5 Unusual Glass Etching Ideas That Will Make You Rethink Your Laser Engraver’s Capabilities

Time to Rethink

The world of CO2 laser engraving is beaming with possibilities and endless creativity as we know it. Thanks to the hundreds of maker communities and various forums sharing their creations, hobbyists and professionals alike have access to an abundance of laser engraving project ideas. To better navigate the seemingly endless expanse of creative designs, we wanted to showcase some of the more unique and unusual glass etching ideas. After working through tons of projects, we boiled our list down to the top five unusual glass CO2 laser engraving projects that will make you rethink the capabilities of your machine.

To determine what we have considered the top five unusual glass CO2 laser engraver projects, we’ve considered the following criteria to make our decision:

• Unique and uncommon characteristics
• Usability: Is there still good use for this unusual application?
• Benefit: Will readers gain benefit from learning about the project?

We are sure that by the end of this article you will have a few new ideas to get the most of your CO2 laser engraving machine.

1. Personalized Holiday Ornament

 

If you’re looking for a great way to get into the holiday spirit while also putting your machine to use, why not try a holiday-inspired glass engraved ornament! Hobbyists and professionals alike have found many uses for creating holiday-inspired projects. First off, if you’re a small business focusing on custom CO2 laser engraving projects, this could be that perfect addition to your portfolio. Custom laser engraved ornaments might be exactly what your customers are looking for as they begin to decorate for the holiday season. Alternatively, maybe you are looking for that perfect gift to give a loved one. Using your CO2 laser engraving to capture a memory or picture in a glass ornament can be the perfect way to show that special person how much you care. If neither of these applications seem to fit, a custom engraved glass ornament can portray a prized pet, commemorate a friendship, show appreciation for your teacher, congratulate a coworker, or even memorialize a family member. So much more than a holiday decoration, a customized glass ornament will remind that recipient of your high regard every holiday season. 

2. Personalized Keychain

There are truly hundreds of great ideas out there when it comes to personalized keychains. With so many different styles and applications you can engrave on such as wood and leather, we'll primarily focus on glass keychains. Personalized glass keychains can have so many different avenues of creativity, but a fan-favorite is engraving. Capturing a picture of a loved one in a custom engraved glass pendant key chain is a great way to be reminded of them throughout your day. Now, if a picture of a loved one doesn't quite fit the bill, we have another great project idea for you. Whether you’re a big time Jeep enthusiast, or just can’t get enough of your Acura, immortalizing your vehicle on a uniquely custom-designed glass pendant can be the perfect way to express the appreciation you have for your car. What better shows your enthusiasm and appreciation for your unique ride than a one-of-a-kind laser-engraved glass pendant? You can read a quick DIY of engraving keychains on a desktop model here.

3. Personalized Dog Treat Jar 

 

Do you have a special furry friend that deserves a treat every now and then? Well this could be a great glass etching idea for you! We’ve seen many maker projects that encompass something pet-related or pet-friendly, but we think this one really stands out! By adding a fun pet-related quote, or personalize the treat jar with your pet's name, you can transform a boring non-descript treat jar into something truly special. Now if there isn’t an immediate need for this in your own home, consider gifting this to a friend or family member who has a beloved pet in their home. They will be sure to think of you every time they use that thoughtful personalized treat jar.

4. Glass Engraved Paperweight

  

This one we think you’ll have a lot of fun with. Do you have a special someone in your life, or a special moment you’d like to be reminded of throughout the day? What better way to show that person you care or commemorate that special moment than with a picture engraved glass paperweight. This classic piece can act as a staple of any office setting by simultaneously assisting in organizing important papers while also acting as a great commemorative piece. Just like these other examples, a personalized laser engraved paperweight can be a great gift to a loved one! This can be a perfect way for that loved one to be reminded of you, or a special moment you both share throughout their workday.

5. Personalized Tic Tac Toe

 

With access to hundreds of thousands of games through your smartphone, you may have forgotten about the time-honored game that’s been played for generations, Tic Tac Toe. Here’s a great way to put down that smartphone and revitalize the classic contest by creating a custom glass engraved tic tac toe game board. This is truly a great project for those new to CO2 laser engraving or for the seasoned CO2 laser engravers, and a great way to get hours of fun out of a CO2 laser engraver. So, set this on your coffee table and watch as you and family members turn off the tv and engage in family-fun games together. 

Conclusion

With thousands of exciting and creative glass etching ideas out there, we hope these five projects stand out from the rest, inspiring you to go above and beyond with your work. If you are seeking help or advice with these projects, we offer technical support and training and installation to your engraving needs. These resources and more can provide never-ending help in bringing your creative ideas to reality! In conclusion, we hope this article has given you some great new ideas for future projects! Be sure to check out our other related articles in our brand-new Resource-Hub, if you’d like to read up on other laser engraver related topics. 

Author Bio

Dalton Hirst studied Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Arizona. After receiving his degree he has worked in various organizations as a Software / Systems Engineer. Dalton enjoys being active in the maker community and using his technical background to work on fun creative CO2 laser engraving projects.