Use a smooth wooden board suitable for laser cutting, such as birch or maple plywood, about 3 mm thick. Place the wood flat on the laser cutter bed. Make sure the surface is clean and free of dust, oil, or fingerprints, as marks on the surface may burn slightly during engraving or cutting.

Use pins to prevent any shifting during cutting. There are three common types of pins: T-shaped, L-shaped, and F-shaped. F-shaped pins can also clamp plywood upward to help reduce burn marks. Be mindful of the height of magnets and pins, because parts that are too tall may hit the sensor during processing.

Open your laser software, such as LaserMaker, and import the design file. Adjust the layout so it fits properly within the material size, then check the cutting parameters according to the thickness and type of wood you are using.

Before processing, make sure the bed size matches the desired basket size and confirm that the design fits safely within the work area.

Proper focusing helps create neat edges and accurate cuts. 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 the correct angle, then double-check the focus before cutting.

Click “Frame” or “Border” to preview the cutting area and make sure the design fits on the board. This confirms material placement and helps prevent wasted wood. Adjust the position if needed, then start the laser job.

Stay close to the machine during cutting and watch for excessive smoke, flame-ups, or material movement. Keep the workspace well ventilated and use air assist when available for cleaner edges.

Once all pieces are cut, carefully remove them from the laser bed. You may notice small burn residue on the edges, which is normal for wood projects.

Begin assembling the basket by inserting the tabs into the matching slots. Start with the base and side panels, then attach the handle. If the fit feels slightly tight, lightly sand the edges. For a more permanent structure, a small amount of wood glue can be used to secure the joints.