GlowforgeSpark Laser Engraver for Crafts and DIY, Craft Cutter and Engraving Machine

The media could not be loaded. I was so excited to receive my Glowforge Spark and begin using it for projects. The set up was very easy, you get step by step instructions on how to unbox it, how to set up the exhaust, how to connect it to WiFi, etc. I was able to use the step by step instructions to make my first cut and from there I was able to start adding projects from their catalog into my designs in the Glowforge website. I ended up making mandala earrings and a cutout Doodle Dog Car Charm.I have used a Cricut Maker in the past for cutting projects, like making decals for cars and home decor, stickers and other inserts for my planner, and iron on vinyl for t-shirts. I like that the Spark is specifically made for cutting thicker materials (compared to the projects that I have used my Maker for), and I don't have to keep replacing blades like I would need to on the Cricut. I also like that I don't need to have a cutting mat like I do for my Cricut.The Glowforge Proofgrade materials make it super easy for a beginner to be successful in making projects. I used the Proofgrade Cherry that came with my Glowforge to make the dog charm, and I purchased Proofgrade Basswood at JoAnns for the Mandala earrings that I made. I plan on getting their Proofgrade Acrylic to cut Stanley lid toppers, Christmas ornaments, mini milk crates, bookmarks, and more earrings! I am looking forward to learning how to use the Glowforge website some more so I can make my own designs for more personalized projects.If you are ready to level up from a Cricut like I was, I definitely recommend the Spark as an entry level machine, especially if you want to cut things like wood and acrylic without having to regularly replace cutting blades like you would for the Cricut.

Not easy to use. No customer service help whatsoever. You can’t even use a simple text box to engrave unless you commit to a membership with them that’s paid monthly or annually. Total rip off save your money. Don’t buy this.

I wish three was more information on how to use it i had to go on you tube to find out how to set it up and use

I was very excited to get my Glowforge Spark in the mail. I’ve been a long time creative and previously used a Cricut machine for paper and vinyl cutouts. Using a laser cutting tool takes these projects to the next level with the ability to cut or engrave wood, acrylic, leather, etc. This truly makes the possibilities endless.The setup was user friendly out of the box with step-by-step video instructions from unboxing to connecting the filter (I purchased this separately) and syncing with the wifi. I saw other reviewers had difficulty with this step, but I ran into no issues.For my first project, I made a small dog tag and ornament for my parent’s new dog, Louie, out of the Proofgrade Cherry Plywood that came with the machine. The laser cut and engraved the wood with no issues. There was a bit of trial and error with customizing the design, but it was similar enough to the Cricut Design Space layers that it did not give me too much trouble. There are plenty of YouTube videos to help assist as well. I’m looking forward to working with leather for bracelets and Christmas ornaments.I’ll return for an update after I’ve had a chance to test out other materials and make new things, but overall, I’ve had a great experience with my Glowforge and highly recommend.

I've been tinkering with this and so far, I like this machine a lot. Being fully enclosed, I don't have to worry about air leaks or buying anything to make an enclosure and it comes with almost everything you need to vent it out the window. You will want to cut a board, piece of acrylic or polycarbonate to fit the window and the included hose and then duck tape around it to seal it and hold everything in place for a very basic set up.The fan is pretty quiet and so is the machine. Both work as I expected and I'm impressed with the detail capabilities of this laser. Yes, it's slower than the higher end counter parts, but, it works great for hobbyists as intended. I'm really loving the camera which makes lining up the design on your material so much easier than without one. I've ran keychains and wood boards through it without issue. It can cut copy paper and cardstock but scoring is not something it's great at but no biggie for me.Another plus and minus is the software. You don't have to buy software for it, but, to use all of the features requires a subscription which can be pricey for a lot of people. For some, it's worth it. I'm on the fence about whether I want to do it. You do get a discount on supplies which is useful if you plan to use their stuff. And, if the free sample of cherry wood is any indication, they provide good quality materials to buy. You also get access to a lot of designs for free with it, which might actually make it worth it if you plan to use them. They do offer a lot of very nice project designs. It's not difficult to learn this machine and a lot of the guesswork is taken out so it's great for beginners. It's also easy to clean the honeycomb plate with hot soapy water so cleanup is a snap.Overall, it's not a bad little machine and takes up less space than many others. I'd recommend this to beginners and hobbyists for sure. It's a good beginners laser.

The Spark was easy to set up and start creating within minutes of opening the box. My son wanted to combine his two favorite things for our first creation--Pikachu and chocolate :)I downloaded the Pikachu outline to my computer, taped the chocolate within the glowforge and hit the start button on the glowforge--minutes later I had the Pikachu chocolate.

I got the glowforge so excited to use it only to find out it wouldn't ever connect to wifi I tried for hours, so I returned it and it has taken over 2 weeks and I still have not received my refund. They said when they receive the product the refund will be issued they received it but I'm still waiting for the refund to be credited to my account.