Customer Stories from Our Trusted Creators
April Wilkerson
April Wilkerson is a Texas-based DIY enthusiast, woodworker, and metalworker who inspires others to create with their own hands.
Starting her journey in 2013 without prior experience, she quickly became a leading voice in the maker community by sharing her projects through tutorials and videos.
Known for her resourcefulness and dedication, April now co-hosts DIY-focused TV shows and continues to inspire millions with her creative approach to home improvement and craftsmanship.
"I installed an Opt Laser on my ShopSabre and the first thing I noticed was the quality. All components, from the housing to the tiniest screw had the look and feel of precision and durability—like a medical device.
Installation and operation was surprisingly smooth and easy, truly plug and play. But since this was my first laser, I needed advice early on and the guys at Opt were fantastic; responsive, knowledgeable, and always willing to take the time to thoroughly answer my questions. They even answered questions I didn't know to ask!"
Nicky Norton
Nicky Norton is the creator of the Norton Method, the most popular technique for preparing graphic files for laser engraving on various materials, from wood to ceramic tiles and stainless steel.
His work frequently appears in Facebook groups, where it garners immense admiration from the maker community.
"I bought my first Laser 6 years ago Eleksmaker 2.5 watt with the expectation of marking my woodworking projects with a personalized Logo. I was retired and engaged in making wood projects for Family, tables.small items, Mirror frames etc.
I soon realized that with some modifications this 2.5 watt machine could go to another Level in engraving Realistic type images. While performing dozens of experiments and hours of testing I discovered that with certain paints applied to ceramic tiles that the secondary reaction of laser to paint the Ceramic Tile caused a black indelible sinter on the tile surface. This I eventually learned was from the laser heating the TiO2 in the paint. The higher the TiO2 content the blacker the sinter. I started getting incredible results and with consistency.
One of the members in my FB group called it the Norton White Tile Method and the rest is History as I have taught thousands this technique. The following years I started having issues with the Offshore Laser modules dying prematurely (over a dozen). The reason was that during the Covid era supplies and manufacture of diodes were nil and as such the companies started using used diodes from projector arrays and as such poorly made Laser units were all that was available.
Then I saw a few postings of fantastic engravings with people using the Opt Lasers PL3D-XT-50 6 watt. I reached out to Opt Lasers and in short time I had one. As soon as I unboxed it I realized that this was a High Quality Crafted precision Module. Some teething pains connecting it to my Laser machine were quickly overcome with the Fantastic support I received from Opt Lasers support via messaging/e-mails/ and Zoom calls. The precision and accuracy of this laser with a beam of 30 x50 microns (incredibly high laser fluence) soon proved to be unmatchable in the quality of engravings I was able to achieve.
Overall, working with Opt Lasers products and support staff has been a very positive experience and has renewed my enthusiasm in the use of Diode engraving."
Jim Neeb
Jim has been a supporter of Opt Lasers from nearly the very beginning, both on his YouTube channel, JNWoodworks, and in the official group for Opt Lasers product users.
He perfectly demonstrates his knowledge of laser engraving and cutting, answering even the most intricate questions while presenting his insights in a visually and audibly appealing manner.
"I am a retired engineer and 45-year woodworker. I first bought a CNC router to add a new dimension to my woodworking where I can make very precise parts and graphical designs in wood and other materials. I soon discovered lasers after that and wanted to add that dimension to my CNC. My first foray into lasers was a small, cheap diode laser, and this was a disappointing experience. The power and quality of this device was poor.
So I went on a search for a higher power unit, and one that was more of an industrial quality that I was used to in my other tools. That is when I discovered Opt Lasers. I started with the PLH3D-15W. This laser was easy to mount on my large CNC router, giving me much more X-Y working area than a typical CO2 laser. Since it is also able to mark steel/stainless steel/titanium, etch stone materials, and cut/etch any organic materials, this has brought so much more capability to my shop.
Since these laser heads can be mounted on the same CNC machine as my spindle, I can use the same CAD/CAM software to design my projects and build Gcode, which makes it very easy to combine features of the router and laser together on the same project. I build a lot of custom signs, boxes, and other things with carved lettering and/or laser engraving. The laser is a perfect complement because it can deeply engrave wood, but unlike the router, it can make perfectly square corners which really makes the font pop.
I have been able to incorporate stone, ceramic tile, and metal components as well since the laser can uniquely engrave those materials as well. I can also cut very intricate items like wood earrings, or very thin flexible materials like cloth, and light paper that really can't be cut any other way. With a laser, I am able to create logos and text in wood that are smaller and more detailed than any other method.
Opt Lasers is the ONLY diode laser company that I recommend because there really aren't any other companies with products even close to their level of quality and customer service. I can say that with confidence through my own experience as well as the feedback I get from my YouTube viewer contacts around the world."
Kris Crawford
Kris Crawford is a Canadian maker and content creator known for his woodworking and metalworking projects. Under the moniker Further North Fabrication, he shares his creative journey on platforms like Instagram and YouTube.
In 2021, Kris integrated an Opt Lasers engraving module into his workshop, enhancing his ability to produce intricate designs on various materials. This addition has been instrumental in both his personal projects and his mortgage business, where he crafts personalized gifts for clients, leaving a lasting impression.
Kris's dedication to his craft and his willingness to share knowledge have made him a respected figure in the maker community. His work continues to inspire others to explore the possibilities of laser engraving and fabrication.
"In 2021, I got my first Opt Lasers engraving module, and it quickly became an indispensable tool in my workshop. From the outset, I was impressed with its reliability and exceptional build quality. It was clear that Opt Lasers had designed a product that could withstand the demands of regular use while consistently delivering precise and professional results.
Integrating the laser with my modified X-Carve CNC was a seamless process, and it has since elevated the capabilities of my setup. The precision and versatility of the Opt Lasers module have been a game-changer for my DIY projects, allowing me to create intricate designs and add detailed engravings to a variety of materials. Whether I’m working on wood, acrylic, or metal, the laser delivers outstanding results every time.
Beyond personal projects, the laser has also proven invaluable for my mortgage business. I use it to craft personalized gifts for clients, such as custom-engraved cutting boards, coasters, and plaques. These thoughtful, unique gifts leave a lasting impression and reflect the level of care I aim to bring to every aspect of my business. The reliability of the laser ensures that I can meet deadlines without worrying about equipment issues.
Overall, my experience with Opt Lasers has been nothing short of excellent. The combination of build quality, reliability, and precision makes it an essential tool in both my creative and professional endeavors. It’s a purchase I’ve never regretted, and it continues to exceed my expectations."