Bambu Lab R1 first impressions: What the heck did I get myself into?

I remember asking myself "Where do I even start?!" the first time I bought a 3D printer, as I tried to navigate a new hobby full of jargon and processes I had no clue about.

Over the last two weeks, I've had that same overwhelming feeling as I try to figure out how to use a laser engraver and cutter. This time, instead of learning a new hobby on a Creality Ender 3 (IYKYK), I'm learning on the brand-new Bambu Lab R1. 

Bambu has taken all its knowledge and experience from its 3D printing line, including the H2 models with an optional laser upgrade kit, and brought it to the R1, a 55W CO2 laser engraver and cutter that's small enough to fit on a small desk. 

That means the same out-of-the-box simplicity Bambu's known for with its printers has transitioned over to its first dedicated laser cutter.

Prior to setting up the R1, I hadn't even touched a laser engraver, and I've had my work cut out for me. (Forgive the pun.)

I've had to learn an entirely new way of thinking about images, models and materials. I've spent most of my time experimenting on a cheap 24-pack of 3mm basswood from Amazon. I've started playing around with acrylic, too. Heck, I even put a Hydro Flask in the R1 to figure out the best process for engraving curved objects. 

What's surprised me the most about the R1 is just how fast it is to cut or engrave something. I'm used to 3D printing and the hours it takes to complete an item. The longest project I've completed on the R1 so far was an outdoor scenery image on a 12x12-inch board (see above). It took just under an hour – but I stopped it early because the board started moving. (I didn't clamp it down.)

At one point, I used acrylic for a rose puzzle, but quickly discovered using super glue to hold it all together was a horrible idea — it did nothing but cloudy up and make a mess of the otherwise crystal clear material.

Learning a new hobby is a slow process, but that's part of the fun, right? I have a million ideas for things I can engrave, cut and etch for friends and family. 

And I plan on doing just that over the coming weeks as I experiment with different materials and objects. I'd love to etch my name into my whiskey glasses, or customize my kids' Owala water bottles. 

Preorders for the $2,499 R1 open today, with deliveries starting in October. 

Plenty more to come about the R1 in October, with my first review for a new client: All3DP.com (!!)

Stay tuned.