When printing on canvas, the canvas' texture minimizes pixelations, which also allows us to print a larger image. However, we will not ship an order until we are sure the print quality is acceptable. If we have any concern, we will contact you for a better quality digital file or photo replacement. To learn more, read our article about working with low resolution images.

INSTRUCTIONS:
- Download the Firezilla CLIENT from http://filezilla-project.org/ and install it.
- Once you have installed Firezilla, launch it.
- On the top of the application there will be 3 blank spaces where you will enter the host, password and user name provided.
- Click on the Quickconnect button.
- Once it is connected, you can drag your files to the center/right area* (in green) and drop them to the center/left area (red). *Note that the center/right area shows the files in your computer and you will have to find your files first.
- Wait until your file uploads to our server successfully.

To learn more, see our article all about Sending Large Files.

# Water Resistant for increased durability
# Highest resolution canvas for outstanding reproduction
# Acid free
# 65% Polyester 35% Cotton blend Poly-Cotton
# CIE Whiteness:145, Opacity 98%
# Weight 350 gsm, Thickness 21 mil
# Unique texture for true artistic look
# Instant-drying, micro-porous coating
# Stretchable for framing
# Applications: Fine Art Photography, Giclee Reproduction, Portrait Photography, Wedding Photography

Custom-made stretcher bar frames

2. By mail: if you have printed material, like an old black & white photo or a poster, mail it to us and we will scan it, print your canvas, and return the original to you along with your print. Please contact us by email for our mailing address.

Please note that if you have a digital artwork, the printing price will be added to the plaque mounting cost.

Liners serve much the same visual purpose as a mat, separating the work from its frame. Order online: Linen Liners

When printing on canvas, the canvas' texture minimizes pixelations, which also allows us to print a larger image. However, we will not ship an order until we are sure the print quality is acceptable. If we have any concern, we will contact you for a better quality digital file or photo replacement.

Orders over $99 will be shipped free, otherwise our flat rate shipping fee is $19.

There are many different methods of scanning. The appropriate scanning solution will be chosen based on the original artwork's size, shape and color, and the desired resolution. Different types of scanners available include:

Small Flatbed scanners:
Scans original artworks or photographs. Some models come with a transparency adapter to scan slides or negatives up to 5" x 4".

Professional Large Format Flatbed scanners:
Same as a small flatbed scanner, but can scan larger sizes and are capable of much higher scanning resolutions.

Film Scanners:
For scanning film or transparencies only.

Drum Scanners:
Capable of extremely high quality results. Highly skilled operation. Not suitable for original artwork, only film.

Digital Cameras:
The image is captured into a digital file with no intermediate processing stage in-between. The image can be downloaded straight into the computer.

Digital Camera Backs:
Same as digital cameras, but produces a professional quality digital capture. A digital back that fits onto large format cameras, scanning directly into a computer interface. Order service online: Artwork Scanning To learn more about digitally reproducing artwork, see our article Flatbed Scanning vs Photography.

and on YouTube: Color Theory, Color and Gamut

The checkout process allows you to put in only one coupon code per order. Please select Check as payment method, and provide the other coupon codes in the Order Note section so we can apply them manually. We will send you an updated invoice by email for further review. If the coupon code does not cover shipping charges, multiple shipping charges will be applied if you use multiple coupon codes, due to the larger package size and weight.

(a) the “amount paid” and
(b) the promotional value”.

The “promotional value” is the additional value beyond the amount paid. Together, the amount paid and the promotional value equals the “full offer value” of the voucher. For example, if you pay $20 for a voucher that gets you $50 of goods or services from a Merchant, the full offer value is $50 and the amount paid is $20, and the promotional value is $30 (this amount expires on the date stated on the voucher.). The amount paid (in this case, $20) will never expire. If you would like to use the “amount paid” value of an expired coupon code, simply enter the coupon code at checkout and you will see the “amount paid” value listed as the “pre-paid amount” in the next step of the checkout.

# Water Resistant for increased durability
# Highest resolution canvas for outstanding reproduction
# Acid free
# 65% Polyester 35% Cotton blend Poly-Cotton
# CIE Whiteness:145, Opacity 98%
# Weight 350 gsm, Thickness 21 mil
# Unique texture for true artistic look
# Instant-drying, micro-porous coating
# Stretchable for framing
# Applications: Fine Art Photography, Giclee Reproduction, Portrait Photography, Wedding Photography

Gatorboard is available in the following thicknesses: 3/16 inch, 1/2 inch , 3/4 inch ,1 inch,1-1/2inch, and 2 inch. Order online: 1/2 inch Gatorboard 3/16 inch Gatorboard

Dry mounting is a method of setting the image on a hard backing through the use of a heat-sensitive adhesive material.

Wall Stickers can easily be used also for cutting out decals, and personalizing photos or signs quickly and simply. They also work great for decorating offices, dorm rooms, refrigerators, playrooms, nurseries, kids play areas, reception areas and waiting rooms.

You may also create new images by cropping the interesting subjects of a given image and saving them as new files. For example, if you have a family photo with five faces, you can crop and create new images for each face, or if you have a scenery image with many flowers in it, you may crop and save various close up flowers or sections; this will increase the number of tile images.

Because of its durability, it is mainly used as structural or engineering adhesive for boats, automobiles, air crafts, flooring, dentistry, etc. It is also used as strong adhesive, coating and laminate. Learn more from our Resin Coating article.

Order online: Epoxy Resin

It also is prone to trapping air bubbles or dust. These bubbles usually appear after it has dried and settled. This is very common with resin coating because of its viscous nature. We cannot always guarantee a flawless finish but we always try our best to reduce the amount of interference from environmental elements.

The ready-to-assemble stretcher bars are easy to assemble via a tongue and groove joints. They are joined together when connected and you do not need special tools to make the frame. These stretcher bars only come in two depths and are limited in length. If you are thinking of ordering this type of stretcher bar, please make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment to assemble the frame.  Order online: Pre-cut stretcher bars, unassembled. Custom-made stretcher bar frames.

Our picture frame calculator will calculate the size of the entire piece with the frame, mat and/or liner. First, measure your artwork and choose a frame. Enter in the dimensions of the artwork into the boxes. If you add a liner, you don’t need to worry about recalculating the sizes - it is all done for you.

After you have finished creating your custom picture frame, you will see a measurement next to the “artwork width” drop down list. This is the measurement of the entire piece when put inside the frame (from the outside edges of the frame).

The glass can be cleaned with glass cleaner or water.

EX-74 resists yellowing from UV exposure, but it is not weather-resistant and is not recommended for unprotected exterior use. Order online: EX-74 Resin

This time period is required to allow the artist to create as precise a painting as possible. We can provide a photographic proof of the painting when it is near completion so that if necessary, changes can be made before we stretch and mount it.

For classic paintings (by Van Gogh, Monet, etc.), there are no copyright laws and they are considered public domain as long as the reproducers do not claim that their work is the original. Paintings that fall into this category can be reproduced by us.

Order online: Custom Canvas Stretching services Pre-cut stretcher bars, unassembled. Custom-made stretcher bars

• 16x20"
• 20x24"
• 24x30"
• 24x36"
• 32x40"

• 32x40"
• 36x48"
• 40x60"

• Acrylic
• Oil
• Watercolor
• Gouache
• Tempera
• Glass
• Craft

For a more indepth look at the different kinds of paint, see our article on Types of Paint

In the past, however, oil paint was the most common media, used by famous painters like van Gogh and Monet. Before that, prior to the 16th century, tempera paints were used by most artists.

Order online: ClearShield canvas coating. Acrylic gel medium will be available for purchase soon.

A gel coating gives dimension and texture to your print, but maintains the flexibility of the canvas. Depending on how it is applied, gel embellishment can mimic the original brush strokes from a painting, or highlight significant areas with added depth. Like resin, gel medium dries to a gloss finish (though matte finishes do exist).

Visit our Canvas Print Coatings page for a comprehensive comparison.

Order online: Epoxy Resin, bulk. Acrylic gel medium will be available for purchase soon.

Your image will have enhanced color and a three dimensional appearance due to the plexiglass being affixed directly to the print. The plexi face mount is hung with an "invisible" hanger that gives the appearance your print is floating off the wall.

For more information, read our in-depth article on Plexi Face Mounting.

You can choose between metallic and glossy paper for your print.

• By attaching the plexiglass directly to the print, a sense of depth is achieved, resulting in an almost 3D effect. Reflection may be diminished compared to a regular framed image.

• Sometimes the glass over prints can dull the image. With a face mount, the combination of the glossy or metallic paper and the high shine plexiglass results in vivid, rich color every time.

• Your face mount is created using the same top of the line inks, papers, and plexiglass used in custom framing. This means your image is equal to a framed print in longevity and quality.

• A plexi face mount is a bit less expensive than a framed print of the same size. The cost of the frame moulding, custom construction, and matting is avoided.

• If your face mount happens to topple off the wall, there is a good chance it will remain undamaged. There is no frame to crack or break, and the plexiglass is unlikely to chip due to the reinforced backing.

• Unlike the foam core backing on a framed print, the aluminium Di Bond protects your print from the back just as much as from the front.

• Once your image is mounted onto the plexiglass, there is no chance of moisture, dust, or other problematic particles working their way between the clear cover and your print - the image will remain just as uninterrupted and clear as the day it was delivered.

1. First a sheet of plexiglass and a sheet of aluminium are cut to fit your print

2. A piece of transparent mounting tissue is placed between the print and the aluminium backing. This "sandwich" passes through the cold press, which forms an adhesive bond. (Sometimes the aluminium will have an adhesive attached, which eliminates the need for the tissue.)

3. The same process is followed to affix the plexiglass to the front of the print.

4. Once the pieces are fused together, a custom size, heavy-duty hanging system is attached to the aluminium backing. This rectangular frame sits in from the edges of the face mount, creating a "floating" effect. The plexi face mount is hung on the wall using only a nail or two.

If you plan to paint on your canvas print, the ClearShield coating will not be a problem for acrylic or oil paints.

Even our regular mats are treated with calcium carbonate to keep them acid-neutral for 100 years.

If your image has a white border around it, do not cut this off prior to matting. We can minimize the amount of overlap on the actual image if there is enough space around the edge.

Conservation mat boards have a core of acid- and lignin-free cotton, and a facing of wood pulp paper. They protect the artwork from acid burn and degradation for at least 100 years, and have a mid-range cost.

Museum core mat boards are made entirely of cotton rag paper. They are guaranteed to have no adverse reaction with artwork for hundreds of years. Museum mat boards are the most expensive and the best quality.

For average sized artwork (about 11x14" to 30x20"), the common mat width is 2". If you artwork is smaller, you might consider a 1.75 or 1.5" mat. If you artwork is very large, a 3" or 4" mat may be necessary to ensure an aesthetically pleasing ratio. Please see our article Measuring for Mats for more information.

Another option for larger artwork is to purchase a linen liner. Because these are custom made like picture frames, you can order larger sizes. Please note, however, that liners are thicker than matboards, and may require a frame with a deeper rabbet.

Order online: Full, 32x40" Matboards

"Matte" or "matt" may also refer to a smooth, non-reflective finish.

We will do all other calculations for you, such as the mat offset and the total frame size. Please see our article, Measuring for Mats for more information.

Likewise, warmer images are beautiful as wood prints. A rustic farmer's field will seem to glow when the natural wood color and grain show through in the clouds.

A paper print dry-mounted on di-bond aluminium composite should not be hung outdoors.

In the former, the inks are transferred directly into the metal sheet. In the latter process, a paper print is affixed to a sheet of aluminium di-bond using a heat-sensitive adhesive tissue.

To learn more about these techniques, please read our Metal Prints article.

Dye sublimation prints are only available on standard sizes, since the metal is specially coated and cut prior at the manufacturer before we receive it.

Clear-coated metal plates are also available. Since no white ink is used to print your image, pictures placed on this brushed silver surface will have an artsy, industrial effect, with the formerly white areas now becoming brushed silver.

Regardless of which metal style you choose, your metal print will remain just like new for years with our high quality inks and sublimation products.

Boxes with heavy items are carefully reinforced, and even paper prints are safely sandwiched between cardboard and then packed in their own box. Learn more about shipping by reading our article on custom-made shipping boxes.

A paper print is a great option. We have many different fine art papers that range in price. We can ship your print unframed, so you can order a frame at another time, or devise a different, creative way of displaying the image.

If you want a framed print, consider choosing something small but with a punch of color so it really stands out on the wall. Our picture frames come in a wide range of prices.

Consider a plaque mount. For less than $50, you can get an 11x14" print that is fully mounted and laminated - all you need to do is hang it on the wall. We even offer different edge colors so you can create the appearance of a frame.

Take some pictures or a video of your room, and send it to us along with room dimensions and preferences. Our consultant will study your space and come up with some suggestions, including images, frames, and sizes. They will communicate with you by phone or email to discuss your personal style and budget, and arrange the perfect decor for your special space.

Visit our Art Consultation Services page.

Our FrameLight Shadow Box article explains how this great product works and even tells you how to put it together once you've ordered.

Please ensure that the information you submit with your order is completely accurate. Feel free to contact us to discuss the order once it is placed if there are any details about which you are concerned.

Bear in mind that if each item must be digitally altered or scanned, or requires excessive clarification, the entire process will take longer. We recommend you place your order as much in advance as possible. This is the best way to eliminate issues and keep you stress-free!

• Fine Art paper prints
• Canvas prints
• Plaque mounts
• Plexi face mounts
• Greeting cards
• Mounting boards
• Wood panels
• Artist canvas
• Art supplies
• Stock image galleries
• Handmade oil paintings

• Custom picture framing
• Artwork scanning
• Custom canvas stretching
• Digital image editing
• Resin and Gel coatings
• Canvas transfers
• Local Artist Gallery Program

Link: Products and Services

M = thousand
bg = bag
bt = bottle
bx = box
ctn = carton
dr = drum
ea = each  
ft = feet
gl = gallon
in = inch
lbs = pounds
oz = ounces 
pb = polybag 
pk = pack or package
pt = pint
qty = quantity
rl = roll

 
33.9 grams = 1.20 ounce(s)
1 square meter = 1.19599 square yard
33.9 g/m²(gsm) = 1.00 oz/yd²

FYI:
GSM aka g/m² = grams per square meter
oz/yd2 = ounces per yard squared
1 gram = 0.03527 ounces  
1 lb = 16 oz = 453.59237 grams  
1 inch = 2.54 cm  
1 yd = 36 inches = 0.9144 m = 91.44 cm  

Its subtle textured surface on one-side creates a glare-free view from any angle, while showing off the natural beauty of your artwork and prints. This extruded sheet’s thickness tolerance make it ideal for braille signage. Its high optical quality and the fact that it contains 0% recycled content significantly reduce the occurrence of issues such as voids and char which can be found in other non-glare sheets.

Other benefits include faster assembly times, increased joint strength, improved precision, and the ability to disassemble and reassemble joints without damaging the components. They also eliminate the need for visible fasteners, enhancing the aesthetic appeal.

The keys are made of a high strength plastic and made to very high tolerances to ensure a perfect fit in a properly routed slot. They come in different sizes (w0-w4), Lengths and even colors.

Hoffmann dovetail keys are a specific type of dovetail key produced by Hoffmann Machine Company. They are precision-made plastic or metal keys used to join materials with a unique dovetail slotting system.

more info on wiki: click here

• EPS/Expanded Polystyrene. This is the most common foam for hot wiring as it is strong, lightweight and cuts very easily with a hot wire or hot knife. It is usually white and is made of tiny foam bubbles. It’s often used for packaging.

• XPS/Extruded Polystyrene. This is usually a denser foam that is very smooth and although the cuts are slower than EPS they are very clean and smooth. Some examples of XPS foam are Styrofoam, Owens Corning Pinkboard (Foamular), and DOW Blueboard.

In addition, some materials have reflective surfaces that can deflect the laser beam, making it difficult or impossible to cut. And some materials, such as fabrics and some types of paper, can be easily burned or melted by the laser.

Therefore, while a laser is a versatile cutting tool that can be used on many different materials, it cannot cut everything, and it's important to carefully consider the properties of the material and the capabilities of the laser before attempting to cut it.

Some of the best types of wood for laser cutting include:

1. Birch - Birch is a light-colored hardwood that is popular for laser cutting because it is relatively dense and has a tight grain. It is also widely available and relatively inexpensive.
2. Maple - Maple is another hardwood that is popular for laser cutting because of its density and tight grain. It is also a good choice for laser engraving because it has a smooth and even surface.
3. Cherry - Cherry is a hardwood that is known for its rich, warm color and attractive grain pattern. It is a good choice for laser cutting because it is dense and has a fine, even grain.
4. Walnut - Walnut is a dark-colored hardwood that is popular for its rich color and attractive grain pattern. It is also a good choice for laser cutting because it is dense and has a tight, even grain.
5. Mahogany
6. Oak
7. MDF (medium-density fiberboard) - While not technically a type of wood, MDF is a popular material for laser cutting because it is dense, smooth, and has a uniform texture. It is also relatively inexpensive and widely available.

1. CO2 Laser Cutters: These are the most common type of laser cutters, which use a carbon dioxide gas mixture as the laser medium. They are typically used for cutting non-metallic materials such as wood, acrylic, and plastic. CO2 lasers are known for their versatility, affordability, and ease of use.
2. Fiber Laser Cutters: These use a fiber optic cable to deliver the laser beam, and they are typically used for cutting metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, and brass. Fiber laser cutters are known for their speed and precision, and they are becoming increasingly popular in industrial applications.
3. Semiconductor Lasers (Laser Diodes):

Pros:

1. High precision: Laser cutting is highly accurate and can produce intricate designs with high precision, making it ideal for producing detailed parts and components.
2. Versatility: Laser cutting can be used to cut a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, wood, and even fabrics. This makes it a versatile technology for a variety of applications.
3. Speed: Laser cutting is a fast process, allowing for quick production of parts and components.
4. Clean cuts: Laser cutting produces clean cuts with minimal debris, reducing the need for post-processing and improving the overall quality of the finished product.
5. Low material waste: Laser cutting is a highly efficient process that minimizes material waste, making it an eco-friendly choice.

1. Cost: Laser cutting equipment can be expensive, which may be a barrier to entry for small businesses or individuals.
2. Limited thickness: Laser cutting is not ideal for cutting thick materials, as the laser may struggle to penetrate the material.
3. Hazardous: The use of lasers can be hazardous, and appropriate safety measures need to be taken to avoid accidents.
4. Burn marks: Laser cutting can leave burn marks on some materials, which may require additional post-processing.
5. Maintenance: Laser cutting equipment requires regular maintenance and calibration to ensure accurate cuts and optimal performance.

To enhance the water-resistance of bamboo, it is often treated with a protective finish, such as varnish or oil. This helps to seal the bamboo and protect it from moisture, making it more resistant to water damage. However, even with a protective finish, it is still important to avoid exposing bamboo to excessive moisture or prolonged exposure to water to prevent any potential damage.

In summary, while bamboo is not entirely waterproof, it is more resistant to water damage than other types of wood, making it a good choice for use in areas with high humidity or occasional exposure to water.

Bamboo's strength can be attributed to its unique composition. Unlike wood, bamboo is a type of grass that grows in a cylindrical shape, with the fibers running lengthwise throughout the stalk. These fibers are tightly woven together and held in place by a natural resin, giving bamboo its strength and flexibility.

In addition to its strength, bamboo is also known for its durability and resistance to damage from insects and moisture. This makes it a popular choice for a wide range of applications, from construction to furniture making and even as a material for athletic gear.

Overall, while the strength of bamboo can vary depending on factors such as the species and age of the plant, it is generally considered to be stronger than many types of wood, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of uses.

Another potential disadvantage of bamboo wood is that it can be more expensive than other types of wood, particularly if it is sourced from high-quality, sustainably grown bamboo. However, this cost may be offset by the fact that bamboo is a highly renewable resource that grows quickly and requires fewer resources to cultivate compared to traditional hardwoods.

However, it is important to note that some bamboo products may be treated with chemicals or finishes that can be harmful if ingested or inhaled. For example, bamboo flooring may be treated with formaldehyde-based adhesives, which can emit VOCs and be harmful if not properly ventilated.

To ensure the safety of bamboo products, it is important to choose products that are made from high-quality, sustainably sourced bamboo and have been treated with safe and non-toxic finishes. It is also important to follow any manufacturer's instructions for proper use and maintenance to ensure that the product remains safe and in good condition.

The unique feature of cradled wood panels is that they are less likely to warp or bend over time compared to uncradled panels. This is because the cradle helps to distribute the weight of the panel evenly, reducing the amount of stress placed on the panel itself. Cradled panels are also easier to hang and display, as the cradle provides a built-in support system that can be used to attach hanging hardware or display stands.

Cradled wood panels are a popular choice for artists who work with painting, drawing, printmaking, and mixed media. They come in a variety of sizes and thicknesses and can be made from a range of woods, including birch, maple, and poplar. Additionally, the cradle can be left unfinished or painted or stained to complement or contrast with the panel surface.

Mini floater frames are often used to showcase smaller pieces of art and add a unique visual element to the presentation. They are available in various styles, materials, and finishes, making them a popular choice for artists, photographers, and art enthusiasts looking for a contemporary way to display their creations.

Several countries are known for producing high-quality artist canvas, each with its own strengths and characteristics. Some of the top countries known for producing artist canvas include:

1. Belgium: Belgian linen is considered some of the best in the world for its fine weave, strength, and durability. It is often used by professional artists for high-quality paintings.
2. Italy: Italy is known for producing fine cotton canvases, often with a medium to fine weave. Italian canvas is prized for its smooth surface and quality construction.
3. France: French canvas, particularly from the town of Arles, is highly regarded for its quality and texture. French linen canvases are often preferred for their strength and durability.
4. United States: American canvas, especially cotton duck canvas, is popular among artists for its affordability and quality. Some American manufacturers produce high-quality, professional-grade canvases.
5. India: Indian cotton canvases are known for their affordability and good quality. They are often used by artists looking for a balance between quality and cost.
6. China: While China is known for producing a wide range of canvases, the quality can vary. Some Chinese manufacturers produce high-quality canvases that are suitable for professional use.

Ultimately, the best artist canvas depends on the artist's preferences, painting style, and budget. It's essential to consider factors such as weave, weight, texture, and material (linen or cotton) when choosing a canvas for a specific artwork.

Vector Files

• SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics): Ideal for laser cutting due to its scalability and precision.
• AI (Adobe Illustrator): Provides precise control over vector paths, popular among designers.
• DXF (Drawing Exchange Format): Common in CAD applications and supported by most laser cutting software.
• EPS (Encapsulated PostScript): Widely supported vector format, suitable for high-quality, scalable designs.
• PDF (Portable Document Format): Can be used for both vector and raster images; ensure the content is vector-based for cutting.

Raster Files (for Engraving)

• BMP (Bitmap): Suitable for high-resolution images required for detailed engraving.
• PNG (Portable Network Graphics): Supports transparency and high resolution, ideal for detailed designs.
• JPG/JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): Common for photographs and images; ensure high resolution for quality engraving.
• TIFF (Tagged Image File Format): High-quality, uncompressed format, suitable for detailed image engraving.

Additional Tips

• Vector vs. Raster: Use vector files for cutting and detailed line work. Use high-resolution raster files for engraving images and textures.
• Resolution: For raster images, ensure a resolution of at least 300 DPI (dots per inch) for clear and detailed engraving.
• Color Mode: Use grayscale images for engraving to control the depth based on intensity.
• File Preparation: Convert all text to outlines/paths in vector files and clean up unnecessary nodes for smooth cutting.

By using these file formats and following best practices, you can achieve precise and high-quality results in your laser cutting and engraving projects.

A 150W CO2 laser is a powerful tool capable of cutting and engraving a wide variety of materials with precision. Below is a list of materials that can be effectively cut or engraved with a 150W CO2 laser, along with some specific considerations for each material.

Materials for Cutting

• Wood
  • Types: Plywood, MDF, hardwoods, and softwoods
  • Thickness: Up to 20mm, depending on the type of wood and desired cutting speed
• Acrylic (Plexiglass)
  • Types: Cast and extruded acrylic
  • Thickness: Up to 20mm for clear acrylic; colored and thicker acrylics may require multiple passes
• Leather
  • Types: Natural and synthetic leathers
  • Thickness: Up to 12mm
• Fabric
  • Types: Cotton, polyester, felt, silk, and other textiles
  • Thickness: Up to 10mm
• Paper and Cardboard
  • Types: All types of paper, cardboard, and cardstock
  • Thickness: Up to 5mm
• Plastic
  • Types: ABS, polycarbonate, polyethylene, and polypropylene
  • Thickness: Varies by type; generally up to 10mm
• Foam
  • Types: EVA foam, polyethylene foam, and polyurethane foam
  • Thickness: Up to 30mm
• Rubber
  • Types: Natural rubber and synthetic rubber (ensure no chlorine content)
  • Thickness: Up to 12mm
• Cork
  • Types: Natural cork and agglomerated cork
  • Thickness: Up to 15mm

Materials for Engraving

• Wood
  • Types: All types of wood, including plywood, MDF, hardwoods, and softwoods
  • Depth: Adjustable based on laser settings
• Acrylic (Plexiglass)
  • Types: Cast and extruded acrylic
  • Depth: Adjustable based on laser settings
• Glass
  • Types: Flat glass, mirrors, and glassware
  • Depth: Surface engraving only
• Ceramic
  • Types: Tiles, plates, and mugs
  • Depth: Surface engraving only
• Stone
  • Types: Granite, marble, slate, and other natural stones
  • Depth: Surface engraving only
• Metal (with coating)
  • Types: Anodized aluminum, painted metals, and coated stainless steel
  • Depth: Surface marking only; bare metals require a marking compound
• Leather
  • Types: Natural and synthetic leathers
  • Depth: Adjustable based on laser settings
• Fabric
  • Types: Cotton, polyester, felt, silk, and other textiles
  • Depth: Surface marking only
• Plastic
  • Types: ABS, polycarbonate, polyethylene, and polypropylene
  • Depth: Adjustable based on laser settings
• Rubber
  • Types: Natural rubber and synthetic rubber (ensure no chlorine content)
  • Depth: Adjustable based on laser settings

Differences Between Cast and Extruded Acrylic for Laser Cutting and Engraving

When it comes to laser cutting and engraving, the type of acrylic you choose can significantly affect the quality and characteristics of your work. Here are the key differences between cast and extruded acrylic:

Cast Acrylic

• Quality and Appearance
  • Higher Quality: Cast acrylic generally offers superior quality, resulting in a clearer, more polished finish.
  • Color Consistency: Better color consistency throughout the material.
• Laser Cutting
  • Edge Finish: Produces a smooth, flame-polished edge when laser cut.
  • Thickness Tolerance: Greater thickness tolerance, leading to more consistent cuts.
• Laser Engraving
  • Engraving Quality: Provides a white, frosted appearance when engraved, making it ideal for detailed and high-contrast designs.
  • Depth of Engraving: More consistent and deeper engravings compared to extruded acrylic.
• Cost
  • Higher Cost: Typically more expensive than extruded acrylic due to the manufacturing process.

Extruded Acrylic

• Quality and Appearance
  • Lower Quality: May have minor impurities and less optical clarity compared to cast acrylic.
  • Color Variability: Slight color variations can occur within the same sheet.
• Laser Cutting
  • Edge Finish: Produces a less smooth edge, often with a slight burr, which may require additional finishing.
  • Thickness Tolerance: Tighter thickness tolerance, which can result in more precise cutting dimensions but less flexibility.
• Laser Engraving
  • Engraving Quality: Engraving results in a more transparent look, which may not provide as much contrast as cast acrylic.
  • Depth of Engraving: Shallower engravings compared to cast acrylic, often requiring multiple passes for depth.
• Cost
  • Lower Cost: Generally more affordable than cast acrylic, making it a cost-effective option for less critical applications.

Summary

Cast Acrylic: Ideal for high-quality, detailed, and visually appealing laser cutting and engraving projects. It provides a better finish and more consistent results but comes at a higher cost.

Extruded Acrylic: Suitable for applications where budget is a concern, and the highest quality finish is not required. It offers cost savings but may require additional processing to achieve the desired finish.

By understanding these differences, you can choose the right type of acrylic for your specific laser cutting and engraving needs, ensuring optimal results for your projects.

Transparent Acrylic Sheets

Transparent acrylic sheets are clear and allow light to pass through them without significant diffusion, similar to how glass works. These sheets are perfect for applications requiring maximum visibility and light transmission, such as display cases, picture framing, and windows.

Translucent acrylic sheets allow light to pass through but diffuse it, meaning you can't see through them clearly. They provide some level of privacy while still letting light in. These sheets are often used for light fixtures, partitions, and decorative elements where you want a soft, diffused light.

Opaque acrylic sheets do not allow light to pass through at all. They are completely solid in color and are used in applications where visibility through the material is not desired. These sheets are ideal for signage, protective barriers, and artistic applications where bold, solid colors are needed.

It is recommended to prime cradled wood panels before painting to create a smooth, sealed surface. Gesso is commonly used as a primer, but other primers may be suitable depending on the chosen medium.

To prepare a cradled wood panel, lightly sand the surface to remove any rough spots, then apply several coats of gesso, sanding lightly between coats to achieve a smooth finish. Allow the gesso to dry completely before starting to paint.

To seal a finished piece, apply a clear varnish or protective coating suitable for the type of paint used. This will protect the artwork from dust, UV light, and other environmental factors. Make sure the varnish is compatible with the medium.

Visibility: The non-glare surface scatters light, which can cause the contents of the shadow box to appear blurry or less clear. Shadow boxes often contain detailed or three-dimensional items that need to be seen clearly.

Depth Perception: Shadow boxes are designed to create a sense of depth by displaying items in a three-dimensional space. Non-glare Plexiglas can diminish this effect by diffusing light in a way that flattens the visual perception of depth.

Aesthetic Quality: The diffused light can alter the appearance of colors and textures within the shadow box, making them appear duller than they would with clear glazing.

For these reasons, clear acrylic sheets are generally preferred for shadow boxes, as they provide a clear view of the contents and maintain the intended visual depth and detail.