Laser Cutting - Wooden Chandelier

Introduction

Have you ever sat in your study on a quiet summer night, watching the light filter gently through a chandelier, scattering soft patterns across the walls? The room feels calmer, warmer—almost like the light itself is part of the décor.

A plywood chandelier brings that feeling to life in a simple yet striking way. When the layers catch the light, they create shadows that shift and overlap, turning an ordinary ceiling fixture into something far more expressive. In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to laser cut a wooden chanderlier from start to finish.

Machine Used

Thunder Bolt 30W

See more details about this machine→

Material Needed

3mm Plywood

Settings

Cutting Plywood

Speed:10mm/s
Max Power:25%
Min Power:10%
Number of Passes:1

Before your work begins

Step 1: Place the Material on the Laser Bed

Place the wooden board sheet flat on the laser bed. Make sure the material is clean and properly secured to prevent movement during cutting or engraving.

Important Safety Note:
Our plywood has been treated with a fire-retardant wood wax oil. For lighting fixtures, this is strongly recommended. Wood near heat sources should always be treated with a fire-resistant coating to reduce potential fire hazards.

Tips:

There are three common types of pins: T-shaped, L-shaped, and F-shaped. A special use for F-shaped pins is clamping up the plywood to prevent burn marks. Be mindful of the height of the magnets and pins. If they are too tall, the sensor might hit them and become damaged during processing.

Step 2: Open the File and Check the Settings

Open your laser software(I use LaserMaker) and import the design file into your laser software. Adjust the layout so it fits properly within your material size. Before moving on, double-check your engraving and cutting parameters to match the thickness and type of wood you’re using.

Step 3: Focus Your Laser Machine

Proper focusing ensures neat, polished edges. If your machine has auto focus, use it for quick setup. For manual focusing, lower the laser head with the focus stick until it touches the wood surface at a perfect angle. Always double-check before cutting.

Step 4: Frame the Design and Start Laser Cutting

Then click “Frame” or “Border” to preview your cutting area and make sure the design fits nicely on your board. This confirms your material placement and avoids wasting wood. Adjust as necessary. Once everything is set, start the laser job.

Step 5: Monitor the Laser Cutting Process

Stay close to the machine while it’s running and watch the cutting and engraving progress. Keep an eye out for excessive smoke, small flame-ups, or any movement of the material that could affect the outcome. Make sure your workspace is well-ventilated, and rely on air assist if available to achieve cleaner edges on the wood.

Step 6: Assemble the Chandelier

If the joints feel slightly loose, don’t worry. You can apply a small amount of cyanoacrylate adhesive (such as 502 glue) to reinforce the connections and improve overall stability. Use the glue sparingly to avoid visible residue.

Ensure everything is stable and secure before mounting it onto the light socket.

Step 7: Install the Lampshade on the Bulb

Before installation, make sure the power is completely turned off to prevent any risk of electric shock. Then Carefully mount the chandelier structure onto the bulb holder.

Important Safety Note:
● Use LED bulbs only.
● Avoid incandescent or halogen bulbs.
● Ensure the wood does not directly touch the bulb.

Step 8: Complete the Task

Your laser-cut plywood chandelier is now complete. Turn on the light and enjoy the layered shadows and warm atmosphere it creates.

Come and Try!

Lighting changes everything. With just a sheet of plywood and your laser machine, you can create a chandelier that feels architectural, warm, and completely custom. Try experimenting with different patterns or layer thicknesses—and always prioritize safety while designing your own lighting piece.