FAQs

Below are commonly asked questions about the laser engraving process. If you have a specific question you don’t find answered here, don’t hesitate to ask us!

How is laser engraving different from standard engraving?

With the Fibermark and CO2 lasers, nothing touches the product. This allows for greater precision since there is no risk of motion or movement.

Also, the CO2 laser does not apply color. It can:

  • Extract color from dyed materials (i.e. denim,  linens)
  • Burn on marking materials to reflective products (i.e. stainless steel or tin)
  • Surface mark materials (i.e. leather or wood)
  • Cut or engrave materials to accommodate a color fill (i.e. acrylic, stone, corian, marble)

The Fibermark laser can also do some of the above, but most importantly can mark metals in varying degrees of shading from grey to black, depending on the material, without using marking solutions.

What types of materials can you engrave?

Barring hazardous materials, there are few exceptions to the type of materials that lend themselves to laser engraving. Click here to see a list of suggested engraving materials.

Utilizing the CO2 laser, metals (and other reflective products) require a marking solution. Because the marking solution can affect the finish of certain metals, it is generally not recommended for fine silver. However, with the Fibermark and rotary stylus engravers, we are able to provide services for engraving of fine metals as well, a true win-win for our clients.

What are minimum and maximum item sizes you can engrave?

We have the capacity for large scale pieces with a width up to 3′, a depth up to 21.5″, and an unlimited length (depending on the weight and whether it can be lifted through the machine).

For example, on the large end we could accommodate a door, tabletop, or signage. For small items, such as pens or cigarette lighters, we can custom-build special fixtures to hold the items while incorporating fine detail.

If I engrave plates or other serve-ware, will it still be food safe?

Yes! The process of laser application to ceramics does result in a food safe product. Historically, the only way to personalize ceramics and ensure that it was food safe was to apply the personalization prior to glazing. While we are now able to do so post production, the colors are limited.

Using a combination of laser and rotary engraving, we can also engrave crystal, silver, bronze, and other fine metals.

What is the typical turnaround time for engraving services?

Custom projects can be bid quickly. Depending on the size of your project and number of items, we strive for a 48 hour turnaround. Prior to completing a project, we provide a prototype.

Located in Dallas-Fort Worth, you can take advantage of our courier services for rapid delivery. We can also ship product or accommodate pickups at our location.

Will you engrave single items or do orders have to be for multiple pieces?

We do not require minimums!

Do I buy products from you to engrave or can I bring you a product I already own?

Both. We can act as a resource to acquire product for you or we’re happy to receive product you own. We can transform a used piece into something totally new!