Glowforge Laser Cutter — Glowforge Pro

Glowforge Pro

Glowforge Laser Cutter

⚠ Training Required

The Glowforge Pro is a CO₂ laser system for cutting and engraving a wide range of materials. The laser beam is invisible and can cause instant, permanent eye damage. Fumes produced during cutting can be toxic. Authorization from makerspace staff is mandatory before any independent use.

Safety Video

✓ Approved Materials

Glowforge Proofgrade™ materials
Natural solid wood
Laser-grade plywood / MDF
Cast acrylic
Vegetable-tanned leather
Paper and cardboard
Anodized aluminum (engraving only)

✗ Prohibited Materials

PVC / vinyl
Polycarbonate / Lexan
Chrome-tanned leather
ABS (releases toxic fumes)
Unknown materials

Safety Rules

Mandatory authorization required — speak to staff before first use
Never leave the machine unattended while cutting
Always ensure the exhaust fan is running before starting a job
Keep a fire extinguisher accessible at all times
Wear laser safety eyewear rated for CO₂ wavelengths

HIVE Makers Summer Camp

This summer, ten students in grades 5 through 11 spent a week at the OISE HIVE designing, building, and coding their way through a hands-on makerspace experience. After exploring 3D printing, laser cutting, electronics, and art-making, the group came together for an ambitious final project: a fully interactive Smart House, complete with a working door lock, motion-activated lighting, a resin-cast swimming pool, and furniture that was both hand-built and 3D printed, all designed and created entirely by the students themselves. Along the way, they learned to problem-solve, collaborate across teams, and embrace the trial-and-error spirit that lies at the heart of making.

The students' finished interactive Smart House final project

Another view of the students' completed Smart House, showing its lighting and built features

A student sketching and planning their design on a whiteboard

Students learning how to safely use a saw to cut material

Students working together across the makerspace's different stations