FAB25: Laser Cutting Hacks

Laser cutting hacks and helpers feat. FabLabs FabLabs and makerspaces are the homes of makers – places that provide access to tools, share knowledge, and build communities. From students and hobbyists to professionals and educators, they welcome anyone eager to learn, experiment, and bring ideas to life through digital fabrication. Never heard of a FabLab or makerspace? Now’s the perfect time to explore your surroundings and find one here – you might just discover your new favorite place to make, learn, and hack! FAB25 FAB25 Czechia is this year’s global gathering of the FabLab and maker community – a week-long celebration of digital fabrication, collaboration, and open knowledge. From July 4–11, hundreds of makers, FabLabs, makerspaces, STEM educators, digital fabrication experts, artists, and inventors from around the world will come together in Prusa’s home country for keynotes by renowned speakers, hands-on and theoretical workshops, talks, showcases, art exhibitions, a one-of-a-kind maker train ride, and of course – Prusa Day! The best entries may even be featured at FAB25 Czechia, the global FabLab event taking place in Prusa’s home country from July 4–11, where Prusa is proudly the general partner! Check out more at the official event site or save the Printables event to your profile now. One of the most beloved machines in any FabLab? The laser cutter! Fast, precise, and incredibly versatile, laser cutters are used daily for prototyping, signage, model-making and much more. But to truly get the most out of them, makers rely on clever tools – printable add-ons that simplify setup, improve safety, organize materials, and make laser workflows smoother and more efficient. Common Laser Cutting Challenges – and How You Can Solve Them Here are some real-world challenges from FabLabs and makerspaces that can be solved with clever, 3D-printable tools.  Holding down lasered materials (flat as well as oddly shaped): Laser bed pins, magnetic material clamps, low-profile corner jigs Preventing flashback and burn marks: Cutting bed upgrades, mesh supports, custom honeycomb feet Improving exhaust and air assist systems: Hose adapters, vent covers and plugs, air assist mounts or guides Organizing laser accessories and maintenance kits: Trays or wall mounts for focus tools, veneer calipers, tape rolls or cleaning supplies Managing materials and leftovers: Stackable material holders (plywood, acrylic, cardboard), offcut sorters, size template tools Cleaning and maintenance: Specialized cleaning tools for vents or laser beds Post-processing cut pieces: Mini sanding jigs, part holders for finishing edges Helping others learn: Training aids, demo models, visual safety guides Spare or replacement parts: Focus tools for different lenses or material thicknesses Workshop signage: Safety rules or settings signage, quick-start guides A few Printables examples Laser Magnetic Material Hold-Downs Magnetic Hold Down for Laser Cutters Magnetic Fume System for xTool M1 Laser Cutter Clip Clamp Honeycomb Laser Cutter – Pince pour table Got your own idea? Add it and join the challenge! Your model should be: Practical and usable with common desktop laser cutters (CO₂, diode, etc.). Easy to print on standard FDM printers. Durable enough for workshop use. Bonus points for customizable, parametric designs! .left-align { text-align: left !important; }