From a small studio in Egypt to customers across the U.S., digital artist and laser engraver Mark (L'Art Pieces) shares how the LaserPecker LP5 helped him grow his creative business and reach new audiences—without a factory or big machines.
Starting Out: From Graphics to Grayscale Engraving
“My design journey started in college, back in 2005,” Mark recalls. “I was doing part-time Photoshop work, which gave me a solid creative base.”
Later, while working as an engineer in Qatar from 2015 to 2023, he found inspiration in the diverse cultures he encountered. That experience planted the seed for what would become his unique artistic voice—one that blends heritage, symbolism, and storytelling.
In 2023, Mark moved back to Egypt. With time on his hands, he picked up a 10W diode laser “just to try something new.” The pieces were well-received, especially thanks to his sister, who handled sales. That spark quickly became a full creative project.
Why He Chose Digital Files Over Physical Products
“Selling physical products wasn't sustainable,” Mark explains. “Especially in Egypt, where prices are low and competition is fierce. Shipping to the U.S. ate up most of my profit.”
He tried Etsy with some success, but soon realized the smarter path was selling digital files—grayscale engravings optimized for all types of lasers.
“That's when things changed,” Mark says. “I can create one design and sell it a hundred times. And it's more affordable for buyers too.”
How the LaserPecker LP5 Changed His Workflow
Before discovering the LaserPecker LP5, Mark worked primarily with CO₂ lasers. But he needed something more flexible—and compact.
“The LP5 gave me something I didn't have before: portability and precision,” he says. “Having both the diode and fiber modules in one machine—it's like having a full workshop on my desk.”
That dual-laser capability opened the door to engraving on metal, glass, wood, and more. “I was finally able to test all my files in-house, on any material my customers might use.”
Mark even created a 3D engraving of the LP5 itself—“kind of a tribute,” he laughs.
A Facebook Community That Changed Everything
Early on, Mark promoted his files in laser engraving Facebook groups. It worked—until it didn't.
“Some admins started banning my posts,” he says. “Competitors mass-reported me, some even copied my work.”
So Mark took matters into his own hands and built his own community: 3D Illusion Laser Engraving Designs by L'Art Pieces.
“That group changed everything. I had control. I could connect directly with laser users and offer help, previews, feedback—it's where I built real trust.”
The group now has over 6,500 members, many of whom are also LaserPecker users.
Advice for Aspiring Creators
Mark regularly gives advice to beginners in his Facebook group. Here are some of his top tips:
- “Don't just download random files and hit 'go.' Test. Adjust. Refine.”
- “Show people real engraved photos—not just renders. That builds trust.”
- “If you're using the LP5, remember to start simple. Try grayscale PNGs first, and learn how your materials react.”
- “Ask for help. Join communities. Share your work. That's how you grow.”
- “Focus on the U.S. market if you're looking to sell. That's where the demand is—and the LP5 makes it easy to engrave and ship even from Egypt.”
Using the LP5 to Create High-Impact Designs
Mark specializes in 3D Illusion Engraving—grayscale PNGs designed for deep, detailed output. Many of his designs feature cultural or religious symbolism, including Pharaonic, Christian, and Veteran-themed motifs.
“One of my customers asked for a Father's Day piece with a U.S. veteran theme. That led me to start designing more for that audience. The LP5's precision really brings those ideas to life.”
He engraves every new file on the LP5 before listing it online.
Going Global from Egypt
Today, Mark runs his Etsy store from his studio in Egypt, selling exclusively to U.S. buyers. Thanks to the portability of the LP5 and his laser-focused design niche, he's found a sweet spot in the crowded engraving world.
“You don't need a big factory to do this,” he says. “You just need the right machine and the right mindset.”
Want to Connect with Mark?
You can find Mark's designs and files at:
Etsy: L'Art Pieces
Facebook Group: 3D Illusion Laser Engraving Designs by L'Art Pieces
Mark is always open to collaborations and happy to support the creative laser community.
Wrapping Up
Have a story to share about your journey with LaserPecker? We'd love to hear from you! Send us your experience to marketing@laserpecker.com – your story might get featured in our next post!
