FAQs
The following are those initial questions you may have about laser cutting, different effects, materials you can use, burning, we cover quite a lot here but please do use the contact link if we can help further.
Can you personalise using laser cutting?
Yes! Using a CSV file, we can add variable data fields to your design so every copy could have a different guest or recipient’s name laser cut out of it. A unique ticket number, cloakroom number or even a combination of both. You can add multiple fields to any design. You simply have to choose a stencil cut font.
What about engraving, can you do this?
Yes! Laser power can be adjusted so it only partly cuts through a material. This is sometimes called raster engraving and it produces a great effect, particularly on wood and plastics. This may add a really interesting look to your design. It is always worth asking us to try if you have something you want to experiment with. When some papers they are laser engraved, they can reveal a really interesting core colour, producing an amazing effect.
What is the largest sheet size you can cut?
We can laser cut a sheet of paper over 1m long in one pass but like anything it is dependent on design. If you send us a visual image, we can tell straight away if we can cut it (usually we can, but we may have to carry out a little creative thinking to make it work). More importantly, we can work out the most cost effective way to cut it.
Are some papers better for cutting than others?
Where possible, we would always recommend using a good quality uncoated material although it is obviously impossible to specify that on every project. We routinely test papers before running to check the finish. We can laser cut coated, varnished, laminated and even metallic paper so please ask for help at the planning stage.
What if I can't produce my own artwork?
We have highly skilled designers and art workers that can help with that process, from refining your artwork and making it laser-ready, right through to turning your sketch on a piece of paper into the artwork file that turns your idea into a finished project.
Doesn't laser cutting burn the paper?
Simplistically, lasers cut the paper with fire! The equipment we use, the care we take and the recommendations we can make regarding design and material choice will mean we will always get the very best result possible. With our modern equipment, it is amazing how little burning shows.
How much does laser cutting cost?
Once, laser cutting was considered an expensive print finish. Today, with the improvements in technology, the projects can be completed faster than they once could so the costs are far less prohibitive. We base our laser cutting costs on the complexity of your design so there is no easy answer to that question but if you send the artwork and idea of quantity, we’ll run a test and let you know.