Adding Firepower to My Crafting Arsenal: My Genmitsu Laser Engraver Journey
- Crystal Wubbels
- Apr 4
- 3 min read
Every crafter loves discovering a new tool that expands their creative possibilities. For me, that latest addition is the Genmitsu Kiosk 10-Watt Laser Engraver. Moderately priced with a compact 100mm x 100mm working area, this little powerhouse has sparked both excitement and a healthy dose of frustration. Let me walk you through what I’ve learned so far and maybe help a few fellow DIYers avoid the same speed bumps.
Why This Laser? I chose this machine because I wasn’t ready to spend a fortune, but I wanted something capable of engraving materials like wood, leather, acrylic, and maybe even fabric. The size fits well in my crafting workspace, and on paper, the specs checked the boxes. However, what I didn’t expect was how limited the online support would be. As someone new to laser engraving, I’ve been figuring things out mostly through trial and error.
Learning the Software (a.k.a. The Rabbit Hole)
The engraver comes with CutLabX, which I’ve managed to install and use to send files to the engraver via Wi-Fi. That in itself felt like a win! Then I tried LaserGBL… and hit a wall.
LaserGBL requires you to input the IP address and port number of your engraver, which led me down a rabbit hole of trial-and-error guesses and dead ends. Every port I tried said the machine wouldn’t connect. At some point, I may need to call in a tech-savvy friend—or just keep poking at it until something works.
How I Connected My Engraver to Wi-Fi (So You Don’t Have to Struggle) Here’s the step-by-step process I followed to connect the engraver to my network using the Genmitsu app:
Download the Genmitsu app to your phone (I used an iPhone).
Open the app and swipe down to select "Laser Engraver".
Tap “Connect to New Machine” and follow the prompts.
When the app asks you to switch back to your Wi-Fi, make sure you’re on the same network as the engraver. (I have network extenders, 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz, so this was important!)
Once connected via the app, you can open CutLabX on your computer or phone.
In CutLabX, navigate to the Engraver tab on the right, change the connect mode to Wi-Fi, and click Search.
Your engraver’s IP address will appear—just click Connect.
Voilà! Your machine is online.
First Projects: Coasters and Charcoal (Oops)
I've completed my first three prints—two came out okay, and one... well, it looked more like a burnt offering than a crafted coaster. Leather burns quickly if you’re not careful! I’m still working out the settings, figuring out how to do a test fire, and dialing in bracketing. But hey, that’s part of the fun, right?
This is what it was supposed to look like:
What’s Next? I’ll be experimenting with other materials, like wood blanks, acrylic sheets, and maybe even fabric tags for my handmade products. I’d love to try engraving logos or Morse code messages on leather patches for my soaps or bow packaging.
If you’re thinking of dipping your toes into the world of laser engraving, I’d recommend this machine—as long as you’re comfortable doing some troubleshooting along the way.
Reader Questions:
Have you used a Genmitsu or another laser engraver? What tips or tricks helped you get started?
What should I try engraving next?
Despite the learning curve, I’m really excited to see how this engraver expands what I can offer through Rooted N Red. If you’re curious or ready to try one yourself, I’ve dropped a link below to the machine I bought. This machine is not for the faint of heart; be prepared for a learning adventure.
If you enjoyed this post or found it helpful, I’d love for you to check out my other crafting adventures at www.rootednred.com and share your own laser engraving journey in the comments below. Happy crafting!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products I’ve personally used or believe will add value to your creative projects.
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