Laser Digest - February 14, 2026
Published
Cricut officially released the EasyPress SE on February 6, 2026, available in 9x9 and 12x10-inch sizes with native DTF transfer compatibility alongside HTV, Infusible Ink, and sublimation. Glowforge continues its post-restructuring software push, with Snapmarks precision alignment now shipping to all Pro and Plus users. OMTech's Santa Ana showroom is now open for walk-in demos across its full product line including laser, DTF, UV, and embroidery machines.
Cricut EasyPress SE Launches with Native DTF and Sublimation Support
Cricut has released the EasyPress SE, its latest heat press available in 9x9 and 12x10-inch sizes. The SE is designed as a universal press compatible with HTV (iron-on), Infusible Ink, sublimation, and Cricut's new DTF Transfers service. Cricut DTF Transfers launched January 14, allowing users to design full-color transfers in Design Space and order ready-to-press sheets — no weeding, no DTF printer required.
This is Cricut's play to own the entire 'design-to-garment' pipeline without requiring users to buy a DTF printer. By combining the EasyPress SE with their DTF Transfers service, a hobbyist can go from Design Space to finished t-shirt for under $500 total investment. The 75-wash durability claim puts these on par with budget DTF printers. For laser makers who also do apparel, this is a compelling side tool that doesn't require learning a new workflow.
💡What this means for you
EasyPress SE: Even heat distribution, digital temp control to 400F, auto-shutoff. Available in 9x9 ($99) and 12x10 ($129). Compatible with Cricut DTF Transfers (ordered via Design Space, no printer needed). DTF transfers rated for 75+ washes.
Market Position: Positions Cricut as a full garment-decoration ecosystem competitor. Competes less with xTool's laser DTF approach and more with standalone DTF printers like the Epson F2270.
- Per-transfer cost vs owning a DTF printer long-term
- Whether third-party DTF transfers work with EasyPress SE
- Heat uniformity compared to larger clamshell presses
⏸️ Wait if: You already own an Autopress or a dedicated DTF printer
✅ Buy if: You want to add apparel capability with minimal investment and no learning curve
Glowforge Accelerates Post-Restructuring Software Push with Snapmarks
Three months after its ABC restructuring, Glowforge continues shipping software updates at an accelerated pace. Snapmarks — the long-awaited precision alignment feature — is now enabled for all Pro and Plus users. Combined with the recently launched Box Builder AI tool and vector Combine operations, Glowforge is signaling that the restructured team is focused on closing feature gaps that frustrated users for years.
Snapmarks was one of the most requested Glowforge features since 2018. The fact that the post-restructuring team shipped it within three months suggests the leaner organization is moving faster than the pre-bankruptcy, 150-person company. For the maker community, this answers the biggest concern about the restructuring: is Glowforge still developing its product? The answer appears to be yes, and possibly faster than before. The extended warranty program through 2029 also signals confidence in hardware longevity.
💡What this means for you
Snapmarks uses camera vision to detect printed registration marks for sub-millimeter alignment on pre-printed or pre-cut materials. Box Builder uses generative AI for parametric box design with auto-tabbing. Extended warranty available through 2029 for all active units.
Market Position: Glowforge is repositioning from 'easiest laser' to 'most capable cloud laser.' Snapmarks closes a key gap vs LightBurn's built-in registration. Still cloud-dependent, which remains a concern for some users.
- Reliability of Snapmarks on non-Glowforge materials
- Whether offline mode is on the roadmap
- Long-term viability of cloud-only architecture post-restructuring
⏸️ Wait if: You need offline operation or are concerned about cloud dependency
✅ Buy if: You value ease-of-use and the Glowforge ecosystem, and Snapmarks was your missing feature
OMTech Santa Ana Showroom Now Open for Walk-In Demos
OMTech has opened its official showroom at the Santa Ana, California headquarters, offering live demonstrations across its full product line. Visitors can test laser engravers, DTF printers, UV printers, and embroidery machines with no appointment required. The showroom also serves as a pickup point for local orders, eliminating shipping wait times for Southern California customers.
A physical showroom is a significant investment for a brand that built its reputation on Amazon value pricing. This move directly addresses the #1 barrier to buying a laser engraver: 'I want to see it in person before spending $1,000+.' For OMTech, it also creates an opportunity to upsell from their entry-level machines (K40 class) to their higher-margin Pro series. The inclusion of DTF and embroidery machines confirms OMTech's pivot from 'laser company' to 'maker ecosystem' — directly competing with xTool's multi-tool strategy.
💡What this means for you
Showroom at OMTech HQ, Santa Ana, CA. Full product line on display. Walk-in demos available. Local pickup option for online orders. Staff includes technical specialists for laser setup guidance.
Market Position: First major showroom from a value-tier laser brand. Competing with Epilog's established dealer network and Glowforge's retail presence at Joann stores. Signals OMTech's intent to move upmarket.
- Whether satellite showrooms are planned in other US cities
- Showroom-exclusive pricing or bundles
- Availability of hands-on training sessions or workshops
⏸️ Wait if: You're not in Southern California — no current plans for remote showrooms announced
✅ Buy if: You're in SoCal and want to test before you buy, especially comparing CO2 vs fiber vs diode
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cricut EasyPress SE?▼
The EasyPress SE is Cricut's latest heat press, available in 9x9 and 12x10-inch sizes. It supports HTV, Infusible Ink, sublimation, and Cricut's new DTF Transfers service, making it a versatile single press for multiple decoration methods.
Are Glowforge Snapmarks available for all users?▼
Snapmarks are now enabled for all Glowforge Pro and Plus users. The feature uses camera vision to detect printed registration marks for precise alignment on pre-printed or pre-cut materials.
Can I visit the OMTech showroom without an appointment?▼
Yes. The OMTech showroom at their Santa Ana, California headquarters is open for walk-in visits. You can demo laser engravers, DTF printers, UV printers, and embroidery machines, and pick up online orders locally.