Diode Laser Cutting 101: How They Work and What You Can Cut

What Is a Diode Laser?

A diode laser is a compact, efficient type of laser that converts electricity directly into light using semiconductor technology. You’ll often see these in desktop machines from brands like xTool, Ortur, Sculpfun, and Atomstack. These lasers usually operate in the blue/violet light range (around 445–455nm wavelength), making them ideal for engraving and cutting certain materials—especially when you pair them with the right products like our Craft Closet laser-ready acrylics.

Unlike CO₂ lasers (which use gas tubes and mirrors), diode lasers are solid-state devices: more affordable, smaller, and easier to maintain. That makes them a fantastic choice for hobbyists, small business owners, and crafters who want pro-quality results without a giant investment.

How Do Diode Lasers Work?

At their core, diode lasers emit a focused beam of light by exciting electrons inside a semiconductor chip. That beam is then passed through a lens system to concentrate it even further. The result? A high-intensity laser spot that can burn, melt, or vaporize certain materials depending on power and exposure time.

Most modern diode lasers fall in the 5W to 20W optical output range, with higher-wattage modules capable of cutting through thicker materials like 3mm–5mm acrylic and basswood.

What Can You Cut or Engrave with a Diode Laser?

Here’s a quick guide to what diode lasers can handle:

✅ Materials You Can Engrave:

• Wood (basswood, birch, oak, MDF)

• Acrylic (for engraving: both cast and extruded)

• Leather (natural, veg-tan)

• Anodized aluminum

• Painted/coated metals

• Glass (with a coating or tempering method)

• Slate and stone

• Paper, cardboard, chipboard

✅ Materials You Can Cut:

• Craft Closet Laser Acrylic (specially designed for diode lasers)

• Basswood and birch plywood (1/8" or 3mm is ideal)

• Cardboard and chipboard

• Leather (thin, natural)

• Paper and cardstock

• Some fabrics (always test for safety)

❌ Materials You Can't Cut:

• Clear acrylic (it reflects blue/violet light and won’t absorb the laser)

• PVC or vinyl (emits toxic chlorine gas)

• Polycarbonate (poor results, toxic fumes)

• Metals (you can engrave coated ones, but not cut them)

Pro Tip: Diode lasers work best with opaque, darker-colored acrylics that absorb blue light. That's why Craft Closet offers a curated line of acrylics optimized for diode laser compatibility.

Key Tips for Success with a Diode Laser

1. Use Air Assist: A small air pump helps blow away smoke and debris, resulting in cleaner cuts and less burning.

2. Focus Properly: Most diode lasers use manual focus by adjusting the height of the laser head. Always follow your machine’s instructions and use a focus gauge if provided.

3. Secure Your Material: Use honeycomb beds, magnets, or weights to prevent shifting.

4. Test Settings First: Power, speed, and number of passes vary by material, thickness, and laser wattage. Start with test cuts!

5. Ventilation Is Critical: Always work in a well-ventilated space or use an exhaust system, especially when cutting plastics or woods.

Why Craft Closet Acrylic Works Best

At Craft Closet, we test every sheet of acrylic we sell to ensure it's laser-compatible—especially with diode lasers. Our colors are specially chosen to work with the blue-violet wavelength, meaning better cuts, fewer passes, and less cleanup.

Whether you're cutting 1/8" opaque acrylic or engraving text on a translucent color, you’ll get consistent results with less trial and error.

Ready to Get Started?

Explore our full line of laser-ready acrylics and browse our growing library of project files, cut settings, and how-to guides. Whether you're making earrings, nameplates, or LED signs, Craft Closet is here to help you laser better.