How to Prepare and Send Your Artwork for Laser Engraving

Follow this simple guide to prepare your image, logo, or text file correctly for engraving or cutting on our Full Spectrum Laser RE3 system.

Raster vs. Vector — What’s the Difference?

Raster (for Photos, Shading, Engraving Images)

  • Made of pixels (like photos)
  • Best for engraving grayscale images or textures
  • Formats: .jpg , .png , .bmp
  • Should be 8-bit grayscale for best results

Vector (for Logos, Outlines, or Cut Paths)

  • Made of paths and curves
  • Best for logos or designs needing sharp, scalable edges
  • Formats: .svg , .ai , .eps , .pdf
  • Use solid black lines for engraving; red lines for cuts

Raster Image Setup (for photos or writing)

  1. Open your image in Photoshop, GIMP, or similar software .
  2. Convert to 8-bit Grayscale : Image → Mode → Grayscale → 8-bit.
  3. Adjust brightness/contrast to make engraving details stand out.
  4. Save as .png or .jpg (300 DPI or higher recommended).
  5. Send the file with your desired engraving size and material type .

Vector File Setup (for logos, outlines, or cut paths)

  1. Create or open your logo in Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or Inkscape .
  2. Convert all text to outlines/paths .
  3. Use solid black (RGB 0,0,0) for engraving areas.
  4. Use red (RGB 255,0,0) for cut lines if needed.
  5. Export or save as .svg , .ai , or .pdf .
  6. Include your cut/engrave instructions when sending the file.

How to Send Your File

Once your artwork is ready, email it to us or upload it through our contact form. Please include:

  • Your name and order number (if applicable)
  • File type ( Raster or Vector )
  • Desired engraving size (in inches or mm)
  • Material type (wood, metal, acrylic, etc.)
  • Any specific placement or cutting instructions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ✅ Use high-resolution images (300 DPI or higher)
  • ❌ Don’t send screenshots or low-res photos of your logo
  • ✅ Convert all fonts to outlines before sending vectors
  • ❌ Don’t send Word, PowerPoint, or Excel files