x12”x1/8”.
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5. Leather

Leather is one of the more unique laser-cuttable materials on this list; however, when cut, it has some of the most satisfying results. It is versatile and can be used for creating personalized accessories, custom tags, and intricate art pieces. In our makerspace, I have engraved leather-bound notebooks and other accessories. Grab leather here to make your own customized goods: DIY Leather Keychain.
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6. BONUS: Notebooks

Another common project at Fluxspace is laser-engraved notebooks. We often customize notebooks with laser-cut designs, personalized logos, or engravings and give them out as swag when people tour Fluxspace. Here is a great option for your own laser-engraved notebook project: 24 Pack Journals.