Classroom Setup for Laser Cutter

[Christopher Bass]

Hi All,

My school just authorized the purchase of a new Epilog laser cutter for the makerspace/engineering program I'm building (sooo excited!!!). Before I actually get the thing, though, I'm wondering if people have any insights on how to optimize the configuration of my space around the new machine. Specifcally if you have any thoughts on the following, I'd really appreciate the advice!

- I'm worried about where to store the accessories and project materials, so I may build a custom cart or benchtop for the machine.  Has anyone had success making custom furniture for a desktop laser cutter? 

- I'm opting for the most cost-effective exhaust option using a 2hp motor blower porting out a window. Are there best practices using this system? Any reservations against using this system? 

- Also, my space is very close to traditional classrooms. Will the motor blower option be too loud to run during school hours?

- Suggestions for any other classroom routines, operations, and organizational items?

Any comments on this topic would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks all,

Chris 

[Melissa De Sole]

Hi Chris,

I'm not an expert on setting up a new laser cutter in the classroom, but I've used epilog cutters in a few different maker spaces. 

Machine use during class: If your laser cutter is in the main classroom, you probably won't want to run it during lessons. The fume extractors I've seen on Epilogs have typically been quite loud. The exception might be during project work time, when you don't need to deliver group instructions. 

Timing: Timing laser cut projects can also get tricky, as anything with engraving can take a long time. If students will be operating the laser cutter itself, then a signup sheet/QR code system would probably be helpful. I'd also recommend timing any units that will use the laser cutter so they don't overlap.

Material organization: I haven't set up a laser cutter from scratch before, but as a user, one of my favorite organization systems for MDF/plywood/acrylic/cardboard has been a giant cubby system. Not sure if that could be installed in your classroom, but it makes the materials easy to access and organize. Each material had its own cubby for unused sheets and another cubby for partially used scraps. 

Ventilation: Depending on the ventilation available in your room, it might also be worth considering an additional HEPA air purifier in the room. 

Congrats on the new laser cutter! That's a fun addition. 
Mel

[Mark Loundy]

One other tip as far as using laser cutters. They have to be actively monitored for fire safety. You will need to have a fire extinguisher nearby and, depending on the material that you’re using, perhaps a spray bottle of water to deal with flareups. You can’t just turn it on and walk away from it during class and not have somebody monitoring it 100% of the time.

Mark Loundy (He, Him, His)

Instructional Technology Specialist 

Google Certified Educator

Ignited Fellow

Silicon Valley

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From: 'Melissa De Sole' via K-12 Fab Labs and Makerspaces <k-12-f...@googlegroups.com>
Sent: Friday, February 27, 2026 10:50:32 AM
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Subject: [k-12-fablabs] Re: Classroom Setup for Laser Cutter

 

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[Christopher Bass]

Wow, thank you all so much for the amazing advice and support! I really appreciate it.

It looks like my next steps are digging a bit more into the exhaust setup and buying/building some large, cubby-style storage to have near the laser.

Again, thank you all so much!!!!!!

Chris

 

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Chris Bass | he, him, his Ingenuity, Design, and Innovation Teacher 75 West Shore Drive, Marblehead MA  01945 781.631.5800 Inquire about enrollment today at towerschool.org.

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[Jesse D Robinson]

Hi Christopher,

I'm not a big fan of venting out windows, but I understand that budget restraints sometimes dictate what equipment we can purchase.  I would highly recommend a filter, depending on the model of Epilog you have.  We own a Fusion Pro.   Rather than tie it into existing ductwork, we opted to purchase a BOFA fume extractor.   https://www.innovativecuttingsystems.com/bofa-exhausts/ad-1000-iq.htm  (example here)

They are pretty hefty, and the filters last a long time, with a digital read-out for replacement.  I run the laser and the filter during class while teaching students how to use it, and just have to raise my voice a bit.  I don't think it would disturb classes in other rooms.

In regards to materials, I usually cut every thing down to 1 x 2 feet sheets and store the material in a cabinet next to the laser cutter/engraver.

Feel free to drop me a line directly if you have any other questions.

Dr. Jesse Robinson

Director of the Glimcher Tech & Design Hub

Pronouns (he, him)

Shady Side Academy Senior School  423 Fox Chapel Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 c.  860-995-9111 e. jrob...@shadysideacademy.org www.shadysideacademy.org

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