Can I Bring My Own Item to Be Engraved?
Sometimes, yes. It depends on the material, the size, and what you're hoping for. Here's how to find out before you send anything.
We get this question a lot. Someone has a cutting board they love, a leather journal from a trip, or a tumbler they already own, and they want it engraved. The short answer is sometimes. Here's how to figure out whether your item is a good candidate.
Why it depends on the material
A laser reacts differently to every material. Natural wood, slate, and plain leather usually take engraving well. Painted, coated, or heavily finished surfaces can behave in unexpected ways. Some materials can't be done safely at all. The only way to know for sure is to look at the item and find out what it's made of.
What materials are usually fine?
Bare wood, bamboo, slate, natural leather, acrylic, and many coated metals are common ones. If your item is one of those, there's a good chance it can work. If it's something else, send a photo anyway and we'll tell you.
What can't be engraved at all?
Some plastics, especially vinyl and anything containing PVC, can't be laser engraved safely because of what they release when they burn. Some glossy finishes and treated materials also don't take engraving well. If we say no, it's because we'd rather tell you than ruin your item.
What should you send us?
A few clear photos, the dimensions, what you think the material is, and where you want the engraving to go. A photo of any markings on the bottom or inside helps too. With that, we can usually tell you quickly whether it will work.
Is it risky to send something valuable?
It's worth thinking about. An engraving is permanent, and we can't undo a mistake on your item the way we can remake one of ours. For anything sentimental or expensive, ask us about testing the design first, and take your time with the proof. A careful conversation up front is better than a regret later.
What about items that aren't flat?
Curved items like tumblers, bottles, and rounded handles can work, but size and shape matter. Send a photo and the dimensions and we'll let you know.
If you've got something in mind, send us a photo and a description and we'll give you an honest answer.