Materials that work with laser cutting

Laser cutting is a versatile process that works with a wide range of materials, allowing for precision and creativity in every project. At Fabberz, we specialize in cutting materials commonly used by artists, architects, and designers to bring their ideas to life. Below is a list of popular materials that work with laser cutting:

Materials We Can Cut

Laser cutting works best with materials that can be cleanly separated by the laser beam without excessive melting or charring.

  • Acrylic

  • Corian

  • MDF

  • Foam

  • Leather

  • Plastics

  • Wood

  • Cardboard

  • Chipboard

  • Fabric

  • Paper

  • Rubber

Materials We Can Engrave

Laser engraving removes surface material to create detailed patterns or designs without cutting all the way through.

  • Acrylic

  • Corian

  • MDF

  • Foam

  • Leather

  • Plastics

  • Wood

  • Cardboard

  • Chipboard

  • Fabric

  • Paper

  • Rubber

  • Powder Coated or Electroplated Metal

Materials We Can Mark

Laser marking alters the surface appearance (almost like black paint) without cutting or engraving deeply, ideal for durable labels.

  • Aluminum

  • Brass

  • Steel

  • Copper

  • Ceramic

  • Glass

More In-Depth Material Info

Not sure if your material is compatible? Check out our full material compatibility guide of or reach out to us for advice on selecting the best materials that work with laser cutting for your project. We're here to help you achieve flawless results!

Materials That Work with the Laser
(Up to 0.25”)

    • Examples: Birch plywood, hardwood, leather, cork.

    • Applications: Furniture, custom signage, fashion accessories.

    • Notes: Wood, plywood, and leather process perfectly for cutting or engraving.

    • Examples: Slate, marble, granite.

    • Applications: Memorial plaques, decorative pieces, architectural elements.

    • Notes: Best suited for laser marking.

    • Examples: Cardstock, corrugated cardboard, chipboard.

    • Applications: Packaging, prototyping, stationary.

    • Notes: Cuts cleanly with minimal smoke; suitable for very intricate designs cut or engraved.

    • Examples: Acrylic (PMMA), polycarbonate, polypropylene, PETG.

    • Applications: Displays, signage, prototypes, stencils.

    • Notes: Acrylic is commonly used with laser cutting; avoid PVC and certain polycarbonates due to toxic fumes. Can be cut or engraved.

    • Examples: Cotton, polyester, felt, nylon.

    • Applications: Apparel, upholstery, custom patches.

    • Notes: Natural textiles like cotton cut well; synthetic textiles often create a slightly melted finished edge that will not fray. Some textiles can even be engraved.

    • Examples: Stainless steel, brass, copper.

    • Applications: Signage, tools, electronic components.

    • Notes: Laser marking can be used on most unfinished metals. Engraving can be achieved with powder coated and electroplated finishes.

    • Examples: Silicone rubber, neoprene, natural rubber.

    • Applications: Seals, gaskets, flexible components.

    • Notes: Some elastomers may melt or emit harmful fumes; verify material compatibility.

    • Examples: EVA foam, polyethylene foam, polystyrene foam.

    • Applications: Packaging, cushioning, craft projects.

    • Notes: Closed-cell foams cut cleanly, but certain foams can release toxic gases when lasered. Please verify material compatibility.

    • Examples: Borosilicate glass, soda-lime glass, porcelain, quartz.

    • Applications: Glassware engraving, ceramic tile marking, electronics.

    • Notes: Best suited for laser marking.

Materials That Don’t Work with the Laser

    • Found in: Vinyl sheets, piping.

    • Hazard: Emits corrosive chlorine gas, damages laser optics.

    • Found in: Safety goggles, compact discs.

    • Hazard: Produces poor cuts, releases toxic fumes.

    • Found in: Toy parts, electronics casings.

    • Hazard: Emits cyanide gas, results in poor cutting quality.

    • Found in: Circuit boards, boat parts.

    • Hazard: Emits harmful fumes, uneven cutting.

    • Found in: Aerospace components, sporting goods.

    • Hazard: Coating can produce toxic fumes; uncoated material is safer but challenging to process.

    • Found in: Insulation materials.

    • Hazard: Emits harmful fumes, potential fire hazard.

    • Found in: PTFE (Teflon), chlorinated plastics.

    • Hazard: Emits toxic gases that are harmful to humans and equipment.

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