Laser Cutting - Christmas Countdown Calendar

Introduction

As Christmas gets closer, every day feels a little more exciting. A Christmas countdown calendar turns that waiting into a small daily ritual—every moring, just watching the holiday slowly arrive.

Instead of buying a ready-made advent calendar, why not create one yourself with a laser cutter? A handmade wooden Christmas countdown calendar feels warmer, lasts for years, and becomes part of your holiday tradition. In this tutorial, I’ll guide you through the full process step by step! Come on!

Machine Used

Thunder Bolt 30W

See more details about this machine→

Material Needed

3mm Plywood

Settings

Engraving

Speed:500mm/s
Power:20%
DPI:300

Cutting

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

Before your work begins

Step 1: Place the Wood on the Laser Bed

Start by laying your wooden board flat on the laser bed. Make sure the surface is clean and sits evenly without warping. If needed, use magnets or light tape at the edges to keep the board from shifting during cutting.

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 Christmas calendar design file. 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: Colored the Ornaments

Once all parts are cut, carefully remove them from the laser bed. Paint or stain the decorations. Use thin brushes or paint markers for precision. Allow the color to dry fully before proceeding.

Step 7: Assemble the Calendar

Align the joints and slots as designed and assemble the calendar piece by piece.

Step 8: Complete the Task

And now, your countdown calendar is ready to use!

Come and Try!

The countdown begins the moment you spin the dial. Make a calendar that’s uniquely yours—painted, engraved, and ready to bring joy every December morning.