Laser Engraving

Related FAQs

• What is the engraving process on the machines?

  Laser engraving machines can have a number of different processes for engraving, but for the most part:

  1. The engraving design is keyed into a computer software like CorelDraw.
  2. The object to be engraved is placed within the laser tray.
  3. The laser engraving machine is then properly focused on the surface of the object.
  4. The power of the laser beam is set depending on the thickness of the material (whether wood, acrylic etc.).
  5. The laser operator starts the selected engraving process on the computer.
  6. The machine activates the laser and passes over the desired marking area on the surface of the material/object..
  7. The engraving is removed from the machine once it is completed, and engraving residue (soot, metal shards, etc.) is removed from the surface of the object.
  8. Voila!

• How do laser engraving machines work?

  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8xaVlG0_Qg&t=3s (possible video link to insert)

  Laser engravers are specifically designed to focus laser light for the purpose of engraving wood, metal, glass, or some other material with a preselected engraving—often images or script. The machine uses lasers to produce concentrated heat that removes the top layer of material, cutting it from an item to create the desired design. The light is focused at the right distance and set to the right power level in order to leave a mark. Too little power and it will not end up cutting into the material, too much and you can burn through the object.

• How long does it take to laser engrave?

  Laser Engraving can take anywhere from 5 seconds to multiple hours. Quite a few factors need to be taken into account such as the material being engraved, the size of the design, and the power of the laser to name a few. 

  Though the actual process of engraving may be relatively quick, there may be multiple, longer steps involved in preparing the engraving such as rendering the design into the computer software, prepping the material being engraved, and removing any unwanted residue after the engraving process.

• Can I buy materials from the library to use with the laser engraver and CNC Router?

  Yes, we sell 12” x 24” sheets of wood and acrylic that can be used with our machines. Wood sheets cost $5 +tax and acrylic sheets cost $19 +tax.

• Can I bring my own materials to use with the laser engraver?

  Customers can bring their own materials to use with our laser engraver however, we ask that you check with staff to ensure your material will be compatible with our machines before starting your project.