Top 10 Reasons to Attend Blazering in Boulder

Laser engraving and sandcarving are powerful processes on their own. But when you bring them together, you open the door to deeper dimension, smoother finishes, and higher-value products your customers can see and feel. That is what Blazering is all about.

“Blazering is the real deal. A two-day, hands-on experience where you're not just watching... you're doing. You'll walk away with the knowledge, confidence and skills to start your own blasting journey.” - Josh Perry, 2025 Attendee

IKONICS Imaging has joined with GS2 Awards to host two-day, hands-on Blazering workshops throughout the year in Boulder, Colorado. Here are 10 reasons this workshop is worth the trip.

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1. Learn From Expert Instructors

Blazering in Boulder will be led by expert instructors Braden Todd, owner of GS2 Awards, and Peter Norman, Director of Sales for IKONICS Imaging. Together, they bring more than 40 years of industry experience to the classroom.

That means attendees are not just learning general theory. They are learning from people who understand real production challenges, real customer expectations, and real opportunities for growth in the awards, personalization, engraving, and sandcarving markets.

2. Understand Laser Engraving, Sandcarving, and How They Work Together

This workshop focuses on the innovative fusion of two distinct but complementary technologies: laser engraving and sandcarving.

You will learn how each process works, where each one shines, and how combining the two can help you create products with more depth, texture, and visual impact. For laser users, this is especially valuable because it shows how to move beyond a standard laser etch and into deep-carve effects that can help elevate your finished pieces.

CLOSER LOOK: For a closer look at how IKONICS Imaging supports this kind of hands-on learning, read more about hands-on sandcarving at events and workshops with IKONICS Imaging.

3. Get Real Hands-On Training

Blazering is not a sit-and-watch seminar. It is a hands-on technical workshop where you get time on the equipment and experience with the process.

Over the course of two full days, attendees will work with state-of-the-art equipment and learn by doing. That hands-on format helps build confidence faster because you are not just hearing about the process. You are making pieces, testing techniques, and seeing the results for yourself.

4. Take Home Everything You Make

One of the best parts of attending Blazering is that you leave with finished samples. Attendees typically take home 10 to 20 items made during class. These pieces can be used as display samples for your business, helping you show customers what is possible with laser engraving, sandcarving, and Blazering techniques.

That gives you more than training. It gives you sales tools you can bring back to your shop.

5. Learn Application Strategies for Blazer Orange and IKONICS Films

Mask selection matters, especially when you are combining laser engraving and sandcarving.

During the workshop, attendees will learn application strategies for Blazer Orange, IKONICS sandcarving films, and more. You will get a better understanding of how to prepare substrates, apply films, work through the process, and choose the right approach for different applications.

CLOSER LOOK: If you are interested in materials used for laser-assisted applications, explore IKONICS Imaging’s selection of laser mask films.

6. Learn Tips for Difficult Substrates

Some substrates are easy to work with. Others take more experience.

At Blazering in Boulder, attendees will learn tips and tricks for working with more challenging materials, including rocks, polished metals, hard ceramic glazes, curved substrates, and other surfaces that can be difficult with lasers alone.

This is where sandcarving can really expand your capabilities. By learning how to approach difficult substrates, you can say yes to more projects and offer more unique finished products.

7. Discover Ruby Software Hacks for Faster Production

Production efficiency matters, especially when you are trying to turn new techniques into profitable work.

This workshop will include Ruby software tips and workflow strategies designed to help expedite production. These practical shortcuts can help you save time, reduce frustration, and improve your process once you are back in your own shop.

8. Enjoy Breakfast and Lunch Each Day

Yes, the food is included. Breakfast and lunch will be served each day of the workshop, so attendees can stay focused on learning, making, and connecting. It is one more way the event is designed to give you a full, productive, and enjoyable two-day experience.

9. Visit Beautiful Boulder, Colorado

Boulder is a great place to learn, explore, and get inspired.

If you are traveling in for the workshop, consider extending your stay to enjoy the area. From the energy of Boulder to the beauty of the nearby Rocky Mountains, this event is a great excuse to turn a technical training trip into something even more memorable.

10. Build Your Network and Community

Blazering is also about connection. You will meet other business owners, makers, engravers, sandcarvers, and personalization professionals who are interested in growing their skills and expanding what they offer.

These are the kinds of industry connections that can continue long after the workshop ends.

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What Is Included?

Blazering in Boulder includes:

• Two full days of instruction
• Hands-on laser engraving and sandcarving training
• Lunch provided each day
• Networking opportunities
• The opportunity to keep all items made in class
• Discounts on equipment used during class

LIMITED SPACE: Space is limited to 40 students, so this is a focused learning environment with room for questions, practice, and personal instruction. Register for Blazering to reserve your spot.

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Ready To Get Hands-On with Sandcarving and Laser Engraving?

If you are ready to learn how laser engraving and sandcarving can work together to create higher-value products, Blazering in Boulder is the place to be.

Join IKONICS Imaging and GS2 for two days of hands-on training, expert instruction, real applications, and industry connection. Come ready to learn, make, ask questions, and have a blast.