lina makes

Maker Blog

Here’s where I share the good stuff. From maker tips and techniques to things I wish I knew before I started. Scroll around, you might learn something new!

Tips & Techniques

Better Understand Air Assist for Laser Cutting & Engraving

Air assist for laser cutting and engraving explained. Learn when to use air assist, recommended air assist settings, and material tips for cleaner cuts.

3 Ways to Add Color to a Laser Engraved Mirror

Learn 3 easy ways to add color to a laser engraved mirror, including acrylic paint, colored backings, and LED lighting for eye-catching effects.

5 Laser Mistakes Beginners Make (And How to Avoid Them)

New to laser cutting? Learn the five laser cutter mistakes I made as a beginner—and how testing, settings, and documentation can save time and materials.

3 Easy and Affordable Ways to Color Engraved Acrylic

Looking to add color to your engraved acrylic projects, but not sure where to start? Look no further! Here are three easy and affordable techniques that will take your projects from plain to eye-catching.
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Tool & Material Guides

14 Must-Have Laser Cutting & Engraving Tools

Get gift idea inspiration with this wishlist of laser cutting & engraving tools and supplies! Here's 14 must-have laser upgrades for your machine and workshop.

12 Useful Gifts for Crafters That They Actually Want

Here's a compiles list of top 10 gifting ideas for crafters, including storage elements to keep crafting spaces tidy, small compartment storage boxes for knick-knacks, and more.

Upgrading to a Refurbished xTool P2: My Honest Experience

Upgrading to a refurbished xTool P2? See my full unboxing, setup, and test results—plus grab my material test grid file to get cutting fast.

Best Clay for Sculpting: Beginner’s Guide to Choosing the Right Type

Wondering which clay is best for sculpting? This beginner’s guide breaks down the top types of clay for different projects, so you can start creating!
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Craft Selling & Business

How to Price Handmade Products: 7 Things That Actually Matter

Struggling to price handmade products? Learn the 7 essential costs and stats every craft seller must know to price confidently and profitably.

Can You Make Money With the xTool M1?

Thinking of buying the xTool M1 to make money? This guide covers my experience with it, hard truths, and lessons I learned along the way.

How to Make Your First Sale on Etsy in 2025

Looking to grow your shop and hear your first ca-ching? Here are essential tips to help you get that first sale—and keep the orders rolling in.

3 Keyword Research Tools to Rank Better on Etsy

SEO is key to being found on digital marketplaces and ranking high on search engines. Here are three tools I've used to improve my listing visibility.

Creative Inspiration & Self-Development

5 Ways to Overcome Creative Block as an Artist

Feeling stuck creatively? Here are 5 ways to overcome creative block as an artist, spark inspiration, and start creating again.

22 Unique Hobbies for Adults to Try in 2026

Here's a fun and exciting list of 22 hobbies for adults to try in 2025. These activities are ranked by their level of effort and cost to start each hobby.

16 Unique Date Night Ideas and Spots in Philadelphia

A curated list of 16 fun and unique date night ideas to experience your next creative hobby and leave you feeling more connected, skilled, and fulfilled.