Sam I really enjoy how you teach. There are a whole group of you guys (of course this includes lady's too i.e. "That Mom with a Laser" and others) . I had no idea before I started my laser busines that there was such a great community of helpful knowledgeable people. So thankful for all of you. Hope to join in, in teaching this fun and rewarding craft at sometime in the future. You guys put so much effort into making this entertaining/fun and still teach so much. Can't say this enough, Thanks for being there for others it's a well worth effort.
Sometimes the problem with most self-employed is they don't know how to trust others to do a good job. The solution sometimes isn't downsizing but employing skill. But your direction is completely relatable.
I have trouble finding people that know how to competently hook up positive and negative jump pack boosters to car batteries even when things are clearly marked and color coded. You'd be surprised the level of stupidity a lot of people possess. God forbid I make it any more complicated by telling them they're not supposed to keep the jump pack connected once the engine starts. It's like their whole mental shuts down. I'm amazed they got themselves dressed in the morning. If you have competent workers, keep them employed at all costs!
AVACADO!!! Excellent video and even better story Chad. Thanks for all the transparency, honesty and inspiration. Keep up the great work and wishing you nothing but even more success! Great job.
AVOCADO, You are the man that a lot of people would love to be. You stepped out from a secure job and took your chance and by all indications, it has paid off. Congratulations.
AVOCADO! I stumbled onto this video somehow and as I watched it I realized I am in the same boat you used to be in Chad. I to have a small business and like Jonathan below states that employing skill is probably the way to go I to suffer from trusting people to run my operation and feel the need to get my hands in everything to make sure quality and customer satisfaction stays high. However, I too work to much and its majorly impacted my personal life and I have lost relationships and friends due to my work. I dont get to relax and I completely relate on the part of this video you mention how your mind cant get off of work when spending time with your family. I suffer from this big time and I to like you take on every job that comes our way. I put myself in stressful situations by doing this behavior. I respect your honestly in this video and its one of the most eye opening videos I have ever watched. It really opened my eyes and I bet a lot of other people who have watched this as well that overcomplicate their lives. A true inspiration and I thank you for the therapy! I have to go think now... lol thanks again!!
Avocado! Thank you for documenting all your years in business and providing your products. Family is always first over anything! God Bless you and your beautiful family Chad!
Avocado. Great lesson about having all those custom ordered products and being overwhelmed. I will share it with the students in my business class. From the outside, looking at all those amazing product pictures, most people would be envious. However, behind the scenes it was a different story. Thanks for putting this video together and sharing your experience.
Avocado!!! I just found this video and loved the information. I just purchased a small diode laser and needed the inspiration to keep going. I know there's a big difference between the two types of lasers but its been a struggle. Im a disabled vet and would like to hear more from you about what works and what doesn't. Thanks again for putting the info out there.
Glad you found me, a diode is a great place to start and is although different fully cable of doing a lot of the things that I produce. Thank you for your support and watching my entire video.
Avocado! Thank you for the inspiration! I'm just getting started. So many things and so much that I would want to do, this is a great lesson on streamlining. And I'm pretty sure you're close by as the Top Dawg is just down the street. :)
Kimmie the word streamlining is the perfect way to put what I did. Yes top dawg has quite a few locations now I believe the closest to me now is Augusta GA. Thank you for watching!
Hey I picked one random person that commented Avocado and you are it! I have something I'd like to send to you, comment me your email address so I can get in touch.
@@CraftHappens awww so sorry I was hopeful I would get in touch with you but I will let you know that the package went to a couple in FL who have had some bad luck and this really could help them out big time.
AVOCADO! Really, a lot of things to consider... With young children, time is something that doesn't really come back. Congratulations on your courage and for telling us your story! Hugs from Brazil!
Congratulations! That was a brilliant move and a very well-done video. Thank you for sharing this excellent helpful information; now that I've retired from bail bonds, I plan to start a laser business even though I don't like avocados.
Taking the random odd jobs the big production ones!!!! YES YES YES the ones that money can be made on, that are worth doing, and the customer understands the work ( willing to pay for ) and number one mentally satisfying when complete. Good for you and you real customes!!!!!!
Avocado!! Thanks for all the info. I am in the military and move around a lot, but I love to do custom projects for people. I definitely undervalue my time and quality of product. I'm looking to get into lazer engraving soon, and I appreciate all the info you are willing to share that others won't. I hope for continued success with your business and as a father of 3 myself, family time!!!
Avocado, I was also making everything and also having lots of fun, I think I should follow in your footsteps. Thank you for showing me it can be done!!! Thank you!!
Lloyd it’s definitely fun but now I get to make stuff for myself and family and get the business done as fast as possible for more free time. I am lucky it’s working out for now.
It’s all the amazing people who watch my stuff that allow me to be able to share this stuff. I will continue to always try to bring value to those who support me in that way. God bless you too!
Avocado, thank you for sharing not only your experiences and showing that downsizing is an ability. focus on 1 or 2 things and run with it. makes me think. thanks and good luck
Avocado! I'm four months late but better late than never. Thank you for your openness, honesty, and transparency. Truly an inspiration. BTW, from Covington, Georgia here. Howdy 'Neighbor!'
Thanks for watching my Georgia friend, I am stuck in middle GA at the moment. If you are in need of a laser rotary I am doing a giveaway on the last video I did you still have time for that one.
Avocado- love your experience sharing- I have been teaching art and want to retire so I started my laser journey in the past week. I can see this working for me. Love your spirit.
As a former art teacher myself I totally get where you are coming from! I believe we have an upper hand because of the amount of creativity we have built up over the years. Gives us a good upper hand in developing products that sell.
Avacado! It is always interesting hearing from entrepreneurs, it is an adventure and hard work, it is freedom. What you shared is the most important lesson of all, be prepared to adjust and start all over! Good work! Have a happy life.
So glad to hear this was helpful, this giveaway ended but there is still a few more days on this video’s giveaway ruclips.net/video/fCnQL3DcaC4/видео.htmlsi=NMaqr-SUVTiLW3kO
Avocado! Family is everything, and kids grow fast. You said the most important thing. Just being there doesn't matter if your mind is elsewhere. Memories feel like a dream when you are that busy. I recently stepped back from the chaos of success too. No regrets. I can always go back when my kids are grown. ❤
Wendy thanks for entering the giveaway away sadly this one has ended but I am doing a 5w laser giveaway on my latest video now if you want to join. ruclips.net/video/fCnQL3DcaC4/видео.html
Avacado! I love your story and your full disclosure of your business and decision-making. You made the right decision in prioritising your family as they grow up so fast. Keep up the good work, and I wish you many more years of success!
Thank you so much, I am in a lucky position and I hope I can continue to enjoy it the way I have been especially while these little ones are still little.
Thank you so much for the kind words, sadly this giveaway has ended but I am doing another giveaway on my last video if you want to join in. ruclips.net/video/fCnQL3DcaC4/видео.html
Avocado! WOW..I came across your video by mistake but I'm glad I did. Following you as you are inspirational and I cant wait to get home to start using my laser to create new product. Thank You
Avocado. This was a very inspiring video Chat. I’ve learned a lot from your video as well as making me think about my own business moving forward. Thank you very much and I wish you and your family the best.
Avacado! I've been seeing and hearing (that ILTMS patreon is worth it) for year, and I just realized I'm right down the road from you I'm GA! Been pouring through videos before buying my first laser and yours were super helpful man! Much appreciated! Riches are in the niches! If you can keep it simple and still make $$ it's even more powerful. Congrats and keep it up!
AVOCADO! Nice business. I am retired and 70yrs old. I have a very small and cheap cnc router. I used it to make Christmas gifts for family a few years ago cutting into mirror tiles. It worked great after a little learning curve. I bought a small laser diode head for it. I have not tried it yet, but you inspired me to get it going... Don't worry I won't be any competition to you! LOL
Avocado! Thanks for the video. For a new engraver and new business that helps build prospective on the ups, downs and the real prospective on funning an engraving business. I love that you keep it real and aren't one of those folks that tells everyone that you make and tells everyone that you make millions like some gurus do.
Avocado Bro! I've just closed my custom laser and cnc routing work two weeks ago and gone with the 80/20 rule (Pareto Principle) with one big client (looking for more with set bulk runs) and finally (finally) being able to develop my own product lines that I've been dreaming of for 8 years now. I really appreciate you putting this vid out. Appreciated. Here's to seeing how I go in the coming year or three!
Avocado from 🇵🇭! As a father (of 3) myself, I’m glad you’ve successfully transitioned your business with a model that allows you to spend more time with what matters most (your family, especially your growing kids). I’m also in the process of personally getting involved in our cnc workshop, and what you’ve shared in this video is a great time saver (learning from your experience), in positioning our business moving forward. 👍👍🍻
Ryan I feel I am a very blessed man in that I am able to do these things. I am so glad to hear what I shared was helpful I am wishing you all the success you can handle. Thank you for watching!
Avocado. Inspirational my brother. I am right now where you were with CCC and 17 hour days are wearing me out. I needed to see this as I redo my biz plan. Wish me luck and keep up the good, quality work!
Avocado! Thanks for sharing! You are a gem and a wonderful person for putting community over competition . Too few people in this world like you, A big hello from Australia! Wish you the very best!
Avocado! The variety of jobs gave you skills that otherwise you would not have developed or enhanced. All this GAVE you more choices- Never regret experience --- embrace it. These new generations don't understand patience or true learning, they scream and demand you do things their way but they never had a variety of experience. Wisdom comes with experience (age).
Tim you’re absolutely right about that I feel very well rounded as maker now and the experience I gain from saying yes to all those jobs is actually priceless.
Wanted to double comment here to also say this. Your videos have been great at both curbing and elevating my expectations if I were to go the laser engraving or CNC path as a side business. Things have come a long way over the last decade. It is great to find a craftsman channel instead of an influencer channel talking about shop tools.
Man I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that comment. Sometimes going to RUclips feels like going to a car dealership. I don’t mind looking at the new stuff but please can we all stop trying to sell anything and everything to the people who are supporting our channels already with their views.
Avocado- it’s people like you that make this world a better place! Great video, awesome information and a perfect example of community over competition!
I am extremely humbled by the community on here I will continue to do my best to try to bring value to those willing to invest their time with my videos on here.
AVOCADO!!! Thanks Chad, incredibly transparent and honest look at many dimensions that people can learn from. Your work looks quite impressive, across all stages of your career too. Best wishes to you and your family. Thanks for sharing.
AVOCADO !!!! Dude you inspire me to step up my game ... Kinda getting lost in making way too many items. Instead of focussing on less items but selling more... great video thanks
@@ChadsCustomCreations You think so? I think it is an honor to get to know your experience in first hand and that you remember my name, Chad. Today I publish a video about a small laser, small but a 40W powerfull, it is in Spanish... I know you don't need any new ideas, you have so many and have done everything, but I tell you about it because I enjoyed so much this adventure getting to know this machine and letting myself go, I see that letting you go in you, but in such a much bigger scale, and I understand why your passion didn't let you live!! My main mistake is trying to give the objects I make a finishing hand painted touch... because it was so much work time, but, at the end, it was so much enjoyment!
I appreciate that, I know a lot of people on YT are pushing the hustle make all the money mentality but I am pushing the make a living and be happy ideology.
AVOCADO!!! Dude awesome video, I am retired now and just want to start something I never got to do, served for 28 years in the Army and a school teacher for 25. but you made a great point about the type of business. Do little but Great! Anyway enjoy the family Sir
Thank you for your service both in the Army and as a teacher both I would consider battle grounds in their own ways. Thank you so much for watching the whole video. I am amazed by everyone’s support this is such a great community we’ve got here I hope you continue to be apart of it.
AVOCADO! Thank you for your content, it is good to know how others are doing in the business. Keep posting and I am looking forward to your Q code video.
Glad you enjoyed it Andy. Sadly this giveaway has ended, but I am giving away another laser if you want to join in on that one in my latest video. ruclips.net/video/GHFWKfaUeuU/видео.html
Avocado! Keep going. I have a small diode laser and I do all word of mouth. I mostly to wood flags and I need something that can handle up to 36 inches. Diodes have worked for me because I can put it on top of my product and move to to the locations that I need. Looking to upgrade someday but for now this works. Keep up the good work and keep the videos coming. Thank you.
That sounds like a great gig Tod! I am a huge fan of the diode laser I think they will soon be top dog in the laser world. I just put out a video with the 70w diode and how it can cut metals it’s pretty crazy.
AVOCADO! As somebody that is looking to add a laser cutter to my toolset and hopefully un-vacation my old Etsy store, I want to thank you for such wonderful insight into your process. It gives me a little more optimism in my decision to do this.
Avocado! Thank you so much for sharing Chad, your work and dedication are amazing, and so is your generosity. I for one, would love to see how you do your QR codes, if you ever find the time to do it.
Chad i would love to see your process for these. I really appreciate this video . Im in the same boat. I started my biz and shut it down a year later. I was struggling a bit since I offered too much. Now I'm re-opening and slimming down what I do as well. I appreciate you sharing.
Joe I am glad you liked that little joke glad to have you as a subscriber and more so as an active member of the conversation in the comments. Without you all this would seem pointless but you guys have got me energized to do more!
Avocado!!!....Well done..truly. it's a very inspiring tale...I will try to do my own steam and see what happens. It's hard work ofcourse but it's worth it. Take care.
AVACADO!!!! I recently picked up an Omtech Polar for the purpose to making a side business. I personally found this video helpful as I think I will embrace the one item done well instead of many. Thanks for the video and inspiration.
Avocado!! Thanks for sharing. Appreciate you showing the revenue numbers. The other intangible is your possible improvement in work life balance. Best of luck!
Avocado! I’m a new subscriber, and so happy to have found your channel. I currently take every job being that I’m still growing after 5 years in the custom business with very low clientele..I have several machines including a xtool M1 laser engraver and want to focus more on building my laser skills. You have motivated me to take a step back if needed to reconstruct. I recently obtained a store location thinking that it would give me access to more paying customers. However, after a month there I am struggling to gain clients still. I just want to craft, help others, and make a living for my family. I am looking forward to learning more & more inspiration from you!🎉 Thank you!!
Tisha I am so glad you found me. Sounds like you’ve got a good thing going there, running a business is a roller coaster but it sounds like you have the grit to keep it going! I am wishing you the best!
Watching you video is like me looking in the mirror . 13 years i have had a small sign shop and never said NO to jobs . Alot of hours spent learning to do things that making money . Now i have desided to stick to things i know how to do well and fast . I seriously feel i have grown up and im wiser . Good video ! And very inspiring! Thanks Chad. I have had my Rmlaser 1390 for a month now and love it !! Really going after the hotels with your ideas !! ❤
The amount of work that goes into custom signs is very underestimated! Glad you and I are making some pivotal changes to better ourselves. The RM1390 looks like such a great machine I would love to have that laser bed size and power!
Can you tell me how you went about ordering and paying for your laser? I currently have a quote from Angela and they want bank transfer but how do I have any guarantees?
@@joemalone3218 hey Joe yes Bank transfer is a common way to pay RM laser I have known many people who have done it and though it is scary it does come with no credit card fee. You can go check out the comments on my laser video showing the RM960 and you will see some others talking about it.
Avocado, dude! I've been thinking about getting into lasers for several years now. I've done custom, high-end woodwork off and on as a sideline from my day job as an engineer, but since I'm not a fast builder, it's not something I could make a living at. Just turned 60, and I'm thinking it's now or never! Your videos give a realistic picture of the lasering business, I believe, so I'm following!
AVOCADO! I run a laser 'business' that has yet to find a good profit vs. effort ratio. Your video is inspiring. Great on the creativity and also finding a really smart niche!
Avocado, thank you for sharing. I appreciate the honest feedback and observations you make of your business. I can tell you will be successful at anything you pursue. One thing i wish you mentioned was time. You mentioned more family time, but how much? If you keep your income the same but double your free time, that might be more valuable than doubling your income! I ran a home improvement business where I would take on any job, "we don't do yard work and we don't pick colors". I eventually ended up taking a day-job in engineering for the consistent income and I could always just cut my time off at 40 hours every week, but I still do side work that adds another 50% to my yearly take home, and have been looking at something that interests me that would be a hobby and income like CNC, prototyping, signmaking/laser engraving.
My pleasure, I think I may secretly miss being an educator still and this is a good outlet for me to feel like a teacher again. Thank you for watching!
Avocado! :) I'm just a newbie bespoke pen maker and really impressed from your experience. I hope you can keep the growth and success. Wish you all the best, Cihan.
Avocado? Here in Colombia it's "Aguagate". Mr Chad. Im very surprised for your video cause you have inspired me to launch me in the laser world where I began with a small 4040 diode laser. Now, I have talked with your friend Ray and I'm in the way to purchase a J750 and I'm still saving money to get finally order it in October. I'm sure this is a wonderful bussines and néed to say thank you for the transparent way you show your experience to us. Hope we can talk some day to tell you my experience. Thank you forever Mr Chad.
That is so exciting to hear. My goal here on RUclips is to help inspire, and empower others to keep on creating. Thank you for sharing that with me. Best of luck with your future ventures!
Interested in getting an RM Laser?
U.S.- us.rmlaser.com...
Non U.S. residents - rmlaser.com/?r...
Questions or placing orders directly Ray@rmlaser.com
Oh yeah, what would ya Yanks do without the Chinese :P
RM Laser sponsoring the hell out of these videos. Every engraving video I watched today, their name was all over. Wtf lol
AVOCADO! Chad, I don't care about anyone else... you're a true inspiration and encouragement to me. I appreciate you, man!
Sam I can and do say the same thing about you and your family. I am so glad this platform has connected us in the way it has!
Sam I really enjoy how you teach. There are a whole group of you guys (of course this includes lady's too i.e. "That Mom with a Laser" and others) . I had no idea before I started my laser busines that there was such a great community of helpful knowledgeable people. So thankful for all of you. Hope to join in, in teaching this fun and rewarding craft at sometime in the future. You guys put so much effort into making this entertaining/fun and still teach so much. Can't say this enough, Thanks for being there for others it's a well worth effort.
Sometimes the problem with most self-employed is they don't know how to trust others to do a good job. The solution sometimes isn't downsizing but employing skill. But your direction is completely relatable.
You’re not wrong, it is definitely an unwarranted fear of mine.
I have trouble finding people that know how to competently hook up positive and negative jump pack boosters to car batteries even when things are clearly marked and color coded. You'd be surprised the level of stupidity a lot of people possess. God forbid I make it any more complicated by telling them they're not supposed to keep the jump pack connected once the engine starts. It's like their whole mental shuts down. I'm amazed they got themselves dressed in the morning. If you have competent workers, keep them employed at all costs!
@@ChadsCustomCreations All of us. That's why we choose to be self-employed and utilize automation lol
Soon he can outsource the labor to the munchkins! MUAHAHA!
@@MasterBasser when the world seems full of idiots, it's usually just reflecting yourself back to you
Avocado! Thanks, Chad for the transparency and comraderie. You've been a big inspiration for me a couple of years now.
AVOCADO! Chad.Thank You for being transparent with your business. You are my idol and inspiration for my future projects.
Roy I appreciate the kind words and am so happy to hear my videos are encouraging you.
AVACADO!!! Excellent video and even better story Chad. Thanks for all the transparency, honesty and inspiration. Keep up the great work and wishing you nothing but even more success! Great job.
So kind of you to say that and love to hear it’s inspiring! Thank you for watching!
AVOCADO, You are the man that a lot of people would love to be. You stepped out from a secure job and took your chance and by all indications, it has paid off. Congratulations.
Thank you I am glad it worked out, but it wasn’t hard to leave that 5 year teacher Salary it’s amazing any teacher can live on that alone.
AVOCADO! I stumbled onto this video somehow and as I watched it I realized I am in the same boat you used to be in Chad. I to have a small business and like Jonathan below states that employing skill is probably the way to go I to suffer from trusting people to run my operation and feel the need to get my hands in everything to make sure quality and customer satisfaction stays high. However, I too work to much and its majorly impacted my personal life and I have lost relationships and friends due to my work. I dont get to relax and I completely relate on the part of this video you mention how your mind cant get off of work when spending time with your family. I suffer from this big time and I to like you take on every job that comes our way. I put myself in stressful situations by doing this behavior. I respect your honestly in this video and its one of the most eye opening videos I have ever watched. It really opened my eyes and I bet a lot of other people who have watched this as well that overcomplicate their lives. A true inspiration and I thank you for the therapy! I have to go think now... lol thanks again!!
Can relate to all of this 100% you’ve got this, glad to hear this was eye opening wishing you the best! And thank you for watching.
Avocado! Thank you for documenting all your years in business and providing your products. Family is always first over anything! God Bless you and your beautiful family Chad!
Chris thanks so much for saying that. God bless you and your family also!
Avocado. Great lesson about having all those custom ordered products and being overwhelmed. I will share it with the students in my business class. From the outside, looking at all those amazing product pictures, most people would be envious. However, behind the scenes it was a different story. Thanks for putting this video together and sharing your experience.
Gavin what an honor to think this would be shared with a business class. Thank you so much for watching!
Avocado!! So happy for you Chad!! The fact that you can feel a little more relaxed I'm sure makes a huge difference, good on ya!
Thank you Ed I count myself very lucky and I am enjoying every minute of it.
Avocado!!! I just found this video and loved the information. I just purchased a small diode laser and needed the inspiration to keep going. I know there's a big difference between the two types of lasers but its been a struggle. Im a disabled vet and would like to hear more from you about what works and what doesn't. Thanks again for putting the info out there.
Glad you found me, a diode is a great place to start and is although different fully cable of doing a lot of the things that I produce. Thank you for your support and watching my entire video.
Being a vet does nothing for this comment, why say it?
AVOCADO! Thanks so much for your honesty and forthrightness with all of this. It’s very much appreciated.
Thank you for watching to the end! People like you make these videos possible!
Avocado! Thank you for the inspiration! I'm just getting started. So many things and so much that I would want to do, this is a great lesson on streamlining. And I'm pretty sure you're close by as the Top Dawg is just down the street. :)
Kimmie the word streamlining is the perfect way to put what I did. Yes top dawg has quite a few locations now I believe the closest to me now is Augusta GA. Thank you for watching!
Hey I picked one random person that commented Avocado and you are it! I have something I'd like to send to you, comment me your email address so I can get in touch.
Hey there please respond by March 14th or I gotta send this avocado off to the next winner.
@@ChadsCustomCreations Oh, my word! I had no idea I had won! I just saw this! I didn't even see the notification!
@@CraftHappens awww so sorry I was hopeful I would get in touch with you but I will let you know that the package went to a couple in FL who have had some bad luck and this really could help them out big time.
AVOCADO!! Excellent video and thank you for sharing and wonderful story on how you got back your time!
Thank you Patrick! Can’t believe I’ve never stumbled across your channel before great stuff keep up the great work! Just subscribed
@@ChadsCustomCreations Wow! Thank you kindly!
AVOCADO! Really, a lot of things to consider... With young children, time is something that doesn't really come back. Congratulations on your courage and for telling us your story! Hugs from Brazil!
You get it and I am glad I am realizing it while my children are still young.
Avocado. What a great pivot. Thanks for sharing so much with the world....
Michael thank you for saying that!
Congratulations! That was a brilliant move and a very well-done video. Thank you for sharing this excellent helpful information; now that I've retired from bail bonds, I plan to start a laser business even though I don't like avocados.
Thanks so much for saying that, I am glad to hear this was inspiring. Also I’ll take all the avocados you don’t want 😉
Taking the random odd jobs the big production ones!!!! YES YES YES the ones that money can be made on, that are worth doing, and the customer understands the work ( willing to pay for ) and number one mentally satisfying when complete. Good for you and you real customes!!!!!!
It’s the best way to go about it I have found.
Avocado!! Thanks for all the info. I am in the military and move around a lot, but I love to do custom projects for people. I definitely undervalue my time and quality of product. I'm looking to get into lazer engraving soon, and I appreciate all the info you are willing to share that others won't. I hope for continued success with your business and as a father of 3 myself, family time!!!
Thank you for your service both in the military and as a father of three!
Avocado, I was also making everything and also having lots of fun, I think I should follow in your footsteps. Thank you for showing me it can be done!!! Thank you!!
Lloyd it’s definitely fun but now I get to make stuff for myself and family and get the business done as fast as possible for more free time. I am lucky it’s working out for now.
Avacado. U r doing a Great job and building a loyal creative community. God bless u
It’s all the amazing people who watch my stuff that allow me to be able to share this stuff. I will continue to always try to bring value to those who support me in that way. God bless you too!
Avocado Thank you for the information and inspiration. You have no idea how much you've helped.
I am so happy to hear that!
Avocado, thank you for sharing not only your experiences and showing that downsizing is an ability. focus on 1 or 2 things and run with it. makes me think. thanks and good luck
Lawrence so glad to hear this was insightful for you! Thank you so much for watching!
Avocado! Thanks for this, yes I would love to see your process. Your approach makes so much sense in my situation.
You got it I’ve been collecting footage to show the whole process hopefully I’ll put it all together at some point.
@@ChadsCustomCreations That would be ace :-)
Avocado! I'm four months late but better late than never. Thank you for your openness, honesty, and transparency. Truly an inspiration. BTW, from Covington, Georgia here. Howdy 'Neighbor!'
Thanks for watching my Georgia friend, I am stuck in middle GA at the moment. If you are in need of a laser rotary I am doing a giveaway on the last video I did you still have time for that one.
Avocado! I'm enjoying your videos in the short time frame I've been watching. I like your honest take on the market and competition.
I appreciate that I am lucky to have you here as a viewer! Thank you for the support wishing you all the best.
Avocado- love your experience sharing- I have been teaching art and want to retire so I started my laser journey in the past week. I can see this working for me. Love your spirit.
As a former art teacher myself I totally get where you are coming from! I believe we have an upper hand because of the amount of creativity we have built up over the years. Gives us a good upper hand in developing products that sell.
Avacado! It is always interesting hearing from entrepreneurs, it is an adventure and hard work, it is freedom. What you shared is the most important lesson of all, be prepared to adjust and start all over! Good work! Have a happy life.
Thank you Anita your words mean more to me than I can express.
Avocado! Starting my business very soon and collecting what is working what isn't. Thank you for the wisdom!
So glad to hear this was helpful, this giveaway ended but there is still a few more days on this video’s giveaway ruclips.net/video/fCnQL3DcaC4/видео.htmlsi=NMaqr-SUVTiLW3kO
Avocado! Family is everything, and kids grow fast. You said the most important thing. Just being there doesn't matter if your mind is elsewhere. Memories feel like a dream when you are that busy. I recently stepped back from the chaos of success too. No regrets. I can always go back when my kids are grown. ❤
Jennifer I couldn’t have said it any better! You are absolutely right! Thank you for watching and joining in on the conversation.
Avocado Chad! Cheers! For sharing your experience with us. This is something most people will never do.
Thank you Clint I am a lucky man and am enjoying as much as I can!
Avocado! As someone looking into adding engraving to my 3d print business I found this video extremely useful.
So happy to hear that! I highly recommend adding a laser to your workshop!
Avacado! Thanks for all of the great information. Finding that one product that sells well is often the issue, but you nailed it.
Wendy thanks for entering the giveaway away sadly this one has ended but I am doing a 5w laser giveaway on my latest video now if you want to join.
ruclips.net/video/fCnQL3DcaC4/видео.html
Avocado...I really appreciate your thorough enlightenment regarding the Laser business. Proud of you!
Thank you for watching the whole thing. Wouldn’t be possible without people like you!
Avacado! I love your story and your full disclosure of your business and decision-making. You made the right decision in prioritising your family as they grow up so fast. Keep up the good work, and I wish you many more years of success!
Thank you so much, I am in a lucky position and I hope I can continue to enjoy it the way I have been especially while these little ones are still little.
Avacado! ThNKS FOR THE EXTRA EFFORT TO PUTTOGETHER A REALLY INFORMATIVE, WELL DONE, AND OBVIOULSY FOCUSED OVER TIME VIDEO!!
Thank you so much for the kind words, sadly this giveaway has ended but I am doing another giveaway on my last video if you want to join in.
ruclips.net/video/fCnQL3DcaC4/видео.html
Avocado! WOW..I came across your video by mistake but I'm glad I did. Following you as you are inspirational and I cant wait to get home to start using my laser to create new product. Thank You
So happy to hear we found each other. Thank you for joining along!
Avocado!! Your family is the most important thing in your business adventure! Enjoy your kids they grow so fast!
Thank you for watching! You are right they are growing faster and faster each year. I only get one shot with them. Businesses will come and go.
Avocado. This was a very inspiring video Chat. I’ve learned a lot from your video as well as making me think about my own business moving forward. Thank you very much and I wish you and your family the best.
I am so honored to hear that thank you for saying that and watching!
Avacado! I've been seeing and hearing (that ILTMS patreon is worth it) for year, and I just realized I'm right down the road from you I'm GA! Been pouring through videos before buying my first laser and yours were super helpful man! Much appreciated! Riches are in the niches! If you can keep it simple and still make $$ it's even more powerful. Congrats and keep it up!
Hello neighbor glad to hear this was helpful for you. Thank you for watching til the end!
AVOCADO! Nice business. I am retired and 70yrs old. I have a very small and cheap cnc router. I used it to make Christmas gifts for family a few years ago cutting into mirror tiles. It worked great after a little learning curve. I bought a small laser diode head for it. I have not tried it yet, but you inspired me to get it going... Don't worry I won't be any competition to you! LOL
I am so delighted to hear that! I did the same started with CNC router and went to lasers.
Avocado!!! Really appreciate your video. It was very informative and inspiring. I live in a small town and don't think I'll get gigs like you.
If in a small town I highly recommend putting yourself online, Etsy has allowed me to reach clients as far out as Austria.
Avocado! Thanks for the video. For a new engraver and new business that helps build prospective on the ups, downs and the real prospective on funning an engraving business. I love that you keep it real and aren't one of those folks that tells everyone that you make and tells everyone that you make millions like some gurus do.
Glad it was helpful! Glad you appreciated that, definitely not making millions just making a living and trying to live the best life I can.
AVACADO... I have a CNC and a laser and have been struggling for the last 2 years.... I now have clarity, Thank you sir
CNC and laser is a great pairing! You’ve got this I am glad this was helpful for you!
AvOcAdO! We love watching everyone of your videos. Your innovative creations, along with your inspirational mind makes you a cut above the rest.
The same goes for all of you! Thank you for milling up all of that lumber I brought you all. You guys rock!
Avocado Bro! I've just closed my custom laser and cnc routing work two weeks ago and gone with the 80/20 rule (Pareto Principle) with one big client (looking for more with set bulk runs) and finally (finally) being able to develop my own product lines that I've been dreaming of for 8 years now. I really appreciate you putting this vid out. Appreciated. Here's to seeing how I go in the coming year or three!
That is awesome! Sounds so very similar to my situation also. Wishing you the best!
Avocado from 🇵🇭! As a father (of 3) myself, I’m glad you’ve successfully transitioned your business with a model that allows you to spend more time with what matters most (your family, especially your growing kids). I’m also in the process of personally getting involved in our cnc workshop, and what you’ve shared in this video is a great time saver (learning from your experience), in positioning our business moving forward. 👍👍🍻
Ryan I feel I am a very blessed man in that I am able to do these things. I am so glad to hear what I shared was helpful I am wishing you all the success you can handle. Thank you for watching!
Avocado. Inspirational my brother. I am right now where you were with CCC and 17 hour days are wearing me out. I needed to see this as I redo my biz plan. Wish me luck and keep up the good, quality work!
Thank you for watching and I hear you man best of luck to you my friend!
Ty for the inspiration! I’ve been wanting to quit my job and pursue my own business again. You’re inspiring me to pursue this.
I am so glad to hear this is empowering you! I think we are all more capable than we give ourselves credit for!
Avocado! Thanks for sharing! You are a gem and a wonderful person for putting community over competition . Too few people in this world like you, A big hello from Australia! Wish you the very best!
Thank you so much, that means a lot to me especially coming from all the way over in Australia!
Avocado! The variety of jobs gave you skills that otherwise you would not have developed or enhanced. All this GAVE you more choices- Never regret experience --- embrace it. These new generations don't understand patience or true learning, they scream and demand you do things their way but they never had a variety of experience. Wisdom comes with experience (age).
Tim you’re absolutely right about that I feel very well rounded as maker now and the experience I gain from saying yes to all those jobs is actually priceless.
Avocados are inspirational- Oh no-that's you! this vid certainly shows people that whatever you create there are customers waiting for you
That is extremely nice of you to say that thank you!!!
Avocado, thanks for the honest video. Just starting out and trying to learn everything possible. This is my dream machine!
Welcome to the world of lasers thank you for watching the whole thing!
Avocado! Started on an XTOOL and grew my shop wood working capabilities quite a bit. Next... a bigger laser :) Thank you for this video!
Thanks for watching if you have the room for it definitely look into the RM 1390 it’s my current production machine.
Wanted to double comment here to also say this.
Your videos have been great at both curbing and elevating my expectations if I were to go the laser engraving or CNC path as a side business. Things have come a long way over the last decade.
It is great to find a craftsman channel instead of an influencer channel talking about shop tools.
Man I can’t tell you how much I appreciate that comment. Sometimes going to RUclips feels like going to a car dealership. I don’t mind looking at the new stuff but please can we all stop trying to sell anything and everything to the people who are supporting our channels already with their views.
Avocado- it’s people like you that make this world a better place! Great video, awesome information and a perfect example of community over competition!
That is so kind and encouraging for you to comment that thank you!!!
Avocado! I appreciate the community approach. Great insight as I adjust my approach to "retirement." Thanks.
I am extremely humbled by the community on here I will continue to do my best to try to bring value to those willing to invest their time with my videos on here.
AVOCADO!!! Thanks Chad, incredibly transparent and honest look at many dimensions that people can learn from. Your work looks quite impressive, across all stages of your career too. Best wishes to you and your family. Thanks for sharing.
That is very insightful and kind of you to say, thank you for watching!
AVOCADO! Thanks for sharing all of this. Been looking into pivoting into this type of business myself. Wish you all the success in the world Chad.
Thank you! You too!
AVOCADO! It’s not always about the money but it is always about family. Looks like you have found an amazing balance!
You’re right! For the moment I think I might just have here’s to hoping I can keep it going.
AVOCADO !!!! Dude you inspire me to step up my game ... Kinda getting lost in making way too many items. Instead of focussing on less items but selling more... great video thanks
Glad to hear it, I think we all fall into that no shame in it as it does make you a well rounded maker.
So inspiring, so beutifully explained, I wish you the best for your new business
Marta I am so happy to see you back again, it’s an honor to have you here. Thank you for the encouragement!
@@ChadsCustomCreations You think so? I think it is an honor to get to know your experience in first hand and that you remember my name, Chad. Today I publish a video about a small laser, small but a 40W powerfull, it is in Spanish... I know you don't need any new ideas, you have so many and have done everything, but I tell you about it because I enjoyed so much this adventure getting to know this machine and letting myself go, I see that letting you go in you, but in such a much bigger scale, and I understand why your passion didn't let you live!! My main mistake is trying to give the objects I make a finishing hand painted touch... because it was so much work time, but, at the end, it was so much enjoyment!
@@Fancylooks subscribed and notification set looking forward to watching it and practicing my Spanish.
@@ChadsCustomCreations Thank you, that is great help!
Avocados! You’re brilliant & very talented! Thanks for sharing the life lessons in this video!
Thank you for saying that and for watching til the end!
Avocado! I like the way you think and your approach to business and living a life!
I appreciate that, I know a lot of people on YT are pushing the hustle make all the money mentality but I am pushing the make a living and be happy ideology.
AVOCADO!!!! Enjoyed your video. Focusing on a couple items is smart. Focusing on the family even smarter.😍
Terry I love the way you put that, thank you!
Avocado, this was such a fun video to get through especially for someone who is wanting to get a laser. Thanks for being very transparent.
Jon, thank you for watching. It is my pleasure I hope this help anyone out there in someway.
AVOCADO!!! Dude awesome video, I am retired now and just want to start something I never got to do, served for 28 years in the Army and a school teacher for 25. but you made a great point about the type of business. Do little but Great! Anyway enjoy the family Sir
Thank you for your service both in the Army and as a teacher both I would consider battle grounds in their own ways.
Thank you so much for watching the whole video. I am amazed by everyone’s support this is such a great community we’ve got here I hope you continue to be apart of it.
Your Welcome Sir Thanks Take care@@ChadsCustomCreations
AVOCADO! Thank you for your content, it is good to know how others are doing in the business. Keep posting and I am looking forward to your Q code video.
Glad you enjoyed it Andy. Sadly this giveaway has ended, but I am giving away another laser if you want to join in on that one in my latest video.
ruclips.net/video/GHFWKfaUeuU/видео.html
AVOCADO. Great story, family first, we can't be all things to all customers. I learned a lesson, thanks for sharing.
You are so right! Thank you for watching!
AVOCADO!! I'm in year 2 of trying to start my engraving business. Thank you for the information and inspiration!
Juan it is my pleasure thank you for watching til the end!
Avocado! Keep going. I have a small diode laser and I do all word of mouth. I mostly to wood flags and I need something that can handle up to 36 inches. Diodes have worked for me because I can put it on top of my product and move to to the locations that I need. Looking to upgrade someday but for now this works. Keep up the good work and keep the videos coming. Thank you.
That sounds like a great gig Tod! I am a huge fan of the diode laser I think they will soon be top dog in the laser world. I just put out a video with the 70w diode and how it can cut metals it’s pretty crazy.
Avocado.
Thank you for the wonderful information. I would love to see your in-depth videos, your videos are so great.
Thank you for watching til the end! That’s super kind of you to say that thank you thank you!
AVOCADO! As somebody that is looking to add a laser cutter to my toolset and hopefully un-vacation my old Etsy store, I want to thank you for such wonderful insight into your process. It gives me a little more optimism in my decision to do this.
So glad to hear this was help for you. Wishing you the best.
Avocado! Thank you so much for sharing Chad, your work and dedication are amazing, and so is your generosity. I for one, would love to see how you do your QR codes, if you ever find the time to do it.
Francisco I would love to I am betting there are some insights I could share that would be quite helpful in furthering others business ventures.
Chad i would love to see your process for these. I really appreciate this video . Im in the same boat. I started my biz and shut it down a year later. I was struggling a bit since I offered too much. Now I'm re-opening and slimming down what I do as well. I appreciate you sharing.
Sorry.... Avocado!
Thank you for watching til the end. I have been compiling footage for a process video hopefully I can out something together eventually.
AVACADO!!!! GETA REAL JOB YOU HIPPY!!!!
Joe I am glad you liked that little joke glad to have you as a subscriber and more so as an active member of the conversation in the comments. Without you all this would seem pointless but you guys have got me energized to do more!
Avocado!!!....Well done..truly. it's a very inspiring tale...I will try to do my own steam and see what happens. It's hard work ofcourse but it's worth it. Take care.
You can do it Gordon, it is tough work but totally rewarding!
Great video! Time with your children especially while they’re little is priceless. 👍👍
You got that right!
AVACADO!!!! I recently picked up an Omtech Polar for the purpose to making a side business. I personally found this video helpful as I think I will embrace the one item done well instead of many. Thanks for the video and inspiration.
Glad it helped!
Avocado!
I have to learn focusing on less things too. Great lesson learned. Thanks.
Awesome to have you here thanks for sharing and joining in the comment community here.
Avocado!! Thanks for sharing. Appreciate you showing the revenue numbers. The other intangible is your possible improvement in work life balance. Best of luck!
Absolutely! Thank you for that and for watching!
Avocado! I’m a new subscriber, and so happy to have found your channel. I currently take every job being that I’m still growing after 5 years in the custom business with very low clientele..I have several machines including a xtool M1 laser engraver and want to focus more on building my laser skills. You have motivated me to take a step back if needed to reconstruct. I recently obtained a store location thinking that it would give me access to more paying customers. However, after a month there I am struggling to gain clients still. I just want to craft, help others, and make a living for my family. I am looking forward to learning more & more inspiration from you!🎉 Thank you!!
Tisha I am so glad you found me. Sounds like you’ve got a good thing going there, running a business is a roller coaster but it sounds like you have the grit to keep it going! I am wishing you the best!
I hope you're doing well,.. keep it lean and clean and keep pushing like there is no tomorrow! Keep on creating..
AVOCADO - Really well done video. You held my interest all the way through.
That is a huge compliment thank you for saying that!
Avocado!
I just bought my first laser cutter, not for business, just for building my own things. However, this video is really interesting.
Nice work!
Thanks for watching to the end! So happy to hear even though you’re not business oriented you still found this interesting!
Avacado! Nice work on getting the larger machine and getting a return quickly.
John thank you for watching til the end. It’s people like you that keep my channel alive!
Avocado very fascinating and i'm 65 years old and i've Subscribed always willing to learn something new .
Welcome aboard! It is an honor to have you!
@@ChadsCustomCreations Thank you
Watching you video is like me looking in the mirror . 13 years i have had a small sign shop and never said NO to jobs . Alot of hours spent learning to do things that making money . Now i have desided to stick to things i know how to do well and fast . I seriously feel i have grown up and im wiser . Good video ! And very inspiring! Thanks Chad. I have had my Rmlaser 1390 for a month now and love it !! Really going after the hotels with your ideas !! ❤
The amount of work that goes into custom signs is very underestimated! Glad you and I are making some pivotal changes to better ourselves. The RM1390 looks like such a great machine I would love to have that laser bed size and power!
Can you tell me how you went about ordering and paying for your laser? I currently have a quote from Angela and they want bank transfer but how do I have any guarantees?
@@joemalone3218 hey Joe yes Bank transfer is a common way to pay RM laser I have known many people who have done it and though it is scary it does come with no credit card fee. You can go check out the comments on my laser video showing the RM960 and you will see some others talking about it.
@@joemalone3218 I have spoken ith Angela and she is very helpful and patient.. go for it.
@@joemalone3218 you can trust Angela she is very good to communicate and very trustworthy.
Avocado 🥑 I’m just starting out with my laser business in Australia and you are so inspiring! Thanks Chad! 🇦🇺☺️
So happy to hear that Sara! Thank you for the support from across the world.
Avocado!! Most excellent, well done and love your philosophy as well. Also your attitude!!!
Robert thank you for the encouragement and watching til the end!
Avocado, dude! I've been thinking about getting into lasers for several years now. I've done custom, high-end woodwork off and on as a sideline from my day job as an engineer, but since I'm not a fast builder, it's not something I could make a living at. Just turned 60, and I'm thinking it's now or never! Your videos give a realistic picture of the lasering business, I believe, so I'm following!
I say do it Kevin I believe you’ll have no trouble figuring it out.
AVOCADO! I run a laser 'business' that has yet to find a good profit vs. effort ratio. Your video is inspiring. Great on the creativity and also finding a really smart niche!
I am very glad to hear this was helpful for you. I wish you all the best my friend!
Avocado, thank you for sharing. I appreciate the honest feedback and observations you make of your business. I can tell you will be successful at anything you pursue. One thing i wish you mentioned was time. You mentioned more family time, but how much? If you keep your income the same but double your free time, that might be more valuable than doubling your income!
I ran a home improvement business where I would take on any job, "we don't do yard work and we don't pick colors". I eventually ended up taking a day-job in engineering for the consistent income and I could always just cut my time off at 40 hours every week, but I still do side work that adds another 50% to my yearly take home, and have been looking at something that interests me that would be a hobby and income like CNC, prototyping, signmaking/laser engraving.
My pleasure thank you for watching and thank you for the encouraging words!
Avocado!! Great video. You’re a wealth of information and I appreciate your willingness to share.
My pleasure, I think I may secretly miss being an educator still and this is a good outlet for me to feel like a teacher again. Thank you for watching!
Avocado! :) I'm just a newbie bespoke pen maker and really impressed from your experience. I hope you can keep the growth and success. Wish you all the best, Cihan.
Thanks so much for watching!
Avocado. Thanks for the information and inspiration. 👍🏻Much appreciated
Jose thanks for watching!
Avocado. Great tips. So many people try to do a lot when focusing on a few items is smarter. Work smarter, not harder.
That’s it right there! Thank you for watching til the end!
Avocado? Here in Colombia it's "Aguagate".
Mr Chad. Im very surprised for your video cause you have inspired me to launch me in the laser world where I began with a small 4040 diode laser. Now, I have talked with your friend Ray and I'm in the way to purchase a J750 and I'm still saving money to get finally order it in October. I'm sure this is a wonderful bussines and néed to say thank you for the transparent way you show your experience to us.
Hope we can talk some day to tell you my experience.
Thank you forever Mr Chad.
That is so exciting to hear. My goal here on RUclips is to help inspire, and empower others to keep on creating. Thank you for sharing that with me. Best of luck with your future ventures!
Hey I’m in the same spot as you but my girls growing up every day, congrats and thank you for this video really helps a lot
Robert they grow up so dang fast. It’s a balance but I am definitely trying to invest in being their father while they still think I am cool 😂
Avocado!! Great work and glad you focused on your family and prioritized that! Blessings
Thank you for watching til the End Adam. It’s people like you that have made all of this possible.