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.

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.

Etching is possible on most any material or object that will fit within the extents of the engraving area of the laser machine, which are 32”x20”, with some exceptions. Objects as tall as 10” can fit in the machine as well.

*Objects and materials to be etched must be flat for best results.

*Anodized aluminum is the only metal that we can etch. We offer it in a range of color options.

*Standard metals cannot be etched, however we do offer a process of applying a matte black material that permanently bonds with the metal when etched over. Please inquire for more details.

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.

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

*We do not supply objects for the rotary.

Variable profile objects and items with large or heavy handles or protrusions may create problems with trying to secure and properly rotate the object. Please specify the details and/or provide us with a link to the item(s) you would like to rotary engrave. These may include cylindrical items such as glassware, ceramic mugs, coated, insulated thermoses (e.g. Yeti products or similar), wooden baseball bats, etc.

Most all types of wood are suitable for laser etching, including oiled woods, and many solid and sheet material wood laser cut very nicely and intricately as well. For large format and thicker wood, we recommend CNC routing it, especially if you prefer to not have a darkened edge, which is unavoidable when laser cutting.

Plywood sheets are available in a variety of wood finishes and varying cores, often utilizing wood veneer on the surface for finer finishes. Birch plywood is the most common, and can be stained before or after cutting and etching.

The best solid woods for cutting are oak, alder, and basswood, but we have had very good results with many other varieties without too much charring.

MDF is available for laser cutting in thicknesses up to 1/4”. Thicker MDF should be CNC routed.

Craft Plywood

Basswood

Balsa

MDF

Plywood List

Hardwood List

Beyond acrylic and wood, a wide variety of other materials are suitable for laser cutting and etching. Paper and other thin plastics are especially good, as well as leather, fabrics, rubber, cardboard, etc. If you are unsure, please inquire and provide us specific information on the material or product.

It is not possible to cut or etch any metals except anodized aluminum with the laser cutter. Anodized aluminum is available in a range of thicknesses and color options. Please inquire. Metal cutting options are available on the CNC router.

*Vinyl, polycarbonate, PVC, and any materials containing chlorine are toxic to laser cut and etch. If you prefer to use these products, we suggest CNC routing them.

Felt

Cloth

Rubber

Corrugated Cardboard

Museumboard

Chipboard

Bristol

Cardstock

Mylar/Vellum

Anodized Aluminum