Glowforge is an amazing tool that can help crafters of all levels create beautiful pieces. But, like any other tool, there are some accessories that can make the experience even better. Here are our top must-have Glowforge accessories to take your crafting to the next level!
So, you bought your Glowforge (or are about to). You’re waiting for it to arrive.
Now is the ideal time to look into what Glowforge accessories you might want to buy. While you don’t necessarily need additional accessories, there are some items that will make your experience a little bit smoother.
There are a variety of must-have accessories that are easy for anyone to use – even if they’re not an expert with tools. Some must-have Glowforge accessories include crumb tray pins, Glowforge dust cover, blast gate, and more to help you optimize your use of the Glowforge 3D printer.
Still shopping for your Glowforge? Be sure to read this article – 16 Things to Know BEFORE You Buy Your Glowforge. When you’re ready, be sure to shop through our referral link to save up to $500.
What Should I Buy for Glowforge?
There are many different accessories that you can buy for your Glowforge printer. The following contains the best accessories, in my opinion, as well as how to use these must-have Glowforge accessories for your Glowforge printer. These items are definite must-haves for your Glowforge creations!
If you are just here for a list of ideas, I’ll share that first. After this “at a glance” list, I will share more details on why you might want to consider these items:
- Digital Caliper
- Blast Gate
- Inline Fan
- Anti-Static Wrist Band
- Glowforge Dust Cover
- Zeiss Wipes
- Crumb Tray Pins
- Windex Glass and Surface Wipes
- Wood Glue
- Hose Shortening Collar
- Quilter’s Pin
- Glowforge Risers
- Masking Dispenser
- Storage
Digital Caliper
A digital caliper is one of our favorite purchases that we have made to use with our Glowforge. It helps you to get the most accurate measurement of how thick your material is, which is important when using non-proof-grade materials.
Blast Gate
A blast gate is an accessory that hooks onto the back of your Glowforge and helps to keep your hose connected so that excess humidity, debris, bugs, etc., do not get into your machine.
You can print this yourself with your Glowforge, and a free file to do so can be found within the Glowforge community. Here is one that others have recommended.
Inline Fan
An inline fan is one of the most popular accessories other Glowforge users add to their Glowforge. This can be especially helpful if you don’t have a window that you can easily vent out of.
You can get between at 4″ and a 6″ fan. You want to make sure it’s between 180 and 400 CFM. I would recommend the 4″ since you won’t need a reducer.
Be aware that installing an inline fan may void your warranty.
Anti-Static Wrist Band
These are a must-have to help reduce static when working with your Glowforge. Great for enhancing your experience and your safety.
Glowforge Dust Cover
Getting a dust cover is a definite must in order to keep your Glowforge machine clean and free of dust.
You can find patterns online to sew these yourself, or you can purchase them from Etsy, Amazon, or the Glowforge community.
Here are TONS of options on Etsy.
If you are looking for a pattern to make your own, this is a great thread in the Glowforge community forum.
Zeiss Wipes
These are the most popular and commonly used wipes used to keep your lens clean and working well. There are different lens wipes out there, but we definitely would agree that these are the best.
Crumb Tray Pins
Crumb Tray Pins will help you to keep any warped boards that you may have flat. These can also help you to secure your more lightweight materials.
You can get these for free and print them yourself with your Glowforge! Here is a file you can use.
Windex Glass and Surface Wipes
These are great for cleaning the glass of your Glowforge and the crumb tray. Others have suggested using Clorox bleach wipes.
Wood Glue
Wood glue is a great item to have on hand for any of the wood projects you will be doing. Here are some of the most highly recommended brands by other Glowforgers:
Hose Shortening Collar
Shorten your hose without cutting it in order to increase the air efficiency of your Glowforge system with a hose shortening collar.
You can make this yourself with your Glowforge printer using a free file from the Glowforge community. Here is one that I found.
Quilter’s Pin
This was an interesting suggestion I saw someone give. They said they use a large Quilter’s pin all of the time while using their Glowforge.
Glowforge Risers
You can purchase a Glowforge Risers ready-made or as a digital file to be made with your Glowforge from Etsy.
The risers are great for cutting boards and other items that you want to engrave without the crumb tray. They also come with a special style of gauge pin and magnetic alignment guides.
Here are some pre-made risers that you can purchase on Etsy and here is a pattern in case you’d like to try to make some yourself.
Masking Dispenser
A Masking Dispenser is great for organizing all of your masking and makes it easier to use. You can make your own with a free file offered in the Glowforge community.
If you do not feel like making your own, however, you can purchase one from Amazon, and it can be mounted or set on rubber feet for easy use.
Storage
You definitely want to find a place to store all your accessories, blanks, and even your projects. If you have room in your budget, we highly recommend the DreamBox – you can save $100 with the code CLARKS100. Be sure to check out our full review here – The Ultimate Create Room DreamBox Review + Coupon 2022.
If you are looking for some other ideas on a budget, make sure to check out this article – 30+ Craft Storage & Organization Ideas for Every Budget.
Focus Height Blocks
Focus Height Blocks are free risers that are easily made out of the draft board and are marked with measurements to help you to know what size objects you can use them with.
Is Glowforge Worth The Money?
The Glowforge is designed to be easy to use with very little setup required right out of the box, so it is very beginner-friendly. Also, Glowforge has a great community of users that is very helpful, especially for those just getting started.
With the price of Glowforge being around $3,995 to $6,995, it just depends on how you will use your Glowforge to determine whether or not it is worth it to you. Don’t forget you can save up to $500 on your Glowforge when you shop through our referral link!
Many people end up selling projects that they make with their Glowforge for a nice side income, so it ends up paying for itself. In my opinion, It is definitely worth the investment!
Glowforge accessories can make your life a lot easier, and we want to make sure you have everything you need to get the most out of your machine. Have you tried any of these accessories? Let us know in the comments which ones are your favorites!
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