Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process like?

Using your vectorized file, we will create a custom quote exclusively tailored to your file. Subsequently, we will send you the pricing details and estimated turnaround time, followed by a digital invoice. Once the payment is received, your project will be handed over to our production team, who will procure the necessary materials and carry out the project. When it's ready for pickup or shipment, we'll notify you via email.

What is your maximum bed size?

The largest laser bed size we have available measures 4 feet by 8 feet.

What materials can you cut with your laser cutting machines?

We offer laser cutting services for a variety of materials, including acrylic, wood, leather, fabric, textiles, cardboard, paper, matboard, rubber, as well as fruits and vegetables. For more detailed information, please visit our materials section.

What is the maximum thickness of material your laser cutters can handle?

The maximum thickness for materials that we can laser cut is 1/2-inch for both acrylic and wood.

What file formats do you accept for design files?

Accepted file formats: .ai, .pdf, .svg, .dxf, .eps, .dwg, .3dm

What is the cost of laser cutting services, and how is it determined?

We calculate our service charges based on laser time, with a rate of $2.5 per minute.

It's important to note that due to our large format setup, there is a minimum billing duration of one hour.

What is the turnaround time for a typical laser cutting project?

In a typical week, our standard service usually has a general turnaround time of 4-5 business days, while our express service typically takes 1-3 business days. Please be aware that the turnaround time may vary depending on the studio current workload and the specific requirements of your file.

Can you provide custom design and prototyping services in addition to cutting?

Absolutely, we have a dedicated designer on our team who can help you with file preparation. Please send us any images, sketches, or references you have so that we can promptly offer you a quote.

Do you have a minimum order quantity or a minimum charge?

We advise a minimum order requirement because our experience has shown that it is more cost-effective. This minimum order consists of 1 hour of production, priced at $150 per hour.

Are there any design limitations or guidelines I should be aware of?

Indeed, we ask for a minimum spacing of 1/4 inch from the material's edge to your design. This requirement is essential to ensure a precise fit of your design within the material and to avoid potential issues like melting or unintended fire.

Why are your vector lines color code important?

The color-coding of vector lines in your design file is important for several reasons:

Material Processing Instructions: Different colors can be used to indicate specific processing instructions for various parts of your design, such as cutting, engraving, or scoring. This helps the laser machine operator understand how to treat each element.

Cutting and Engraving Depth: By assigning colors to specific actions (e.g., red for cutting, black for engraving and blue for scoring), you can specify the depth and intensity of the laser for different parts of the design. This allows for precise control over the final product's appearance and functionality.

Efficiency: Properly color-coded vector lines streamline the laser cutting process. The machine operator can quickly identify the intended actions for each part of the design, reducing setup time and minimizing errors.

Do you offer shipping or local pickup options for the finished pieces?

Certainly! We provide the option for both shipping and local pickup. If you're interested in obtaining a shipping quote, please share your address with us via email, and we'll promptly provide you with a shipping cost estimate. If you prefer local pickup, we will coordinate with you to schedule a suitable date and time for you to collect your project once it's ready.

Can you provide references or examples of previous laser cutting projects?

Absolutely! Please feel free to send us an email with your specific preferences, and we'll be more than happy to provide you with direct examples relevant to your project. While you wait, you can also visit our Instagram page to browse through our previous projects for inspiration.

Are there any special considerations for working with specific materials, such as acrylic, or wood?

Working with different materials in laser cutting does require special considerations to achieve optimal results. Here are some specific considerations for acrylic, and wood:

Acrylic:
- Edge Quality: Acrylic can melt during cutting, so optimizing cutting speed and power settings is crucial for smooth, flame-polished edges.
- Material Thickness: Thicker acrylic may require multiple passes to cut through completely.
- Masking: Applying masking tape to the acrylic's surface helps reduce heat marks and residue.
- Ventilation: Adequate ventilation is important to remove fumes produced when cutting acrylic.

Wood:
- Wood Type: Different wood types have varying densities and grain patterns, which affect cutting quality. Some woods may release resin when cut, which can affect the laser optics.

- Thickness: Thicker wood may require multiple passes or a higher laser power.

- Engraving: Wood engraving settings differ from cutting, so precise control is needed for detailed designs.

- Ventilation: Wood can produce smoke and fumes, so ventilation is essential.

In addition to these material-specific considerations, it's important to consider factors like machine calibration, focus, and kerf (the width of the cut) when working with any material.

Do you make custom stamps?

Certainly, we offer the creation of custom stamps. We are here to assist you in designing a stamp from the ground up, or we can collaborate with you using a file you provide.

Do you make custom stencils?

Custom stencils are among our most frequently requested projects. To help you prepare for a stencil project, here are some important details. If you already have your design prepared, please send it to us, and we'll promptly provide you with a quote.

Do you work with materials not listed on your website?

We are open to working with a wide range of materials, as long as they adhere to the safety guidelines for use with a CO2 laser. It's important that the materials are free from chlorine or any harmful chemicals that could potentially impact the safety of our team and the machine.

Can I provide my own materials?

Absolutely, you are more than welcome to supply your own material. To ensure a smooth process, please reach out to our team to make the necessary arrangements for material drop-off.

What type of materials do you not laser cut?

The materials that should typically not be laser cut due to potential hazards include:

1. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): PVC can release toxic chlorine gas when cut with a laser, posing serious health risks.

2. Vinyl: Similar to PVC, vinyl can release harmful fumes and should be avoided.
3. Polycarbonate: This material can create hazardous fumes when subjected to laser cutting.

4. Polystyrene (Styrofoam): Cutting styrofoam with a laser can release noxious gasses and damage the machine.

5. Fiberglass: The resin in fiberglass can generate harmful fumes when laser cut.
6. Teflon: Teflon can release toxic fumes when exposed to a laser, presenting health risks.

7. Materials with Unknown Composition: Materials without a clear composition or those that produce unknown fumes should be avoided due to safety concerns.

Can you send photos of my parts in production?

Unfortunately, we are unable to provide in-progress photos as it could disrupt our production schedule. However, if you have any concerns beforehand, please feel free to communicate them to our team, and we'll do our best to address them and alleviate any worries.

What is your cut tolerance?

The cutting tolerance for each material is contingent upon the cutting method employed for that particular material and its specific thickness. Laser cut acrylic and wood (+/- .006-.009′′ cutting tolerance)

Will my acrylic parts have protective film?

When cutting acrylic, we typically keep the manufacturer's protective film or paper cover in place. However, you will need to remove these coverings once the parts are in your possession. If you prefer to have the paper removed before cutting, please inform us, and we will take care of that for you.

What material do you offer?

Given the substantial size of our materials, we don't maintain a significant in-house stock. Nevertheless, we have established excellent partnerships with local suppliers, enabling us to promptly source materials when needed, often with next-day availability.

Can my orders be tax exempt?

We are pleased to offer sales tax exemptions for customers who possess valid tax exemption certificates. To ensure a smooth process and avoid the need for refunds, kindly provide this information to us before making payment on your invoice.

How do I change or cancel my order?

Once payment is successfully made, we regret to inform you that changes or cancellations will no longer be feasible. This is because we consider payment confirmation as a definitive commitment to proceed with the project. We strongly advise double-checking your part quantities, chosen materials, file names, and overall part dimensions prior to placing your order to prevent any potential issues.

I have an item that I want engraved, but I don't know what it's made of. Can you do it?

We are open to exploration and innovation! If you have uncertainties regarding your choice of material, consider arranging an in-person meeting with one of our team members. They can evaluate the feasibility of our assistance with the specific material you have in mind and provide guidance accordingly.