Laser cutting and engraving offers jewellery makers the opportunity to achieve precision and intricate detail that would be difficult to achieve by hand. Whether you’re looking to cut out delicate designs or engrave personalised messages, laser technology can help take your jewellery to the next level. But what are the best techniques for using laser cutters and engravers?

Understanding Laser Cutters and Engravers

Before we explore specific techniques, it’s important to understand the difference between laser cutting and laser engraving:

  • Laser Cutting: Involves using a laser beam to cut through a material completely. This is ideal for creating shapes, patterns or even custom jewellery components.
  • Laser Engraving: Involves etching a design onto the surface of a material. This technique is perfect for adding personalised touches, like names, dates or decorative motifs.

Both techniques are highly versatile and can be used on a range of materials, including metal, acrylic, wood, and leather.

Best Techniques for Using Laser Cutters

1. Optimise Your Design Files

For precise laser cutting, your design files need to be flawless. Ensure all lines are closed and there are no overlapping paths.

  • Tip: Use different colours to indicate cutting, engraving and scoring lines in your design. This makes it easier to set the correct parameters for each part of your project.

2. Select the Right Material

The material you choose will impact the final result of your laser cutting. Different materials react differently to lasers:

  • Metal: Ideal for precision cuts and creating fine details.
  • Acrylic: Provides a clean, polished finish and is great for colourful designs.
  • Wood: Offers a natural, rustic look, but requires careful attention to prevent burning.

Always test your settings on a scrap piece before starting your main project to ensure you get the desired results.

3. Use the Right Laser Settings

The power, speed and frequency settings of your laser cutter will greatly affect your outcome. Adjust these settings based on your material and design to avoid issues like burning, warping or incomplete cuts.

  • Tip: Keep a record of your successful settings for future reference. Many machines also have presets for common materials.

4. Masking for Clean Cuts

Masking your material with tape or a protective film can help prevent scorch marks and residue. Once the cutting is complete, simply remove the masking to reveal a clean, polished finish.

  • Tip: Use a low-tack masking tape that won’t leave adhesive residue on your jewellery components.

Best Techniques for Using Laser Engravers

1. Focus on Detail

Laser engraving allows you to add intricate details to your jewellery, from floral motifs to personalised text. For best results, ensure your design is high-resolution and that your engraving settings are optimised for clarity.

  • Tip: Experiment with different fonts and designs to create unique, personalised jewellery.

2. Choose the Right Depth

Adjusting the depth of your engraving can make a big difference to the look and feel of your jewellery. A shallow engraving gives a subtle, elegant effect, while a deeper engraving can create a more striking, bold design.

  • Tip: For metal jewellery, use a lower power setting to avoid removing too much material.

3. Add Finishing Touches

Once your engraving is complete, consider adding finishing touches to enhance the design. For example, you can:

  • Fill the engraving with enamel or resin for a pop of colour.
  • Polish the surface to give your jewellery a professional finish.
  • Oxidise metal engravings to make the design stand out.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Skipping Test Cuts: Always test your settings before starting your main project.
  • Ignoring Material Thickness: Ensure your laser cutter is set up for the thickness of your material.
  • Overpowering the Laser: Using too much power can cause burning or warping. Adjust your settings carefully.

Laser cutting and engraving offer endless possibilities for jewellery makers, from creating custom components to adding unique, personalised details. By mastering the techniques outlined above, you can unlock the full potential of your laser cutter or engraver and create stunning, professional-quality jewellery.

For jewellery makers looking to achieve professional results, consider using our Magic L3 Laser Engraving and Cutting Machine. Designed specifically for precision and versatility, explore its features and see how it can transform your jewellery making processes.

Save this for later

Author: Sian Brown
Written by

Sian Brown

Sian has been hand making her award winning jewellery in the West Midlands for over 12 years. Sian spent 10 years in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter before relocating to a quiet Worcestershire village.