Not every material belongs under a laser. Here's the working list we use in the Guildford studio, sorted by how our diode laser handles them.
Cuts cleanly
- Plywood and MDF (3–6 mm): Beautiful edges, minimal charring at the right feed rate. Our default choice for signage, packaging, and product prototypes.
- Solid hardwoods (walnut, oak, cherry) up to 6 mm: Slower feed, but the burnt-edge aesthetic is often exactly what customers want on brand signage.
- Cast acrylic 3–6 mm: Cast (not extruded) acrylic gives glass-clear edges. Extruded acrylic melts and crazes — avoid it.
- Card, cork, felt, thin leather: Great for packaging inserts, mock-ups, and brand collateral.
Engraves only (does not cut)
- Anodised aluminium, coated stainless, powder-coated steel: The laser removes the coating without touching the substrate. Perfect for tool tags, control panels, and industrial badges.
- Glass and ceramic: Frost-effect engraving only. We use a light coat of transfer fluid to improve edge contrast.
- Slate, stone, tile: Excellent contrast for signage and awards.
Will not process
- PVC / vinyl: Releases chlorine gas that corrodes both the machine and your lungs. Non-negotiable no.
- ABS, polycarbonate: Toxic fumes and poor edge quality. Use FDM printing instead.
- Reflective bare metals: A diode laser bounces off polished aluminium or copper. For raw metal, we route the job to a partner with a fibre laser.
When to combine with 3D printing
A lot of our best signage jobs are hybrid: laser-cut walnut face with a 3D-printed backing plate for wall mounting, or an acrylic base for a printed award trophy. If you're not sure what fits, send us the artwork and we'll suggest the cleanest build.
