laser

precision cutting + etching

  • Profile Cutting

    Laser cutting is a precise method of cutting a design from a given material using a CAD file to guide it. Our CO2 machines cut by burning a very fine line through the material. A really fine level of cutting detail can be achieved on a wide range of materials, however CO2 lasers cannot cut through metals and several other very hard materials.

    *While we do list anodized aluminum as a material, it can only be etched.

    Etching

    Laser etching differentiates from laser cutting in that it does not cut all the way through the material, but rather cuts into the material at shallow depths. The achievable depth varies based on the material, as well as the tone of the etching. Etching is often done on wood or paper, but creates monochromatic results on acrylic and other plastics as well.

    *While etching in color is not possible, we can etch and paint fill the etching, or for some applications, a two-tone material is available where etching away a top color exposes another color beneath.

    Rotary Etching

    Rotary etching involves the use of a machine attached to the laser cutter that cradles cylindrical objects and rotates them in coordination with the laser to enable consistent etching all the way around the object. These items often include glassware such as wine glasses and bottles, beer bottles, and drinkware, but can also include coffee mugs, and coated metal tumblers.

    While etching in color is not possible, we can possibly etch and paint fill the etching.

  • Vector

    Laser cutting requires a vector drawing to have a path to cut along. Common file types are .dwg, .ai, .3dm, .dxf, and *.eps, created in programs such as Adobe Illustrator, AutoCAD, Rhino, etc.

    A raster (image) file cannot be used to cut, and must be converted to vector file for quoting and cutting. Please let us know if you need assistance with this.

    Raster

    Raster (image) or vector (drawing) files are acceptable for etching. Using a vector file, the machine will trace the linework, creating a finer finish. Etching a raster file makes horizontal passes (up to 1200dpi) and automatically adjusts the depth of cut based on grayscale values of each pixel, black being the deepest.

    Raster (image) or vector (drawing) files are acceptable for rotary etching, but cannot exceed the circumference of the object in the location where you would like to etch.

laser MATERIALS

While wood and plastic are most common, our router is powerful enough to cut through many non-ferrous metals and many other very hard materials. Please inquire about additional materials not listed below.

A selection of plywood options for laser cutting. Typical max thickness for cutting through is 3/8”, however some softer woods can be cut at 1/2” thickness. Any thickness is appropriate if only etching.

Filter by type of wood, thickness, etc.

A selection of hardwood options for laser cutting. Typical max thickness for cutting through is 3/8”, however some softer woods can be cut at 1/2” thickness. Any thickness is appropriate if only etching.

Filter by type of wood, thickness, etc.

A wide selection of plastic options for laser cutting. Typical max thickness for cutting through is 1/2”. Any thickness is appropriate if only etching.

Filter by type of plastic, thickness, color, etc.

Sort the order you would like them displayed.

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HOW DOES IT WORK?

  • If you have prepared files you would like to submit for quote, you can upload them for us to take a look at and give you feedback. Laser Cutting and CNC routing requires a drawing (vector file) for processing through the machine. If you're unable to provide a vector file for cutting, we can likely assist you for an additional fee.

  • We are able to source and provide materials as necessary for most projects, however projects requiring special materials may require you to supply the material yourself. Please see our materials pages for a sample list of available materials.

  • We'll evaluate your files and provide you with a quote based on the material and amount of time required to cut your project.

  • After approval, we'll run the job and send you notification when they're ready. You can then pay your invoice online and pick up at your convenience!

If you have an idea in mind and would like help creating your design, please email us your thoughts and we will help get you going. Email us.

Have your files ready to go?

Rhino

AUTOCAD

ILLUSTRATOR

We've put together simple templates that you can download to help you setup your file by organizing the cuts and work within the maximum sheet size.