Engraving FAQ

  • What’s the difference between laser engraving, etching, and cutting?

    Laser Engraving removes material to create deep markings or color change.

    Etching changes the surface without deep cuts (common for metal).

    Cutting goes all the way through a material (like wood or acrylic).

  • What materials can be laser engraved?

    Common materials: wood, acrylic, glass, metal (with coating or pre-treatment), leather, stone, and some plastics.

    Some materials (like PVC) release toxic fumes and shouldn’t be engraved.

  • What types of items do you sell that can be engraved?

    We sell many items at our store and they are always changing or being added to.  These items include Zippo Lighters, Knives, Pens, Wine Glasses, Beer Mugs, Champagne Glasses, Pet Tags, Glass Trophies, Trophy Cups, Sports Trophies, medals, Stainless Steel Drinkware and much more.

  • How much does laser engraving cost?

    Pricing varies based on material, size, complexity, and time required. Send us a message and we’ll be happy to give you a price quote.

  • How long does laser engraving take?

    This all depends on our current work-load at the time of your engraving request; we strive to complete your engraving projects in a timely manner.

  • What file formats do I need for laser engraving?

    Preferred: Vector files (SVG, AI, DXF, EPS as well as high-resolution  BMP, JPG & PDF files – our system does NOT support PNG files).

  • Can I bring my own item for engraving?

    You absolutely can bring in your own item for engraving.

  • Can I engrave photos or images?

    Yes, but they need to be high contrast and properly processed (grayscale or bitmap).

  • Is laser engraving permanent?

    Yes! It alters the material’s surface and won’t fade or wear off easily.

  • Are there any items you won’t engrave?

    We do not do inside ring engraving, only engraving on signet rings.  Sometimes if the item is too small we aren’t able to safely secure it in our engraving.  We also have a size restriction on how large items can be depending on the type of engraving we are doing.

  • How detailed can laser engraving be?

    Our laser can engrave very fine details.

    The result depends on material, laser power, and resolution settings.

  • Can laser engraving be colored?

    Standard laser engraving is monochrome.

    Some materials (like anodized aluminum, laser aluminum and nametag materials) allow color changes.

  • Can laser engraving be done on curved surfaces?

    Yes, with a rotary attachment, cylindrical objects (like tumblers or glasses) can be engraved.

  • Does laser engraving weaken the material?

    Generally no, but deep engravings on thin materials may cause structural weakness.

  • Can laser engraving be removed or fixed?

    It’s permanent, but mistakes can sometimes be covered up (e.g., by engraving deeper or filling with paint).