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What is Laser Engraving?

Last Updated: 23 July 2025

Laser engraving is a beautiful branding technique, created by etching a surface. In today’s market, making a lasting impression is more important than ever for businesses to get a competitive advantage. Engraving is one of the most popular branding techniques, has been an excellent process for creating lasting and remarkably detailed prints. But what exactly is it, and why has it become a favoured choice for promotional products and corporate gifts? Let’s discuss how this process shapes branding efforts that bring success to marketing campaigns and events.

Engraved Bottle

What is the Laser Engraving Process?

The process for branding, begins by using a laser beam to etch designs onto a surface. Unlike other branding methods, it doesn’t use mechanical tools to cut or carve into materials. Instead, it uses a computer controlled laser that burns onto the material to create a permanent etch. With its high-precision beam, it can make fine details, text, and logos. It’s impossible to achieve this level of accuracy by hand. Laser ablation, the primary process behind it, includes vaporisation that creates the final engraved image or text.

Advantages:

Laser engraving stands out because of its precision compared to other marking methods. Because the beam is so focused—sometimes as thin as 0.001 inches—it can nail tiny details, text, or logos on custom projects with intricate designs. Additionally, its durable printing is another significant benefit. While other printed items can fade or deteriorate over time, laser engraving creates a permanent etch.

Third, if you’ve got the proper setup, laser engraving works on tons of materials—metal, plastic, glass, wood, leather, and even stone. For instance, some engrave wooden phone cases or leather journals. You will find the best value with this method if you are looking for precision, durability, and versatility.

Disadvantages:

Despite its strengths, laser engraving has some drawbacks. One downside is the upfront cost. A commercial laser engraving machine can range from $8,000 to over $20,000. (in Cubic Promote, we have several machines to cater for our clients needs)

Additionally, while it works well on many surfaces, some materials—like certain plastics—don’t engrave cleanly or may release harmful fumes. Companies need to select materials carefully to ensure quality results. Additionally, because the process removes material, it can weaken very thin or delicate items if not done with care.

How Laser Engraving is Applied

Businesses use laser engraving for marketing gear that needs to last. For example, it’s popular for branding corporate gifts, awards, and keepsakes. Retail shops, hotels, and tech companies jump on it too. For example, tech companies might engrave branding on USB drives, while hotels use it for keychains or plaques to enhance guest experiences.

Beyond that, people often use laser engraving on personalised gifts. Engraving on watches, jewellery, or wallets lets businesses offer clients something unique. Personalised products are often used for special occasions like anniversaries, weddings, or graduations, making laser engraving an ideal choice for customising gifts that leave a lasting impression.

Examples of Engraved Items

Many things can customised using this technique. Here are some examples:

• Metal Promotional Bottles
• Metal Promotional Pens
• Custom Torches (with metal surfaces)
• Metal Promotional Keyrings
• Personalised Gifts
• Wooden Products

Why is it a Game Changer?

To us, engraving is a game changer because it offers our clients the opportunity to brand their logo permaently. The branding does not rub off or wash off. In fact the only way to remove the branding is possibly to sand it off using abrasives. We think engraving is a fantastic worthwhile investment to brand gifts elegantly.

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