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How to Submit Artwork for the Best Laser Engraving Results

Whether you're ordering a custom tumbler, a wooden keepsake, or a slate plaque from Etch 'n' Shine, your artwork plays a crucial role in the final result. Here’s everything you need to know to get your engraving just right!

✅ What Kind of Image Should I Upload?

  • High-resolution, original file (preferably unedited and uncompressed)
  • Bold lines and strong contrast
  • Clean edges and simple details

Best file types: PNG, JPEG, SVG, or PDF
Recommended resolution: 300 DPI or higher

🎯 Tip: Great designs start with great files!

⚠️ What to Avoid

  • Low-resolution or pixelated images
  • Light pencil sketches with faint lines
  • Very light or low-contrast photos

These types of files often engrave poorly or may not be visible at all—especially on natural surfaces like wood or slate.

🧱 Material Matters

Each material reacts differently to laser engraving. Here’s how:

Material Engraving Appearance
Wood Darker burnt finish
Slate Light grey or off-white engraving
Metal (coated) Reveals silver or stainless base
Acrylic Frosted or precision-clear look

🔍 Why Doesn't My Engraving "Pop"?

Sometimes the engraving might not look bold, especially if the product and the design are too similar in tone or the underligning of the product is similar to the product surface colour. This isn’t an error—it’s the natural interaction between the laser and the material.

🧠 Tip: For best results, use designs with bold contrast and consider how they’ll appear on your chosen material.

✂️ Do You Edit My Image?

We perform light adjustments only, such as removing minor blemishes, removing backgrounds, inverting colours or improving clarity. We do not:

  • Redraw logos or images
  • Make heavy edits or graphic changes
  • Alter the essence of your submitted design

This ensures your final piece retains its authenticity, especially for personal sketches or handwriting.

🧾 Final Responsibility

We do our best to review every file, but it's the customer’s responsibility to provide artwork that follows our guidelines.

If you're unsure, contact us before placing your order—we’re happy to help!

🖼️ Need a Quick Reminder?

How to Submit Artwork for Engraving by Etch 'n' Shine

📚 Want to Learn More?

Thanks for choosing Etch 'n' Shine — where your ideas come to life through laser precision and personal craftsmanship.