Thinking about starting a laser engraving side hustle? Meet Mia—a creative entrepreneur who turned her passion into profit using the LaserPecker LP2. In just 22 hours, she engraved 400 wine glasses and earned over $4,000—but that's only one chapter in her evolving journey.
From Sicily with Skill: How It All Began
Mia, a Danish designer living in Sicily, never planned to sit still for long. While raising her son, she realized she needed something that gave her purpose and creativity beyond the walls of her home:
“I knew that I couldn't just be a stay-at-home mom. I had to do something.”
She began with vinyl cutting for local customers but soon discovered laser engraving in early 2021. Her first machine? A hefty 80W CO₂ laser. Within three months, she had it paid off, thanks to her knack for shifting from American-themed products to charming, Sicilian-style souvenirs that resonated with her surroundings.
But while the big machine got the job done, it wasn't always practical. That's where the compact and portable LaserPecker LP2 came in.
A Big Win with a Small Machine
One of Mia's most memorable projects came in 2022: a large order from a local U.S. military base for their Navy Ball.
“They wanted 400 red wine glasses engraved. I had never done that many before, but I figured it out.”
She used the LaserPecker LP2 and its electric roller to handle the curved surface of each glass. After fine-tuning her process and teaming up with her husband (who cleaned the glasses after each engraving), they got into a steady rhythm.
- Each glass took about 3 minutes.
- The full job took 22 hours.
- She charged for both the retail glasses and the engraving service.
“Those 400 glasses earned me over $4,000. That project alone covered the LP2 many times over.”
That experience not only proved the machine's capabilities, but also validated laser engraving as a serious income stream.
Scaling Beyond Physical Products
As Mia's skills grew, so did her business model. Rather than only focusing on physical goods, she leaned into the digital space.
“Not everyone wants to design. Some people just want something quick that looks good and works.”
She began creating SVG files and laser-ready templates, which she sold on Etsy. With over 36,000 digital files sold, this passive income became a powerful second stream.
She was also thoughtful about her audience. Early on, she realized her original focus on American holidays and slogans was too narrow.
“I started designing more European and neutral themes. It helped me reach more people.”
This shift broadened her appeal and led to more sustainable sales across multiple countries.
Why the LP2 Became Her Go-To
Despite owning several machines, Mia often turns to the LaserPecker LP2 when she needs speed, precision, and portability.
“The roller on the LP2 is so much easier than setting up a rotary on a big gantry laser. I used it for the wine glass project because it just made sense.”
Why the LP2 Works for Her:
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to set up on the go
- Electric roller simplifies engraving curved items
- Clean results even on delicate materials like glass
“If you're a crafter, especially working with tumblers, glasses, or personalized gifts, LP2 is an amazing choice.”
Sharing Knowledge with the Community
Mia isn't just focused on her own growth—she's passionate about helping others get started. She runs a growing Facebook group where she shares her experience and guides new makers.
Here are some of her best tips:
1. Master Your Machine Settings
“Once you have your golden settings under control, focus on making things clean and polished.”
Keep a material log. Run tests. And aim for quality from the start.
2. Clean Work Wins
“I see people trying to sell stuff with burn marks or sticky residue. Customers notice that.”
Finish your products well. Sand, seal, or paint if needed.
3. Don't Fear Mistakes
“The first ones might be rough. That's okay. You learn by doing.”
Every scrap piece is a chance to get better.
4. Build Your Tribe
“If you're helpful and transparent, people will follow you.”
Join communities. Ask questions. Share progress. The support you give will come back.
5. Start with What You Love
“Most of my designs started from something I needed myself.”
If it solves your problem, it'll probably help someone else too.
How You Can Get Started
Inspired by Mia? Here's how you can follow a similar path:
Step 1: Pick the Right Tool
Start with a reliable diode laser like the LaserPecker LP2 or the upgraded LP5. They're beginner-friendly and great for personalization.
Step 2: Design or Source What Sells
Whether it's wine glasses, pet tags, or digital files—find a niche you can stick with.
Step 3: Show Your Work
Use Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok to show time-lapses, final products, or tips. People buy what they see and trust.
Step 4: Keep Going
It's not about perfection on Day 1. Like Mia, build a routine, learn the tools, and keep improving.
Why Mia's Story Matters
What makes Mia's journey stand out isn't just the $4,000 order. It's her willingness to adapt, learn, and share. From a simple idea in her Sicilian home, she grew into a digital product seller, a glass engraver, a community leader—and a reminder that small lasers can lead to big wins.
“You don't have to be perfect. Just keep learning. That's how I did it.”
Start Your Laser Story Today
Whether you're a hobbyist or looking to build a serious side income, Mia's journey proves it's possible. Explore the LaserPecker LP2 or LP5, connect with other makers, and begin turning your creativity into income.
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!
