A well-prepared file is the quickest route to an accurate quote and a good result. This guide covers what we need from a file for laser cutting, and the common problems that cause delays.

In short

  • Send vector artwork: SVG, DXF, PDF or AI.
  • Draw at 1:1 scale, in millimetres.
  • Convert all text to outlines (also called curves or paths).
  • Use closed paths for every shape you want cut out.
  • Remove duplicate, overlapping and stray lines.
  • Separate cutting and engraving using different colours or layers, and tell us which is which.

Why vector files?

A laser cutter follows lines. Vector files describe shapes as lines and curves, which the laser can follow exactly. Raster images such as PNG and JPG are made of pixels and have no lines to follow, so they can't be used directly for cutting. They are suitable for engraving photographs and images, and are useful as a reference if you need help preparing artwork.

Scale and units

Set your document units to millimetres and draw parts at their real size. If a part should be 150 mm wide, it should measure 150 mm in the file. Files drawn at a different scale can be resized, but this adds a step and risks errors, especially when parts need to fit together.

Text and fonts

We may not have the font you used. Convert text to outlines before sending, so it appears exactly as you designed it. For cut lettering, check that letters with enclosed areas, such as O, A and B, are designed so the inner parts are supported or intended to drop out.

Clean, closed paths

Each shape to be cut should be a single closed path. Gaps can leave parts attached to the sheet, and duplicate lines on top of each other cause the laser to cut the same line twice, which can scorch edges and adds machine time. Most design programs have tools to join paths and remove duplicates.

Cutting and engraving in the same file

If your design includes both, put cut lines and engraved areas on separate layers or in different colours, and tell us which is which in your enquiry.

Small details and thin parts

Very small holes, narrow slots and thin bridges can be fragile or may not cut cleanly, depending on the material and its thickness. If your design has fine detail, mention it and we'll advise.

Parts that fit together

For slot-together or interlocking parts, tell us the material thickness you designed for. Sheet thickness varies slightly from the nominal value, so a test piece is often worthwhile before a full batch.

Not sure your file is ready?

Send what you have. On our quote form, choose "I have artwork that needs preparation" or "I need design assistance" and we'll tell you what is needed. Artwork preparation may be quoted separately.