Using a Laser Cutter for Paper Projects!

Lasers are pretty versatile—they’ll cut and engrave materials like wood, fabric, plastic, and glass. But we forget how popular they’ve become for cutting paper and cardstock, too.

Think about how intricate and detailed you can make your one-of-a-kind cards, invitations, and decorations. The possibilities are endless!

For example, a company called Vietnam Handicrafts, based in Hanoi, used an Epilog Zing 16 laser system to create detailed pop-up greeting cards.

Pop-up cards using a laser cutter. Image credit: Epilog Laser

Or, how about Platypus Papers, based near Boulder, Colorado. That company, run by husband-and-wife team, specializes in custom paper creations for weddings and other events. They used an Epilog Mini 24 laser system to create table numbers, cake toppers, name plates, signage and more.

Pretty cool, right?

Figure 1: Platypus Papers used laser cutting and engraving to create the shapes and text design of these place cards; no ink was used. Source: Kristina Lynn Photography

A lot of people, like the duo from Platypus Papers, get started by joining a local Makerspace or signing up for a class. Once they’re hooked, they decide it’s time to get a laser system of their own.

Figure 2: This winter-themed invitation suite from Platypus Papers features a laser-cut snowflake wrap complementing laser-cut and engraved place cards. Source: Season Hurd

What kind of designs can you create? Just start thinking outside of the box. Maybe you want to make something that your guests will open and think: “Wow, I’ve never seen that before."

Figure 3: Platypus Papers used their Epilog laser for cutting and engraving intricate details into this Paris-themed wedding invitation. Source: Studio JK

One tip for getting beyond the rectangular confines of paper: use metal die cuts. However, an Epilog laser system possesses the same functionality, but with a much higher level of detail, adding another dimension to what you can do with paper designs.

Think about even creating your wedding place cards with a laser engraver. Traditional marking methods can be subject to smudging, but using a laser to engrave stone imparts a permanence that turns the piece into a wedding keepsake for guests.

To learn more about how you can create awesome paper designs, visit epiloglaser.com.

For more specific information on Epilog’s laser cut paper projects, click here.