Careful planning and correct file formatting are the first important steps to ensure precision, quality products and efficiency.

• 🔧 Step 1: Choose the Right Software.

Use vector-based design software for vector cutting and optionally raster for engraving.

Some common graphic design software

• Adobe Illustrator: A professional, widely used vector design program.
• AutoCAD: A professional CAD program that can generate compatible drawing formats.
• CorelDRAW: Another popular option, often used for creating vector-based designs.
• Inkscape: A free and open-source alternative to Illustrator with similar capabilities.
• Fusion 360: Useful for creating 2D vector files from 3D models that can be used for laser cutting.
• 📁 Step 2: Set Up Your Document.
• Canvas Size: Prepare your files to fit in either 39″ x 24″ for cut and engraving or 96″ x 48″ for cutting
• Unit of measurement: You can use either metric or imperial.
• Color Mode: Use RGB for color coding. Typically red is for vector cut and blue is for raster engrave
• Layers(Optional): Organize cuts and engraves into separate layers
• 🎨 Step 3: Design Using Vector Cut Paths and Raster Engraving
• Cut lines must be vector (not raster or filled shapes)
• Engraving areas should be filled with RGB colors
• Use clean, closed paths, avoid open shapes for cutting
• Minimize overlapping lines (they may be cut or engraved multiple times).
• 🟥 Step 4: Color Code for Laser Actions
• Most laser software reads RGB colors to determine operations.
• Operation Color (RGB) Line Thickness should be 0.001″ or 0.025 mm in Adobe Illustrator, use hairline line width in CorelDraw and zero line width in AutoCAD. We do not require any color codes. You can choose any basic RGB colors you wish.
• 🧪 Step 5: Optimize and Clean Your File
• Use vector paths for cuts: Laser cutters read vector lines.
• Ensure your cut lines are continuous, clean paths without gaps or overlaps.
• Convert text to paths: Convert all text to outlines or paths to prevent font compatibility problems.
• Remove hidden or duplicate paths

Use proper kerf compensation if needed (for press-fit parts)

• Separate layers: If your design has multiple operations (e.g., cutting and engraving), use different layers for each, often identified by color.
• 💾 Step 6: Save and Export Your File
• Typical file formats we accept are:
• Adobe Illustrator (.AI or .EPS or PDF, Native)
• CorelDRAW (.CDR files native or .EPS)
• Scalable Vector Graphic (.SVG)
• SolidWorks, Fusion 360 or AutoCAD (
• 📌 Tips:
• If high tolerance is required, you can add 0.008″ back to the cut lines to compensate for the beam width, i.e., if you cut a circle, offset 0.004″ larger; or if you cut a donut, offset the inner cut 0.004″ smaller.
• No stray objects outside of the canvas
• All lines are correct thickness (hairline for cut)
• No filled shapes for cuts
• No overlapping lines
• All fonts converted to outlines
• Saved in the requested format