Clay and Ceramic Bowls and Mugs

Information

      I'm currently casting clay cups. Naturally, at some point I wondered whether I could use my laser to engrave something on ceramics. You can find quite a bit online, but hardly any information about what type of laser and what settings to use. To cut a long story short: I tinkered around a bit and it's really easy! I use the XTool D1 Pro 10W with an additional 20W module.

Colors of the clay
Different clays require slightly different settings. So there is no universal clay setting. You have to experiment a little. Of course, it also depends on how deep you want to laser.

Gloss and matte
The clay is somehow blasted away by the laser. Only in tiny portions, of course. This results in a rather rough, matte surface (as with laser engraving on glass). If you give the laser enough power or time, the clay melts. This results in a glossy finish.

Bisque ware
I have (so far) only worked with fired cups (bisque). It works great and is much easier to handle than greenware.

The rotary tool
It is, of course, an absolute must-have. Simple and reliable. I love it! I also made a disc for the RA2 rotary tool with a view to experimenting with unfired clay. The three supports on the chuck then only need to hold the cup very gently, and the disc ensures that the cup remains in a right-angled position. No, it wasn't my idea; I saw it in an Instagram video. I have also attached the file for the 3D printer above so you can make a disc by yourself.