7 Steps to Prepare Your Laser Cutting Files
Laser cutting is an incredible tool for precision manufacturing, prototyping, and creative design, but preparing your laser cutting files correctly is key to getting the best results. Whether you're working with wood, acrylic, or fabric, a properly formatted file ensures clean cuts, smooth engraving, and a hassle-free experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to get your laser cutting files ready.
We're Fabberz, your go-to laser-cutting service in NYC and beyond. From our experience helping multiple clients, we've learned the easiest steps to prep your laser cutting files and wanted to share them.
7 Steps to Prep Your Laser Cutting Files
1. Use the Right File Format
Most laser cutting machines work with vector-based files, as vectors define precise paths for the laser to follow. The most common file formats for laser cutting files include:
.AI (Adobe Illustrator) – Ideal for complex designs and industry-standard for vector graphics.
.3DM (Rhinoceros 3D) – Frequently used in industrial and architectural design, ideal for complex 2D and 3D projects.
.SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) – A versatile format compatible with many design programs.
.DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) – Common in CAD programs like AutoCAD.
If you’re unsure about your laser cutting files format, send us an email at labnyc@fabberz.com to confirm compatibility.
2. Set Up Your Design with Correct Line Types
To ensure your design is cut or engraved as intended, you need to differentiate between:
Cut lines – Should be set to a stroke of 0.001 inches in RGB red (255, 0, 0) to indicate vector cutting.
Scoring lines (engraved lines that don’t cut all the way through) – Should be set to a stroke of 0.001 inches in RGB blue (0, 0, 255) to denote vector etching.
Raster engraving (field engraving) – Used for surface engraving of images or text. These areas should be filled with black or grayscale to define engraving depth.
3. Convert Text to Outlines
If your design includes text, always convert it to outlines (also called curves or paths) before sending it for laser cutting. This prevents font compatibility issues, ensuring your typography appears exactly as intended.
In Adobe Illustrator, select your text and go to Type → Create Outlines (Shift + Cmd/Ctrl + O).
4. Avoid Overlapping or Duplicate Lines
One common mistake in laser cutting files is overlapping lines, which can cause excessive burning or unnecessary cutting passes. Before finalizing your file:
Use the "Join" tool in Illustrator to merge overlapping paths.
In Rhino 3D type SelDup and then delete duplicate paths.
Utilize the "Overkill" command in AutoCAD to delete duplicate lines.
Run a "Pathfinder → Merge" operation to clean up your design.
5. Ensure Correct File Size and Border
The size of a laser bed can vary greatly. Our current laser bed size is 18” x 32”, meaning that unless it’s a special case, we can cut material and projects up to 18” x 32”. Prepare your artboard or workspace accordingly.
Don’t place your artwork right along the edge of the artboard or workspace. We require a 0.25” border around the artwork as a general bleed area, much like printing.
6. Arrange Your Design for Efficient Cutting
To minimize material waste and reduce cutting time:
Nest parts closely to optimize material usage. The distance can vary depending on the material thickness, but a safe general distance is 0.125” between all objects.
Align cuts in the same direction to minimize unnecessary laser head movement.
Group similar cuts together to ensure a smooth workflow.
7. Save Your File Correctly and Double-Check Everything
Before submitting your laser cutting files:
Remove any hidden layers, clipping masks, or unnecessary elements.
Save in the correct format (.AI, .SVG, .DXF, or .3DM).
Ensure the document size matches your material dimensions.
Make sure the file is set to inches and RGB.
Final Thoughts
Properly preparing your laser cutting files saves time, reduces errors, ensures the best results, and saves you money. By following these laser cutting files preparation tips, you'll achieve cleaner cuts, precise engravings, and a more efficient workflow.
About Fabberz
Looking for expert laser cutting file preparation and cutting services? Fabberz specializes in high-quality custom cutting and engraving. Our expertise ensures that your laser cutting files are optimized for the best possible results. Contact us today to bring your project to life!
Visit us at Fabberz.com to learn more about our services and how we can help with your next laser cutting project!
Laser Cutting Files FAQs
Q: What files are best for laser cutting?
A: .AI, .SVG, .DXF, or .3DM
Q: Are SVG files used for laser cutting?
A: SVG is a great alternative to .AI files
Q: What format is needed for laser cutting?
A: Use our file prep page on our website to help create your own laser cutting file or use our file prep service if you don’t have the ability.
Q: Can an STL file be used for laser cutting?
A: Yes we are able to convert STL files to be used for laser cutting
Q: What software do you need for laser cutting?
A: In order to create laser cutting files you will need software like Adobe Illustrator, Rhinoceros 3D, AutoCad, or other specialized drawing software.
