Header banner
Revain logoHome Page
Karla Richter photo
1 Level
9768 Review
6245 Karma

Review on DAJA Engraving Machine Portable Connect Beading & Jewelry Making by Karla Richter

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Nice BUT REQUIRED to include shaft size and "nm " to select correct goggles

Although this machine has been a huge learning curve for me, I've enjoyed every project I've done to date. The first was off center, the second I forgot to upload the jpeg image to the machine after aligning everything and engraving the previous one. the smell, and I don't have a laptop to deal with it (and the software can't be used with a Chromebook), so I had to use a desktop PC (in the house). I used to dabble in pyrography but never got past beginner level so this machine gives me the look I want for my woodwork. I've experimented with different depths from 40 to 1-100 deep and found that is too much for my own wooden squares. It didn't cut all the way down, not even close, but the very dark lines weren't as sharp as I'd like. It's important to use a small black card before each project to ensure the laser spot is as small as possible for best results. Although I've done this every time, I feel my strength (at 100%) and depth (at 40) were too high. While the manual and software can be a bit confusing, there is an MP4 file in the USB software download that also shows a video walkthrough to help visually, which I found helpful. I ended up trying my third project for my square piece of wood at 95% power and 29 depth and it made my project much better, cleaner and not so messy. As soon as the laser engraving begins, a red line will appear running across the image on the screen, as well as a green (fill) percentage bar showing the progress. Also, there's a timer in the bottom right corner that lets you know how long the process took, which I appreciate. Here's what I've learned so far: Read the manual a few times and check out the MP4 to USB download stick that comes with it. I put this little laser machine on a small bamboo cutting board in case I messed up and the laser went too far. Also, before I start laser cutting, I put a piece of cardboard very loosely on the sides where there is no protective green screen, as I didn't want to accidentally hurt my eyes. I'm disappointed that there weren't any additional temporary green side shields or even goggles/goggles. I've been looking for a few but am not sure which ones to get for this particular laser. My front green shield had big blobs of black letters on it, which I don't really care about, but was just wondering why. Laser machine for best results. Also watching some videos and reading/learning about these laser printers was helpful for me. There is a "Width" and "Height" adjustment area at the bottom of the software screen that I couldn't figure out, as well as the ability to fully adjust my image exactly where I want it using the software screen, I still have to manually tune your wood piece, and even then it hits or misses. When you adjust the laser to the smallest point, it's inconvenient to stretch out and turn the small knob, so it's easier. While I still feel I have a long way to go to become proficient at this, I find it to be a great job and very suitable for a beginner (like me) to laser machines if anyone willing to do a lot of research and self-learning. In my opinion there should be clearer, more detailed instructions for every aspect of the software and most importantly enough eye protection beyond the single green front screen. In addition, the lack of wavelength and "nm", so who knows which glasses to buy, is disappointing. I'm still trying to figure out what "nm" and wavelength are for a laser to get the right goggles/glasses. The MP4 video was a good help, but there is still a lot I don't understand. I joined the Laser Machines forum group, I read blogs, posts and articles, watch a lot of videos and I think they are all useful. For those who were curious and hoping to own and use a relatively inexpensive, small and fully functional little laser machine, this might be worth considering. Thank you for reading. I joined the Laser Machines forum group, I read blogs, posts and articles, watch a lot of videos and I think they are all useful. For those who were curious and hoping to own and use a relatively inexpensive, small and fully functional little laser machine, this might be worth considering. Thank you for reading. I joined the Laser Machines forum group, I read blogs, posts and articles, watch a lot of videos and I think they are all useful. For those who were curious and hoping to own and use a relatively inexpensive, small and fully functional little laser machine, this might be worth considering. Thank you for reading.

Cons
  • piggy bank price