OMTech Laser Business Stories: Keith Schlotthauer

Keith Schlotthauer's Story with Engraving Work

My name is Keith Schlotthauer. I’m the owner of Schlotdog Laser & Engraving. I have worked in the medical equipment industry for most of my career. That job taught me to be careful and precise. It also showed me how important quality and detail are. These lessons help me every day in my engraving work.

My interest in laser engraving began about four years ago. I received a wooden cruise itinerary as a gift. It was more than just a piece of wood. The design was beautiful, with clean lines and small details. I remember looking at it and thinking how simple materials could become something special. That moment inspired me.

I started learning about laser engraving step by step. I studied how the machines work and what materials are best to use. I enjoyed turning small ideas into real designs. Soon, I decided to start Schlotdog Laser & Engraving. Now, I use OMTech machines to create gifts, home décor, and keepsakes. Each piece shows my love for design and craftsmanship. 

Keith's Business

In my workshop, I use the OMTech 50W CO2 laser. It is a strong and reliable tool. It has never let me down. During the week, I work full-time in the medical equipment industry. When the weekend comes, I go straight to my workshop. That is my time to relax and create. I mostly work with wood that I buy from my local Home Depot. I like watching a plain piece of wood turn into something special through engraving.

Schlotdog Laser & Engraving is more than just a business to me. It is part of who I am. I have always liked building things with my hands. Laser engraving lets me mix art, design, and technology. Each project feels personal. It might be a sign, a gift, or a decoration for someone’s home. I also share my work online. On Etsy, I sell SVG files so others can use my designs. It makes me happy to know that my work reaches people I have never met.

I also join local craft fairs when I can. These events are always exciting. I meet customers face-to-face and talk about my work. I like hearing their stories and ideas. Seeing their smiles gives me real motivation. It reminds me why I started this path.

I earn approximately $6,000 annually through my laser engraving work, yet money is not my primary motivation. What truly matters is the joy of creating things with my own hands. Each laser engraving project I complete personally brings me a sense of pride and accomplishment that cannot be measured in monetary terms. Running a small business is no easy feat—the journey is fraught with challenges and missteps—but every step teaches me invaluable lessons. I've learnt patience, focus, and the resolve to persevere through adversity. Most crucially, I've come to understand that success requires time to mature, and that clear planning and vision are the decisive factors in determining one's fate.

Keith's Advice

To those who may be hesitant about starting their own business, my advice is simple: don't hesitate, just take the plunge.

The OMTech engraving machine has completely changed the way I approach creativity. It opened a door I didn’t even know existed—a space where art, technology, and craftsmanship come together. When I first started using it, I was amazed at how precise and versatile it was. It gave me the freedom to bring my ideas to life, no matter how simple or complex they were. Over time, it became more than just a tool. It became a part of my creative process, something I could rely on to turn imagination into something real. Whether you’re an experienced designer or someone who’s just beginning to explore, these machines can help you turn your vision into tangible creations that truly reflect your personality.

What I love most about engraving is the balance it brings to my life. During the week, I work full-time in the medical equipment field, which requires precision and focus. On the weekends, I step into my workshop and let creativity take over. It’s a completely different rhythm—one that keeps me grounded and inspired. Each piece I make tells a story, whether it’s a custom sign, a heartfelt gift, or a new design I’m testing for my Etsy shop.

Now, I want to encourage others to discover this same sense of fulfillment. If you’ve ever been curious about laser engraving, take that first step. Don’t overthink it—just start creating. The process itself is rewarding. OMTech machines make it easy to experiment, learn, and grow, even if you’re just starting out.

You can check out my work at Schlotdog Laser & Engraving on Etsy, where I share both finished pieces and digital SVG files. And if you’re already part of the OMTech community, I’d love to hear your story. Tell us about your own engraving journey and how OMTech has helped shape it. Your experience could inspire someone else to begin theirs.