What is Laser etching, and how does it work?
For a very good primer on laser engraving and etching why not visit the Wikipedia site that explains many aspects of the technology and art? Enjoy!
How durable is laser etching?
Laser etching is extremely durable. No matter the material, the etching process actually modifies the surface in such a way the the change is permanent. You can be assured that your laser etched treasure will last for a long long time.
What is the cost?
Each Product category has a page that explains the costs involved. The basic cost is based on size, format and on material used. The cost can vary depending on the source of the image being used. If it is necessary to purchase rights to an image, those costs will normally be passed on directly to the client. Generally, you should expect that a mural will cost $145 to $165 per square foot. Larger murals enjoy a price break. Plaques and accents range in price from $8.95 to $139. Generally, image costs do not impact plaques and accents. A 5" by 7" image on most materials costs $39. This can be created from either a traditional print that we digitize, or can be created from a digitized print sent to us on CD.
Can I use my own materials?
Yes, you can. We would request that we be provide a test piece in order to confirm our system parameters to give an excellent result. Otherwise we will supply the material for etching from our own extensive resources.
How long does it take?
It depends on the project. An plaque, even with an additional personalized image, can be completed within a day of receipt of the confirmed order. A multiple-component mural normally takes longer. Projects requiring more intensity obviously will take longer. Normally allow two weeks for delivery after the confirmed order is received.
Can tempered glass be etched?
Yes. Our laser system is specifically designed to be able to create excellent glass etchings. This includes tempered glass.
What pictures can I use?
Any picture (image) can be used as long as you have the right to use it. This is automatic is you took the picture, and not automatic if you did not take the picture. Any photograph that you did not take requires either written permission to use it, or the rights to use it based on purchase arrangements (for example, from an online royalty-free stock photography enterprise). Many local studios will give permission to use family photographs or wedding photographs for laser etching projects if asked. The permission should be in writing.
Picture quality should be high, without distracting background (although we can modify many images to "erase" some distractions). the better the original image the less time it take s to prepare it for an excellent etching.
Can I use art work?
Yes. Art work is particularly interesting to laser etch. Remember however, that tones, values and textures will be represented in black and white (and intermediate grays , of course). Art (and photography that relies heavily of color alone to communicate it's message will not have the same effect in black and white. Interesting though, that some works of art have greater impact in black and white than they do in color. There is a rising, reviving interest in black and white.
If your project requires a larger format artistic work to be laser etched, preliminary digitizing by a professional lab that provides such services is advisable.
What about shipping costs?
We usually ship UPS Ground within the continental United States. During the holiday season (and we may extend it) UPS Ground is free to our valued customers. If special handling (like faster service) is required, then we will only charge the difference between that cost and the cost of UPS Ground.
Are you looking for partners for marketing?
We are willing to consider partnering arrangements, particularly in the realm of smaller items such as plaques, memorials, and accents on various materials. Laser etched inspirational plaques with Bible references are of special interest to many religious bookstores.
For specific inquiries, please use the email link below,
or go to the Feedback Page.