ABOUT THE SERVICE
Laser cutting – let us do it, or make it yourself
We cut it for you. Send your design, quantity, material details and deadline for a quote. Want to supply your own material? Ask us to check its suitability before sending or bringing it in.
Make it yourself. Book machine time at our East London workshop, with an induction for first-time users. Explore DIY laser cutting below or book a DIY session.
How it works
DIY laser cutting at our workshop
Use our laser cutters to make your own models, signage and prototypes. Read the material guidance and watch the induction videos below before booking.
Book DIY machine time · Need hands-on help? Book an expert consultation
Step 1
Step 1
Select a laser machine
Select laser machine
Choose "Laser Cutting" in Bookings to check machine availability. If it's your first time, be sure to book a free induction beforehand.
Choose "Laser Cutting" in Bookings to check machine availability. If it's your first time, be sure to book a free induction beforehand.
Step 2
Step 2
Select a date & time
Select a date & time
Choose from the available dates and times.
Use PayPal for payment, either with your account or as a guest with a card. You will receive a confirmation email with your booking details.
Step 3
Step 3
Make a payment
Make a payment
An invoice will be sent to you for payment. Once payment is received you will receive a confirmation email with your booking details.
Choose from the available dates and times. If you need more than an hour, select "+Add More Bookings" after entering your information.
Step 4
Step 4
Confirm booking
Confirm booking
Arrive 5 minutes early for setup and enjoy your session.
Arrive 5 minutes early for setup. Bring your materials or let us know if you need us to order them for you. Ensure your file is in .DXF format on a USB drive.
DIY machine hire from £40/hour + VAT
Work area upto 1200X900mm
Induction Videos
Choose the relevant machine below and watch the induction video to understand safe operation, material requirements and how to prepare your files before booking.
DIY - Large Laser Cutting
Bring larger and more ambitious designs to life using our large DIY laser cutter. With a spacious 1200mm × 900mm bed, it is suitable for detailed designs, larger components and batch production.
The machine can cut, etch and engrave, with engraving speeds of up to 200mm/sec* and support for acrylic up to 5mm thick.
Watch the induction video to understand the process, safety requirements and how to prepare your project before booking a session.
*Engraving speed may vary depending on the material, design and machine settings.
DIY - Small Laser Cutting
Create detailed designs and quick prototypes using our small DIY laser cutter. With a 600mm × 300mm bed, it is ideal for smaller projects and intricate work.
The machine can cut, etch and engrave, with engraving speeds of up to 200mm/sec* and support for acrylic up to 5mm thick.
Watch the induction video to understand the process, safety requirements and how to prepare your project before booking a session.
DIY - Large Laser Cutting
Bring larger and more ambitious designs to life using our large DIY laser cutter. With a spacious 1200mm × 900mm bed, it is suitable for detailed designs, larger components and batch production.
The machine can cut, etch and engrave, with engraving speeds of up to 200mm/sec* and support for acrylic up to 5mm thick.
Watch the induction video to understand the process, safety requirements and how to prepare your project before booking a session.
*Engraving speed may vary depending on the material, design and machine settings.
DIY - Small Laser Cutting
Create detailed designs and quick prototypes using our small DIY laser cutter. With a 600mm × 300mm bed, it is ideal for smaller projects and intricate work.
The machine can cut, etch and engrave, with engraving speeds of up to 200mm/sec* and support for acrylic up to 5mm thick.
Watch the induction video to understand the process, safety requirements and how to prepare your project before booking a session.
Materials we work with
What can you cut with us?
We offer cutting and engraving services for various materials including paper, fabric, acrylics, and plywood. Note that certain plastics like PolyPropylene Foam and HDPE are not compatible with laser cutting. If you're uncertain about the material you plan to cut, please contact us before making a booking.
Plywood
Plywood
We use laser safe plywood which has a low content of formaldehyde.
Cardboard and paper
Cardboard and Paper
Traditionally used in model making, any variety of cardboard and paper can be laser cut.
bio-polymers sheets and acrylic
Bio-Polymer Sheets and Acrylic
Acrylic responds excellently to laser cutting, yielding a clean edge and finish. It is available in a variety of colors.
Natural Fabric
Natural Fabric
From cotton to denim, and even untreated leather, we can laser cut a variety of natural materials to fit your specific needs.
Unsure whether your material can be laser cut? Tell us its composition and thickness before booking or sending it. We will review suitability with you.
Client Testimonail
"I’ve been running my business for nearly nine years, and although I had some experience with laser cutting before, every time I come here, I learn so much. Using the machines can be tricky, but the team is always incredibly helpful, guiding me through the process. This is a fantastic place to start if you want to fabricate something, whether it's 2D or 3D they will help you every step of the way."
— Akiko, Japanese Artist Based in London
NEED HELP
LASER CUTTING FAQs
How can I book a machine?
Just select a machine and time slot in our Bookings page and make a payment and you will receive a confirmation email to confirm your booking.
What if I need more time on the machine?
Please check with us to see if the next available slot is free. Otherwise, you will need to rebook for another time.
What payments do you accept?
When you book online, we use PayPal or credit/debit cards are accepted.
What is your cancellation policy?
You can only cancel 24 hours before your booking time. Any later your payment will be forfeited.
Can I book over the weekend?
Please contact us if you wish to book over the weekend, we may be able to cater for the times over the weekend.
Which file formats do you except?
Your file must be exported in .DXF format or PDF. Only vector artwork is accepted by the machine's operating software, and your file must not contain grouped geometry or compound paths. Any fills/hatches can be removed as the software accepts lines and curves only. You can differentiate between cutting and engraving using different layers in your file. If possible, send us your file in advance of your visit so we can check it is set up correctly.
Notice: File Review Requirement
A minimum of 3 days notice is required for file reviews. We cannot guarantee reviews with less notice.
Will I need an induction course?
Yes, everyone who uses the Fab.Pub machine for the very first time will be required to get an initial 15 mins induction, you can find this in our bookings page.
Do I need to bring my own materials for laser cutting?
Yes, you will need to bring your own. We will only accept the suitable laser cutting materials. Please refer to the material list.
How do I send my file to the laser cutter?
Please bring your files on a USB drive.
I’m not sure how long I should book the machine for, what is the average time?
For laser cutting, the time needed varies based on the complexity of your design and the material’s thickness. Cutting and etching follow the shape directly, so they’re usually faster. However, engraving takes considerably longer. Most projects typically take around 2-3 hours, and you can add more time if needed, provided additional booking slots are available.
Schedule a consultation with a Fab.Pub Expert today!
Book your Fab.Pub experience today!