How to Make Custom Pins with a Laser Cutter

Make your own custom pins at home with a laser cutter! Learn how to turn your ideas into super cute acrylic or wood pins using your laser cutter.

In this easy DIY tutorial, I’ll show you how to design, laser cut, and assemble handmade pins using the xTool P2. This is an easy project for beginners, crafters, and anyone curious about laser engraving projects.

Bonus: You can download my free XCS file for pin backing cards at the end of this post!

Materials Needed:

• A sheet of 3mm Basswood or Acrylic
• Fine tipped Acrylic Paint Markers for coloring wood pins
• Chalk Markers for coloring acrylic pins
• CA Glue or E6000
• A set of pins and pin backs
• UV Resin (optional)
• Top Coat Spray Paint
• Isopropyl Alcohol and/or Acetone for cleaning up glue
• 220 grit Sandpaper

Tools Needed:

• CO2 or Diode Laser
• XCS or Other Laser Design Software
• Weeding Tool or Pick
• Tweezers (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions On How to Laser Cut Custom Pins

Step 1: Create Your Design

I start by sketching my designs on my iPad and then importing them into XCS (xTool Creative Space). This makes it easy to tweak shapes. You can create cute icons, vector images, or even text-based designs—anything that inspires you! Once imported, you can resize as needed and adjust your laser cut and/or laser engrave settings for your material type.

Step 2: Laser Engrave & Cut Your Pieces

Using my xTool P2, I laser cut both 3mm acrylic and 3mm basswood.

For acrylic, I recommend keeping the masking on to prevent burn marks.

For wood, I cut directly without masking.

I also engrave details during this step so the designs are ready for coloring later.

Step 3: Assemble Your Pin Pieces

Before gluing, I lightly sand the backs of each piece with 220 grit sandpaper so the glue sticks better.

I tried both E6000 and CA glue—E6000 gave a stronger hold, but takes longer to cure.

Step 4: Add Color to Your Pins

Depending on the material, I use different coloring techniques:

Acrylic Pins: Chalk markers work great for filling engraved areas. Wipe away excess with a damp paper towel.

Wooden Pins: Acrylic paint markers offer great coverage for small spaces. After coloring, seal with matte or gloss spray paint, or even UV resin for a shiny finish.

Step 5: Cut Optional Pin Backing Cards

For a professional touch, I used my xTool M1 with the blade cutter to cut thick 300gsm cardstock into backing cards for the pins. This is great for gifting or selling your pins.

You can download my free XCS backing card file below.

Wrap Up

That’s it! You now have your own custom laser-cut pins. They’re great for personal use, gifts, or even selling at markets. If you want to see every step in action, plus my glue mishaps and real-time tips, check out my full Youtube video.