The quick answer
Best: SVG, AI, or EPS (vector files)
Good: PDF or high-res PNG (300 DPI or higher)
Workable: JPEG or low-res PNG (we may need to vectorize it)
Fine: No file at all — just describe what you want
Why vector files are best
A vector file (SVG, AI, EPS) is built from mathematical paths — lines and curves — rather than pixels. This means it can be scaled to any size without losing quality. When we feed your design into the laser, we need crisp, clean lines. A vector file gives us that at any size.
If your designer or branding team gave you a logo, ask them for the SVG or AI version. Most professionally designed logos exist in vector format — it's just a matter of asking for the right file.
What about PNG and JPEG?
High-res PNGs (300 DPI or higher) work well for many projects, especially photos and detailed artwork. If you're ordering photo engraving — a portrait, a pet photo, a landscape — a high-res JPG or PNG is exactly what we need.
Low-resolution images (screenshots, phone photos of a logo, small web images) can still work but may require us to trace and rebuild the design as a vector. We do this regularly — it's just an additional step that we'll mention in your proof.
File formats at a glance
| Format | Best for | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| SVG | Logos, text, illustrations | Best overall for clean engraving |
| AI / EPS | Professional brand files | Ask your designer |
| Layouts with vector elements | Works well if designed in Illustrator/Canva | |
| PNG (300+ DPI) | Photos, detailed art | Must be high resolution |
| JPG | Photos only | Avoid for logos or text |
| Screenshot / phone photo | Reference only | We'll need to rebuild as vector |
What if you don't have any file?
Completely fine. Tell us what you want — describe it, sketch it on paper and send a photo, or reference another design you like — and we'll create it. Design is included in our service for most orders. Just explain what you have in mind and we'll handle the rest.
Many of our customers come to us with nothing more than "I want my family name and the year we moved in engraved on a cutting board." That's enough to get started.
Colors don't matter for most engraving
Laser engraving removes material — it doesn't apply color. So the color in your logo file doesn't directly affect the engraved result. What matters is the shape and contrast of the design, not the color values. If you have a multicolor logo, we'll work with you to create a version that translates well to a single-color engraving.
Text: fonts and sizing
If you're engraving text — a name, a message, a date — you can just type it out in your request. Tell us the font style you prefer (serif, sans-serif, script, block) and we'll pick something appropriate or send a few options in your proof. You don't need to send a font file.
Minimum text size we can engrave clearly: approximately 6pt for most materials. Very small text on rough surfaces may need to be slightly larger.
Ready to place an order?
Send us what you have — file, sketch, or just a description. We'll take it from there and send a proof before engraving.
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