Making Summer Magical with Glowforge

July 11, 2025

Michelle

Summer days call for a touch of magic, and this week's Glowforge makers are showing us how to add enchantment to every project.

From AI-powered art adventures to shimmering seaside decor, let's explore how to make this season extra special with some magical making with your Glowforge laser!

Magical Coloring Adventures

Looking for a creative way to keep imaginations active this summer? Watch @katehickmanart use Magic Canvas and Glowforge Aura to transform simple ideas into enchanting coloring pages. Perfect for rainy summer days or quiet afternoon activities, these custom designs bring artistic adventures to life.

Unleash Your Imagination with Magic Canvas

Magic Canvas turns your wildest ideas into reality with just a few clicks. Whether you're imagining a cute golden retriever puppy riding a surfboard or a family of chickens eating popsicles, this AI-powered tool brings your ideas to life in seconds. Choose from styles like:

  • Adult Coloring Book
  • Watercolor
  • Vintage Storybook
  • Kawaii
  • Gatsby

And more!

The best part? Your creations are instantly ready to print on your favorite materials — from paper to wood to fabric. It's like having an artistic assistant who's always ready to help bring your ideas to life!

Check out Magic Canvas

Summer Accessory Magic

Here's a perfect example of creative thinking: @sweetredpoppy's Cozy Crafternoon designs get a sunny new life as these adorable Bogg Bag charms! Fabi shows us how versatile these files can be, transforming designs intended for one purpose into delightful summer accessories. (Want the files yourself?? Get them here!)

Creative File Repurposing

One of the most magical things about digital designs? Their ability to transform! Just take Fabi's bag charms: she took a design for picture frames and repurposed it to fit her vision.

Here's how you can look at your existing files with fresh eyes:

  • Scale designs up or down for different applications
  • Use graphic elements from larger designs as standalone pieces
  • Try different materials to create new effects
  • Combine elements from different designs

Think beyond the original intention: frame designs might make perfect bookmarks, or a sign design could become amazing gift tags. The possibilities are endless when you start thinking creatively!

Seaside Shimmer

Speaking of magical transformations, these pearlescent shell coasters look like they were crafted by mermaids themselves! Made from layered acrylic with a gold-filled shimmer, they add a touch of coastal magic to every beverage. The best part? No resin needed. Just your Glowforge and the right materials.

Making Magic with Materials

Speaking of materials…specialty acrylics can add unexpected magic to any project! You can find just about any hue or pattern that sparks your creative eye:

  • Pearlescent finishes that shift in the light
  • Iridescent effects that create rainbow shimmer
  • Glitter-infused materials that sparkle
  • Even two-tone options for high-contrast engravings

Just make sure they’re laser-compatible first. Want to learn more about using Glowforge to craft with Acrylics? Check out our Deep Dive blog post!

Read the Acrylic Deep Dive

Coastal Coaster Inspiration

Ready to create your own set of magical coasters? Use Magic Canvas to draft up some ideas, or explore the Glowforge Catalog for plenty of summery inspiration!

While you’re crafting, keep these tips in mind to create the perfect coasters:

  • Layer different materials for depth
  • Consider using felt backing for surface protection
  • Test your design size with common cup sizes
  • Create sets with complementary patterns

Bring the Magic Home

Summer is the perfect time to add a touch of enchantment to your making. Whether you're creating custom coloring pages with Magic Canvas, reimagining designs in creative new ways, or crafting with shimming materials, your Glowforge helps make the magic happen.

Ready to start your own magical making adventure?

Share your enchanted creations with #glowforge — we love seeing how you bring the magic to life! 🐚