If you monitor the Glowforge User group on Facebook, there is no shortage of people asking questions about purchasing a Glowforge and what model to buy. I weigh in occasionally, but hard to navigate through the sharks trying to push their referral code. So, I thought I’d post a quick article that may help you in your decision making process, and what the Glowforge has done for me personally.
Just as a quick reference note, I bought my Glowforge just over 2 years ago on a whim, after loosely following the kickstarter project since the beginning. I had thought of creating a few things, but never realized what it would evolve into for me. I primarily use the machine as a hobby, but it has created a nice side business selling digital files here and on Etsy.
I had dreams of creating a few topographic maps, some custom gifts, and start tinkering with design. Never would I have imagined what owning a Glowforge would do to my creative side. In the past few years, I’ve created a ton of amazing things on my laser, which evolved into buying and creating things with a 3D printer as well. Many people who buy a Glowforge do it to create a business. A lot of people are successful doing this, but this was never my intention. I have no desire to be selling coasters on Etsy, for example, and mailing stuff out on a regular basis. But, where I did find an unexpected niche is selling my designs for others to print on their laser. I also found the creation of complex polyhedrals enjoyable, and continue to create new shapes on a regular basis. I’ve become an expert in using Adobe Illustrator, learned how to use Fusion 360, as well as honed my skills on a few other applications due to the creative drive just by owning the Glowforge. Making stuff on the Glowforge makes me happy, and being able to own something that unlocks your ability to create is priceless.
Wanna see a gallery of all my Glowforge Creations? Click here!
There are a lot of people who have no experience with lasers or design software who want a Glowforge. Can you create things with minimal knowledge? Yes, but you’ll be able to make much better and customized pieces if you have knowledge of vector applications like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape. However, one of the best things after buying a Glowforge is the amount of resources available to you if you need help. First, the Glowforge Community Forum is by far the best and most comprehensive forum I’ve ever been a part of. Literally, ever single question you could ever have about using your Glowforge has been answered on this forum. The users are exceptionally helpful and go out of their way to help resolve issues. There are multiple Facebook groups and even a Reddit group. Help is there if you need it. I’ve gladly mentored a number of new Glowforge users to help get them started.
Referring a customer to Glowforge who actually purchases a unit gives a discount to the purchaser, as well as a kickback to the referrer. For the purchaser, they’ll get $500 off a Pro, $250 off a Plus, or $100 off a Basic. For the person sharing their code, they can get the same amount in Glowforge store credit to use on materials or designs. You can also get cash back, but at a lesser amount.
For a Glowforge Basic printer, Referrer will receive $120.00 in Glowforge credits, which can be exchanged for $120.00 worth of Glowforge products and services or $100 in cash (payable by check or electronic payment).
For a Glowforge Plus printer, Referrer will receive $300.00 in Glowforge credits, which can be exchanged for $300.00 worth of Glowforge products and services or $250 in cash (payable by check or electronic payment).
For a Glowforge Pro printer, Referrer will receive $600.00 in Glowforge credits, which can be exchanged for $600.00 worth of Glowforge products and services or $500 in cash (payable by check or electronic payment).
Maximum award during this time without prior Glowforge approval is $6,000.00 in credit.
So you want a Glowforge more than ever. I’m happy to answer your questions, and I’ve mentored a number of new Glowforge users to help get them started. If you’d like to use my referral code, I’d be delighted and use the credits to buy more Proofgrade materials for future creations. I’ve added a contact form here if you’d like to ask anything I haven’t covered. You’ll love owning a Glowforge!
Here is my Glowforge referral code and link: TBPLHPFL
