Behind the Laser:  An Interview with the Owner of Forging Flamingo

Behind the Laser: An Interview with the Owner of Forging Flamingo

What started as a hobby and some creativity has grown into a full-blown business - get to know the hands (and heart) behind the name.  

Q: Who are the hands behind Forging Flamingo?

Hi! I’m Derek Crawford, the maker, engraver, designer, and all-around creative mind behind Forging Flamingo.  I started this business with a laser and a dream, and now I get to create customized goods for some truly amazing customers.  

Me and my workhorse.

Meet "TikiTorch" the Aeon Mira 7, 

my go-to laser engraver!

 
Forging Flamingo Owner standing next to a laser cutting machine in an office setting

Room with storage shelves, a desk, and various items including a laser, 3D printer, printers & scanner.

My current workspace.

Don't be fooled by this "Bedroom" - great things happen in here!   

Q: What inspired you to start engraving?

I started this as a hobby.  Between jobs at the time, I was looking for an outlet to satisfy my creative side.  For years, I had watched other makers create incredible things.  Then on Amazon Prime Day, I saw a deal on a laser and decided to go all in. I purchased an XTool D1 Pro.  Soon I was making cool things for friends & family, and it quickly snowballed from there.

Q: Why the name Forging Flamingo?

This is a question I get a lot.  My husband and I lived on Flamingo Way.  We started receiving all kinds of Flamingo-themed items.  It kind of became our unofficial spirit animal.  So when it came time to brainstorm ideas for a business name, we knew it had to include "Flamingo".  After lots of candidates we ended up with "Forging"- a word that speaks to creating, shaping and building something from nothing.  

Q: How did you end up selling digital designs?

When I started out on Etsy I needed a way to get noticed.  I started selling digital designs.  It was a way for customers to gain some trust in me and my products.  While someone might not take a chance on purchasing an expensive item from someone with no reviews or reputation, they are more likely to take a chance on something small.  I slowly built my customer base and earned positive reviews.  That is what got me to where I am today.  Now customers have confidence and trust the quality of my work and feel confident when purchasing from my shop.

Working in my design software

Q: What makes your designs stand out?

I am obsessed with attention to detail.  I try to think outside the box when designing.  I try to design things that, while might not appeal to everyone, are exactly what someone out there is looking for.  My designs can be quite unique and thoughtfully designed.  I test every design before I ever offer it for sale.  What looks good on paper does not always translate perfectly when engraved, so I make tweaks until it is just right.  Every product that leaves my doorstep must meet my high standards-no exception.  

Forging Flamingo owner using a computer in front of a large laser engraver with a pink flamingo decoration. Forging Flamingo owner operating a laser engraving machine with a pink flamingo decoration.

Q: What's next for Forging Flamingo?

We're just getting started.  While tumblers and tumbler designs were my jumping off point, there's so much more in the works.  I have been expanding the business - adding new equipment, testing new materials - so I can offer even more cool products.  Have something in mind, Don't hesitate to reach out.  I love turning ideas into reality!   

 

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