Michigan Makers Summit Showcases the Future of Laser and Printing Technology

Image banner

The maker movement in the United States continues to gain momentum, and in Michigan, that momentum is turning into real opportunity. From hobbyists and DIY creators to small business owners and side-hustlers, more people are discovering how laser engraving, 3D printing, and digital fabrication can transform creative ideas into profitable products. This growing wave of innovation will be on full display at the Michigan Makers Summit, taking place March 13 and 14, 2026 — and this year, OneLaser is right at the heart of the action.

Recently featured on Fox 17 Morning Mix, the Michigan Makers Summit highlighted not only the power of modern laser and printing technology, but also the people and communities driving this industry forward. During the live segment, attendees got a close look at the OneLaser XRF, demonstrated by Blake Sanborn, owner of Great Lakes Laser Supply and host of the summit.

This coverage reinforced a clear message: today’s laser technology is no longer just for factories or large workshops. It’s accessible, versatile, and increasingly central to the modern maker economy.

A Hands-On Maker Experience, Not Just a Conference

Unlike traditional trade shows or conferences where attendees simply observe from a distance, the Michigan Makers Summit is designed to be immersive and practical. According to Fox 17 reporter Nicole Stoner, the event brings together artists, creators, and entrepreneurs from across Michigan who use lasers, UV printers, 3D printers, CNC machines, and more — both for personal creativity and professional production.

The summit will be held at the Oakfield Baptist Church Fieldhouse, located at 11128 14 Mile Rd NE in Rockford, Michigan. Over the course of a day and a half, attendees will be able to:

• Watch live demonstrations of laser engraving and cutting systems
• See UV and 3D printers producing finished goods in real time
• Operate equipment themselves under professional supervision
• Learn how different technologies work across wood, acrylic, leather, metal, and more
• Network with fellow makers, suppliers, and industry experts

For many attendees, this “test-drive” aspect is the most valuable part of the event. As Blake Sanborn explained during the Fox 17 interview, people often research online or watch YouTube videos when considering a laser engraver, but rarely get the chance to actually use the machine before buying. The Michigan Makers Summit removes that barrier.

OneLaser XRF: Turning Ideas Into Products in Minutes

One of the highlights of the Fox 17 Morning Mix segment was the live demonstration of the OneLaser XRF. Shown creating a wide range of finished items in just minutes, the machine illustrated how accessible modern laser technology has become for small businesses and startups.

Blake Sanborn emphasized that machines like the OneLaser XRF are powerful tools for turning simple blanks into high-value products. A plain leather wallet costing $8–$9, for example, can be laser engraved and sold for $40 or more. The same principle applies to coasters, ornaments, earrings, signage, tumblers, and personalized gifts — all of which were shown during the broadcast.

What makes CO₂ laser systems like the OneLaser XRF especially appealing is their versatility. They can process a wide variety of materials, including:

• Wood and plywood
• Acrylic sheets
• Leather and coated fabrics
• Rubber and cork
• Anodized or coated metals

This flexibility allows makers to experiment with multiple product categories before settling on a niche that fits their local market or personal interests.

From Side Hustle to Small Business

One recurring theme throughout the Fox 17 coverage and the summit itself is entrepreneurship. The Michigan Makers Summit isn’t just about machines, it’s about helping people build sustainable income streams.

Sanborn shared personal examples of how creators can start small and scale quickly. In one case, his wife Molly, a former teacher, began selling laser-cut earrings and ornaments tailored to her existing network. Within just a couple of months, that focused approach generated enough traction to justify investing more deeply into the business.

This is why the summit also includes breakout sessions focused on:

• Small business development
• Pricing and product positioning
• Choosing the right technology for your market
• Marketing and selling laser-made products
• Community-driven learning through maker groups

By combining hands-on equipment access with real-world business guidance, the event helps bridge the gap between creativity and profitability.

A Community-Driven Event Built by Makers

When talking about community, Blake Sanborn stands out as someone who truly understands its importance. Through Great Lakes Laser Supply and the Michigan Makers Summit, he has helped create an ecosystem where beginners and experienced makers can learn from each other.

This community focus was evident throughout the Fox 17 interview. Beyond selling machines, Sanborn and his team actively support makers through Facebook groups, educational content, and shared resources. Attendees are encouraged to network, exchange ideas, and build long-term relationships that extend well beyond the summit itself.

The Michigan Makers Summit Facebook group plays a key role in this effort, offering ongoing discussions, advice, and peer support for creators at every stage of their journey.

Event Schedule and Ticket Information

The 2026 Michigan Makers Summit follows a thoughtfully designed schedule that maximizes interaction and learning.

Friday, March 13

• Check-in begins at 5:00 PM
• Evening dedicated to networking, vendor interaction, live demos, and appetizers
• Focus on building connections and hands-on exploration

Saturday, March 14

• Check-in begins at 7:00 AM
• Main sessions run from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Vendor rooms remain open until 5:00 PM for last-chance demos and discussions

Tickets are currently available for $60, with the price increasing to $80 on March 3. For many attendees, the ability to test multiple machines, speak directly with experts, and gain practical business insights makes the summit a strong value investment.

More information and ticket purchases are available at michiganmakersummit.com.

Why This Matters for the Laser Industry

Coverage by Fox 17 brings mainstream visibility to the maker and laser engraving community — and that visibility matters. It shows that laser technology is no longer niche or intimidating. Instead, it’s becoming a realistic path for creative professionals, educators, and entrepreneurs.

For OneLaser, being showcased live on local television alongside a trusted community leader like Blake Sanborn reinforces its role in this evolving landscape. It demonstrates how modern laser systems are empowering people to create, customize, and build businesses with confidence.

As more makers look for reliable, versatile, and business-ready equipment, events like the Michigan Makers Summit play a crucial role in education and adoption.

For creators ready to explore laser and printing technology, or turn a passion into profit, the Michigan Makers Summit is shaping up to be one of the most impactful maker events of the year.

Source: Fox 17 — “Create and Learn About Laser and Printing Technology at the Michigan Makers Summit,” reported by Nicole Stoner, published January 27, 2026. Additional insights from Fox 17 Morning Mix interview featuring Blake Sanborn of Great Lakes Laser Supply.