What is it?

Coasty is a tiny little laser cutter designed to cut designs into 4 inch square drink coasters. The machine is easy to build if you have access to a 3D printer, but it requires a custom controller. This controller allows you to make the machine as small as possible and keep the wiring very clean.

Here is what you get

• A fully assembled and tested PCB
• An Arduino Nano (clone) programmed with Grbl and setup for the Coasty
• An HC-05 Bluetooth module programmed with the proper settings baud rate
• (2) TI DRV8825 stepper motor drivers with heatsinks and the current set to a recommended value
• (2) Fans with wires trimmed and connectorized
• A cable for the laser module
• A connectorized microswitch for the door interlock.

You must fabricate and/or buy everything else including the laser module.

You can buy the coaster blanks at Amazon.

See this blog post for more details. The source files are there too.

Why did you make it?

I like to make tiny, backpack scale CNC fabrication machines. I go to a lot of Maker Faires, Science Faires, conferences and meetups. It is fun to be able to hand carry a machine to these events.

What makes it special?

Coasty is always a hit at when demonstrated. It quickly cuts low cost coaster blanks, so anyone who wants one can get one. It is so easy to use, first time users can have success with it.

Warning: You must provide the laser module. You are also fully responsible for the safe setup and use of the laser. Always use safety glasses with effective shielding for the power and wavelength of your laser module. Never run the laser unattended and keep a fire extinguisher close by. Always remove power from the laser when not in use or when you are away from the laser. The controller uses open source firmware for control. Never trust the firmware, microcontroller or controller for your safety.