Putting Your Company Logo on Engraved Gifts: What Works and What Doesn't
A logo that looks great on a screen doesn't always look great on wood. Here's what to know before you order.
A company logo on a gift can look sharp and professional, or it can look muddy and cheap. The difference is usually decided before the piece ever touches the laser. Here's what to know before you order.
Engraving is one color
An engraving doesn't add color. It burns or removes material, which creates a darker or lighter mark depending on what you're engraving. A multi-color logo becomes a single-tone design on wood or leather. That's not a bad thing, but it means we need to look at how your logo will translate.
What file format should I send for my logo?
A vector file is the best. That's usually an SVG, AI, EPS, or PDF file. A vector stays sharp at any size, so we can scale it to fit a coaster or a sign without losing quality. A high-resolution PNG can work, but a small or blurry one will not. If you don't have a vector file, send what you have and we'll tell you what we can do.
Why do some logos need simplifying?
Very thin lines, tiny text, and soft gradients don't engrave cleanly. Fine details can blur together, and gradients turn into a muddy block. We might suggest simplifying the logo for engraving, like removing the tagline or turning a gradient into a solid shape. We'll show you a proof first.
How small can a logo go?
It depends on the design. A bold, simple mark can go small. A logo with tiny text needs more room. If your logo won't fit the piece you picked, we'll tell you before we start and suggest a bigger size or a different piece.
Can you match my brand colors?
An engraving doesn't match brand colors on its own. If color is important, there are other options, like colored acrylic or filling in the engraving, but those are separate processes. Ask us about them if color matters.
How does a logo look on different materials?
On wood, it looks warm and brown. On leather, it can look darker and richer. On coated metal, it can look crisp and high contrast. The material changes the feel of the logo, so pick the one that fits your brand.
Do I get to see it before it's made?
Always. We send a proof, and nothing gets engraved until you approve it.
Send us your logo and tell us what you're thinking, and we'll let you know what to expect.