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Fridge magnets may look small, but they carry a big punch when it comes to personal expression, business branding, or gift-giving. With the right tools, you can create customized magnets that are stylish, durable, and unique. One of the best ways to make them is through laser cut fridge magnets.
Key Takeaway
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from materials and preparation to cutting, engraving, and finishing. Whether you’re a hobbyist, a small business owner, or a DIY enthusiast, making laser cut fridge magnets is a fun and rewarding project.
1. Why Choose Laser Cutting for Fridge Magnets?
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s look at why laser cutting fridge magnets has become so popular:
- Precision: A laser engraver cuts with incredible accuracy, allowing you to create detailed shapes and designs that aren’t possible with hand tools.
- Versatility: You can use different materials like wood, acrylic, or layered combinations to achieve unique styles.
- Scalability: Start with one or two magnets for fun, or scale up for a business selling custom magnets online or at craft fairs.
- Professional Finish: The edges are clean, smooth, and consistent, making your magnets look polished and high-quality.
2. Materials and Tools You’ll Need
To get started with your laser cut fridge magnet project, you’ll need the following:
- Plywood sheets and color acrylic – These will form the main body of your magnet. Plywood provides a natural base, while acrylic adds vibrant accents.
- Laser cut fridge magnet file – A digital design file compatible with your laser cutting software.
- LightBurn software – Popular, user-friendly software for preparing and sending files to your laser machine.
- OneLaser XRF – A reliable desktop CO₂ laser engraving and cutting machine designed for precision and ease of use.
- Paint or color markers – To add final touches and bring your magnets to life.
- Adhesive magnets – The backing material that sticks your design to the fridge.
3. Step-by-Step: How to Laser Cut Fridge Magnets
Here’s a clear guide on how to go from blank plywood to finished, colorful fridge magnets.
Step 1: Place the Plywood Sheet on the XRF Working Bed
Start by placing your plywood sheet onto the OneLaser XRF working bed. Make sure the sheet is flat and aligned correctly. The XRF’s sturdy honeycomb bed ensures the material is stable during cutting and engraving.
Step 2: Load the Design File into LightBurn
Open LightBurn software on your computer. Import the laser cut fridge magnet file—this can be anything from a simple shape like a star to a layered design with text or logos.
You can also create your own design within LightBurn or download free and paid templates online. Customize it with names, quotes, or business branding for a personal touch.
Step 3: Adjust the Cutting Settings
Every material reacts differently to laser cutting. For plywood in this project, here are the tested settings:
- Cutting Speed: 15
- Max Power: 90
- Min Power: 10
These settings ensure clean edges without burning the wood excessively. If you’re cutting acrylic layers for accents, you may need to slightly adjust the power to avoid melting.
Step 4: Use Auto Focus and Start Engraving
The X Series touchscreen control panel makes it easy to set up auto focus. Once your file and settings are ready, press start and let the laser do the work.
The OneLaser XRF ensures precision cutting, leaving sharp details and smooth edges. If your design includes engraving (like text or patterns), the laser can etch those details before or after the cutting process.
Step 5: Assemble and Glue the Layers
Once all the pieces are cut, it’s time to assemble.
Layer the acrylic on top of the plywood for a colorful effect.
Use wood glue or clear adhesive for strong bonding.
Let it dry completely before moving to finishing touches.
After assembly, attach an adhesive magnet strip to the back. This is what allows your creation to stick to a fridge or magnetic board.
Step 6: Add Color and Finishing Touches
To make your magnets pop, paint them or use color markers. You can highlight engraved text, add shading, or even apply a clear protective coat to enhance durability.
If you used colored acrylic, you may not need extra paint, since the acrylic already provides vibrant contrast.
4. Creative Ideas for Laser Cut Fridge Magnets
Here are some inspiration ideas you can try with laser cutting fridge magnets:
- Personalized Names or Initials: Great for gifts, weddings, or kids’ room decorations.
- Business Logos: Perfect promotional giveaways for companies.
- Seasonal Themes: Snowflakes for Christmas, pumpkins for Halloween, or hearts for Valentine’s Day.
- Photo Frames: Create magnet designs that frame small printed photos.
- Quotes & Affirmations: Add uplifting messages to brighten someone’s day.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though making laser cut fridge magnets is simple, beginners often make these mistakes:
- Using the wrong material thickness: Too thick and your magnet will be heavy; too thin and it won’t be durable. Stick to 3mm plywood or acrylic.
- Incorrect settings: Running the laser too fast may not cut all the way through. Always test settings on scrap material first.
- Weak adhesive magnets: If the magnet backing is low quality, your piece won’t stay on the fridge. Invest in strong neodymium or reliable magnetic strips.
- Skipping finishing: Sanding, painting, or sealing gives your magnet a professional finish—don’t overlook it.
6. Selling Laser Cut Fridge Magnets as a Business
If you’re considering turning your craft into income, laser cut fridge magnets are a fantastic product. Here’s why:
- Low material cost: Plywood and acrylic are affordable and easy to source.
- High customization: Customers love personalized magnets for events, souvenirs, or gifts.
- Easy to ship: Lightweight and small, making them perfect for online stores or Etsy shops.
- Good profit margin: A sheet of plywood can produce dozens of magnets, each sold for $5–$15 depending on design.
Pair your creations with good packaging and branding, and you can build a successful small business.
7. Why Use the OneLaser XRF for This Project?
The OneLaser XRF is an excellent choice for projects like fridge magnets because:
- Precision cutting: Delivers clean results even on small, intricate shapes.
- User-friendly interface: Perfect for beginners yet powerful enough for professionals.
- Durability: Built for consistent performance in both hobby and small business settings.
- Community support: Join the OneLaser community for tips, files, and inspiration.
8. FAQs
Q: What materials work best for laser cut fridge magnets?
Plywood and acrylic are the most popular, but you can also experiment with MDF, cork, or bamboo.
Q: Can I make double-layer fridge magnets?
Yes! Layering acrylic on wood gives a beautiful contrast and professional look.
Q: What size should fridge magnets be?
Most range from 2–3 inches, but you can adjust depending on the design.
Q: Do I need special magnets for the back?
Yes, use adhesive magnetic sheets or strong strips for the best hold.
Q: Can I sell laser cut fridge magnets online?
Absolutely. Platforms like Etsy, eBay, or your own store are perfect for selling them.
Creating laser cut fridge magnets is a rewarding project that combines creativity, technology, and craftsmanship. With a plywood sheet, a touch of acrylic, and a reliable machine like the OneLaser XRF, you can make customized magnets that brighten up any fridge or workspace.
Whether you’re crafting for fun or building a product line for your shop, the possibilities with laser cutting fridge magnets are endless. From playful designs to polished business promos, every magnet you make is a small piece of art.
