Laser engraving etches a permanent mark into the surface of a material by removing or discolouring a thin layer with a focused laser beam. It produces precise, repeatable detail on hard and flexible substrates. We produce laser engraving in-house at our Marrickville production facility.
What is laser engraving
Laser engraving uses the same equipment as laser cutting but at a lower power setting. Instead of cutting through the material, the beam removes or darkens a thin surface layer, leaving a permanent etched image.
The depth and contrast of the engraving depend on the material and the laser settings. Wood darkens. Acrylic frosts. Anodised metal reveals the base layer beneath the surface coating. Each material produces a characteristic engraved appearance.
When to use laser engraving
Laser engraving suits personalisation, branding and decorative marking. Common applications include branded merchandise, awards and trophies, signage panels, architectural wayfinding elements, gift boxes, bottle labels and promotional items.
Because the mark is permanent and resistant to wear, engraving is appropriate for items that will be handled, displayed outdoors or used repeatedly. It does not fade, peel or rub off.
Materials
We engrave wood, bamboo, acrylic, perspex, anodised aluminium, leather, cork, cardboard and some plastics. Results vary by material. We produce test engravings on unfamiliar substrates before committing to production.
Design considerations
Artwork is supplied as vector paths or high-resolution raster images. Vector artwork produces the cleanest results for text and line work. Raster images allow tonal variation (photo engraving) on materials like wood and acrylic.
Minimum detail size depends on the material. Hard surfaces like acrylic hold finer detail than soft materials like leather. We advise on achievable detail at the quoting stage.
How we produce laser engraving
The artwork is loaded, the material is positioned on the laser bed, and the beam traces the design at the specified depth and speed. Multiple items can be engraved in a single session if they fit on the bed.
Turnaround is fast for short runs and prototypes. Larger batches are scheduled to ensure consistent quality across all pieces.
Need permanent branding or personalisation on a product, award or sign? Get in touch to discuss laser engraving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between laser engraving and laser cutting?
Cutting goes through the material. Engraving removes only the surface layer. Both use the same laser equipment at different power settings.
Can I engrave photographs?
Yes, on suitable materials. Wood and acrylic hold tonal variation well. The image is converted to a halftone or dithered pattern for engraving.
Is laser engraving permanent?
Yes. The mark is etched into the material surface. It does not fade, peel or wash off under normal use.
Can I personalise individual items?
Yes. Each item can carry a different name, number or message. Variable data is handled through the artwork file with no additional tooling cost.
What is the minimum order?
Single units are commercially viable. There is no tooling, so prototypes and one-off items are straightforward.