This is a what-to-look-for guide with links to browse on Amazon.ca. The products were not tested by this site. For the businesses themselves, see the 3D printing side hustle, 3D printing startup costs and laser engraving.
What should you look for in a 3D printer?
| Spec | What it means | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | FDM melts filament; resin cures liquid with light | FDM for most products; resin for miniatures and jewellery masters |
| Build volume | Largest part it can print | Big enough for your best-selling item |
| Auto bed levelling | Machine calibrates the print bed | Saves failed prints and setup time |
| Enclosure | Cover around the print area | Steadier temperatures, contains fumes and particles |
| Materials | PLA, PETG, ABS/ASA, TPU | Check the hotend and bed temperatures support what you plan to use |
| Speed and reliability | Real-world print speed, not just the headline | Look for a large user community and spare parts in Canada |
What should you look for in a laser engraver?
| Spec | What it means | What to look for |
|---|---|---|
| Laser type | Diode (common, lower cost) vs CO2 (glass tube, faster cutting) | Diode for engraving wood and leather; CO2 for acrylic and volume cutting |
| Optical power | Output power of the laser module | Compare optical, not input, power |
| Work area | Largest piece it can engrave | Fits your coasters, signs or cutting boards |
| Enclosure | Box around the laser | Strongly preferred at home: contains light and smoke |
| Air assist and exhaust | Blows smoke away; vents fumes outside | Cleaner cuts and safer air |
| Safety features | Flame detection, emergency stop, lid interlock | The more the better for a home shop |
Which machine suits which products?
| Machine | Good for | Watch out for | Browse |
|---|---|---|---|
| FDM 3D printer | Organizers, cosplay parts, planters, custom parts | Print time per item | See options on Amazon.ca |
| Resin 3D printer | Miniatures, detailed figures | Resin handling, gloves, ventilation | See options on Amazon.ca |
| Diode laser engraver | Wood signs, coasters, leather patches | Slow cutting; needs enclosure | See options on Amazon.ca |
| CO2 laser | Acrylic, faster production cutting | Size, cost, venting | See options on Amazon.ca |
What else do you need to start?
What should Canadian makers know before buying?
- Ventilation and fumes. CCOHS lists fumes from materials as a laser hazard and recommends local exhaust ventilation; its 3D printing fact sheet covers emissions too.
- Eye protection. Laser glasses must match the laser’s wavelength; generic sunglasses do not protect.
- Never leave a laser running unattended. Materials can catch fire.
- Recalls. Check models on Recalls and safety alerts.
- Taxes. Machines used for business are generally claimed through capital cost allowance.
Which guides help you sell what you make?
Read Etsy shop startup costs, craft market booth gear, Square vs SumUp vs Shopify POS and Stallion Express vs Chit Chats vs Canada Post.
What are the common questions?
Should I buy a 3D printer or a laser engraver first?
Choose by product. If you plan to sell three-dimensional objects, start with an FDM 3D printer. If you plan to sell personalized flat goods such as signs and coasters, start with an enclosed diode laser.
Is resin or filament better for a side hustle?
Filament (FDM) suits most sellable items and is easier to handle. Resin gives finer detail but needs gloves, careful cleanup and ventilation.
Is a diode laser safe to use at home?
It can be used more safely with an enclosure, exhaust venting to the outside, wavelength-matched eye protection and a fire extinguisher nearby. Never leave it running unattended.
What is the difference between optical and input power on a laser?
Input power is what the module draws; optical power is the laser output that actually engraves. Compare optical power between machines.
Can I deduct a 3D printer or laser on my taxes?
Equipment used to earn business income is generally claimed through capital cost allowance on Form T2125. This is general information, not tax advice.
Which sources support this guide?
The rules, rates, and platform requirements in this guide are checked against these primary sources. Retail price ranges are labelled as ranges to verify locally, and they are not quotes.
- Lasers - Health Care — Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
- Safety Hazards - Additive Manufacturing — Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
- Claiming capital cost allowance (CCA) — Canada Revenue Agency
- Recalls and safety alerts — Government of Canada