Are you looking to add a personal touch to your belongings or create custom gifts in Calgary, Alberta? Laser engraving is a fantastic option for precise, detailed designs on a wide range of materials. At Custom Crafted Calgary, we offer high-quality laser engraving services for both personal and business needs. If you’re new to laser engraving or are curious about the costs, materials, and limitations, we’ve got all the answers you need to make informed decisions.
How Much Does Laser Engraving Cost?
The cost of laser engraving varies based on a few different factors:
- Material Type: Different materials have different engraving requirements. For example, engraving on wood or acrylic may be more affordable than on metals or glass.
- Size of the Design: Larger designs typically take longer to complete, which can increase the price.
- Design Complexity: Intricate designs with fine details may take more time and precision, affecting the cost.
- Quantity: If you’re engraving in bulk, you may receive a discount for the larger order.
On average, laser engraving prices can range from $15 to $100 per item. For example, engraving a custom wooden keychain may cost around $20, while engraving a more complex design on a metal plaque could be closer to $50 or more. To get an accurate quote, it’s best to reach out to Custom Crafted Calgary with your specific project details.
What Materials Can Be Engraved Using Laser?
Laser engraving is an incredibly versatile process, capable of engraving a wide variety of materials. At Custom Crafted Calgary, we work with many different types, including:
- Wood: Engraving on wood creates a beautiful, rustic look, perfect for custom gifts, signage, and more.
- Acrylic: A popular material for awards, signs, and home décor, acrylic engravings can be clear or frosted, giving a sleek, modern touch.
- Leather: Engraving on leather is great for personalized accessories like wallets, belts, or journals.
- Glass: Whether it’s wine glasses or custom trophies, laser engraving on glass offers a detailed and permanent design.
- Metal: Metals like stainless steel, and aluminum, can be engraved with precision, ideal for corporate branding, awards, and personalized gifts.
- Stone: Engraving on stone is perfect for memorials, custom artwork, and other decorative items.
- Rubber: Rubber stamps are also a popular product created using laser engraving.
If you have a unique material in mind, feel free to reach out to us to see if it’s compatible with our laser engraving services.
What Should You NOT Laser Engrave?
While laser engraving is versatile, there are a few materials that should be avoided or used with caution:
- PVC or Vinyl: Laser engraving PVC can release harmful fumes, which are highly toxic and can cause damage the electronics of the machine.
- Some Plastics: Certain plastics may not engrave well or can release toxic fumes when heated.
- Highly Flammable Materials: Avoid engraving materials like paper or fabrics that could catch fire easily.
- Bottles Containing Carbonated Liquids: Engraving on glass creates micro-fractures in the glass. Internal pressure from carbonated liquids such as champagne, soda, and sparking water can cause the bottle to explode during, or after the engraving process.
At Custom Crafted Calgary, we take safety very seriously and will guide you in selecting the right materials for your project. If you’re ever unsure, we can help you pick a material that ensures a high-quality, safe engraving.
Why Is Laser Engraving So Expensive?
You might wonder why laser engraving can seem expensive compared to other forms of personalization. Here are a few reasons:
- Precision & Detail: Laser engraving is highly detailed and allows for intricate designs that other methods simply can’t match. The machine uses a laser beam to precisely etch your design, which requires advanced technology.
- Quality Materials: At Custom Crafted Calgary, we work with top-quality materials that are designed to last, ensuring your engraving looks stunning for years.
- Time & Labor: Laser engraving is a time-intensive process, particularly for more intricate or larger designs. Even though the machine does most of the work, there’s still time required for setup, testing, and adjustments.
- Equipment & Maintenance: The machines used for laser engraving are expensive and require regular maintenance and calibration to maintain their quality and accuracy.
While the upfront cost of laser engraving may seem higher than other personalization methods, it provides long-term value through the precision, durability, and timeless appeal of the final product.
Get Started with Custom Crafted Calgary
If you’re ready to bring your ideas to life with laser engraving, Custom Crafted Calgary is here to help! Whether you’re creating a unique gift, customizing your business logo, or designing a personal keepsake, we’re committed to delivering high-quality, precise engravings.
Reach out to us today to discuss your next project, and let’s create something extraordinary together!
Custom Crafted Calgary
Custom Laser Engraving and Branded Gifts