Based on the content of the provided web page, here is a detailed article about the services offered by American Laser Cutter.
Rent Professional Laser Cutters in Los Angeles: A Guide to American Laser Cutter
For creators, students, and businesses in Los Angeles, American Laser Cutter offers a flexible solution to fabrication needs: a DIY laser cutter rental service. Located in Downtown LA near USC, this facility provides access to professional-grade machinery without the high cost of ownership or the long wait times associated with traditional production services.
A Unique Approach:
"Tool Hire" for Agility
American Laser Cutter distinguishes itself by offering a
self-service model. Rather than handing off a project and
waiting for it to be completed, customers can rent equipment
by the hour to cut and engrave their own designs. This "tool hire"
approach is designed to align with the agile demands of
modern enterprises, startups, and makers who need immediate results.
Professional-Grade Equipment
Renters gain access to high-powered 100W CO₂ laser cutters, which are significantly more capable than standard hobbyist machines. Key equipment specifications include:
Large Cutting Bed: Machines feature a bed size of up to 48” x 60”, allowing for large-scale projects.
Precision and Power: The 100W power output and precision motion systems ensure clean optics and accurate cuts.
Material Compatibility: The lasers are compatible with a wide range of materials, including wood, acrylic, and leather.
Who Can Benefit?
The service is tailored to a diverse group of users:
Students: The shop is a popular resource for students from USC, UCLA, Otis, and CalArts who need to complete architecture models or engineering prototypes, especially when university labs are overcrowded or out of service.
Entrepreneurs & Small Businesses: It serves as a cost-effective solution for prototyping products, creating custom packaging, and producing signage without investing in a $10,000+ machine.
Makers & Hobbyists: Individuals can use the facility for personal projects, such as leatherwork, fashion cutouts, and gifts.
How the Rental Process Works
Using the facility is designed to be straightforward, emphasizing a "learn by doing" philosophy with staff support nearby.
Booking: Services are available by appointment only, Monday through Friday, from 10 am to 6 pm.
Orientation: A one-time orientation is required before the first booking to ensure safety and competence.
File Preparation: Users must bring vector files in AI, DXF, or PDF formats.
Materials: Clients can bring their own laser-safe materials or purchase them on-site. Permitted materials include plywood, acrylics, leather, chipboard, and paper.
Restriction: To ensure safety, metal, PVC, and toxic plastics are strictly prohibited.
Operation: During the rental session, the user operates the machine. While staff are available for safety checks and basic guidance, the user is in control of the job.
Education: Intro to LightBurn Course
For those new to laser cutting or looking to refine their skills, American Laser Cutter offers a remote "Intro to LightBurn" course for $120 per hour. This comprehensive training covers:
Software Basics: Navigating the user interface and toolbars of LightBurn.
Design & Prep: Importing images and vectorizing artwork.
Techniques: Mastering engraving, cutting, and marking.
Troubleshooting: Optimizing settings and solving common issues.
Pricing and Location
The facility offers flat hourly rates for rentals and provides student discounts for those with a valid .edu email.
Location: 1319 South Los Angeles St, LA, CA 90015.
Contact: americanlaserco@gmail.com or 213-866-4738 (ext 2).
By providing professional tools, educational support, and flexible access, American Laser Cutter empowers the Los Angeles creative community to "cut with confidence".
Contact Us
Hours by appointment only
Monday–Friday
10am–6pm
Phone
213-866-4738 ext 2
americanlaserco@gmail.com
Location
1319 South Los Angeles ST, LA, CA 90015
Prefer to be hands-on? Rent our CO₂ laser cutters by the hour. After a short training, you can cut or engrave your own designs on our large-format machines. Rental is great for prototypes, small batches, or testing ideas on different materials. Bring your vector file (AI, DXF, or PDF) and your material—or purchase from what we have available—and use professional equipment without buying a machine. Our staff are nearby for safety checks and quick guidance while you run your job. It’s a cost-friendly way for artists, students, and small businesses to get high-quality results.
FAQs
- What is a rental session?
You reserve time to operate our laser cutter yourself. - Is training required?
Yes. A one-time orientation is required before your first booking. - Which file types work?
AI, DXF, or PDF vector files only. - Can I bring my own material?
Yes, as long as it’s laser-safe. We’ll confirm it’s OK to cut. - Will someone help me if I get stuck?
Staff are available for safety and basic guidance, but you run the job during your session.