Welcome to KERF

Knowledge · Education · Reference · Foundation. A field guide for laser engraving across fiber, CO2, and diode machines.

How this site is organized

• General (this tab), universal concepts, interactive tools, business reference, and supplier directory. Anything that applies regardless of which laser you own.
• Fiber: fiber laser specifics: MOPA vs Q-switched, lens guide, color annealing, deep engrave, relief coins, firearms, photo on metal.
• CO2: gantry-style CO2 specifics: wood, acrylic, leather, stone, photo, signage, production fixtures.
• Diode: entry-tier diode laser specifics: GRBL setup, wood and leather work, marking spray on bare metal.

If you're new to laser engraving

1. Read Laser Types Compared below, figure out which laser fits your work.
2. Read Physics in Plain English and Materials Science Primer, the conceptual backbone everything else stands on.
3. Pick your laser tab (Fiber / CO2 / Diode) and start with that section's Foundations modules.
4. Use the Job Recommender (in Tools) to dial in starting points for any specific project.

If you already own a laser

1. Click your laser tab (Fiber / CO2 / Diode).
2. Read the Foundations modules to lock in the source-type-specific concepts.
3. Use the Recipe Browser, Job Recommender, and Material Test guide (here in General → Tools) to dial in settings.
4. Save what works to your Material Library in Lightburn (see Material Library Files).

If you're shopping for a laser

1. Read Laser Types Compared, the 30-second summary table is the right starting point.
2. Check Brands & Materials Suppliers Directory for vendor links.
3. Read Pricing & Customer Intake if you're planning to monetize.
4. Tab over to the relevant laser type and skim the Foundations modules for that type to see what owning one is actually like.

All settings are starting points. Every alloy lot, lens calibration, and machine state is different. Always run a 3×3 test grid before production.