Hi AllStars Family ⭐️
I, MiMoDesignLaserfiles love to make trinkets, trays and scrap friendly projects.
Today, I’m thrilled to share some expert tips on how to take your laser-cut trinkets and trays to the next level. Whether you’re crafting for personal pleasure or for your Etsy shop, these simple techniques will enhance the quality and appearance of your pieces, making them truly stand out.
For a visual tutorial you can check out my new YouTube video:
Upgrade Your DIY Crafts: Advanced Techniques for Laser-Cut Trays and Trinkets! | by MiMoDesign
Here’s a little step by step guide on what I’ll teach you ⭐️
Rounded Edges for a Smooth Finish
One of the easiest ways to elevate the appearance of your laser-cut pieces is by rounding the edges. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also makes the items safer to handle, especially if they’re going to be used frequently. I use a simple handheld sander to gently round the edges both inside and outside of the frame. This can be done effectively with a small piece of sandpaper if you don’t have a sander. Just angle the sandpaper slightly and work around the edges to achieve a smooth, rounded finish.
Fixing Minor Flaws with a Sharpie
Occasionally, the laser might leave small imperfections on your pieces. A quick and easy fix for this is using a Sharpie or similar permanent marker to touch up these spots. The ink blends seamlessly into the material, especially on darker woods, making any blemish virtually disappear. Just apply the Sharpie over the flaw, and you’ll see instant improvement.
Darkening Engravings for Enhanced Contrast
To make the engravings on your trinkets and trays pop, consider darkening them with a bit of stain. I use a water-based gel stain because it’s easy to control and apply. Using a foam brush, dab the stain directly into the engraved areas. This method ensures that the stain seeps into the engravings, providing a richer, darker finish that really makes the details stand out. You can apply multiple layers if necessary to achieve the desired darkness.
Assembling Your Pieces
Assembling your trinkets and trays is straightforward. Apply wood glue to the edges of your base piece and carefully align the top frame before pressing them together. For thicker materials, like the 10 mm plywood I often use, clamps might not be necessary, but they can help ensure a secure, tight bond without any shifting.
Final Touches
Once assembled, you can choose to leave your piece natural or apply a clear coat to protect it and make cleaning easier. This final step is particularly important for items that might be handled frequently or are intended for sale.
By implementing these simple techniques, you can significantly enhance the quality and appearance of your laser-cut projects. If you’re interested in trying these methods or looking for more unique designs, feel free to visit my shop, MiMoDesignLaserFiles
Happy crafting, and I can’t wait to see what amazing projects you’ll create next!
Remember, it’s the small details that make a big difference.