We've got a new material: engraving film. And it's completely different from most of the materials in our range.
It's not a sheet but a thin, flexible film that also has an adhesive layer. This thin film consists of two contrasting colour layers, specially made for engraving.
Engrave away the top layer, and the white or black base layer appears. The colour of the base layer depends on the contrast with the top layer. For you get a black base layer, and for green you get a white one.
But what can you do with it, and how should you process it? We'll be happy to tell you more, so read on to find out.
What is engraving film?
Engraving film is a thin film made of acrylic (PMMA), specially designed for engraving. The film is only 0.2 mm thick and about as flexible as a sheet of stiff paper.
Note: Watch out for creases. Engraving film is flexible and won't break, but a deep crease won't disappear; you'll keep seeing it.
The material consists of two contrasting colours. You only need to engrave away about 0.05 mm of the top layer to reveal the colour underneath. This means even a very shallow engraving gives you a crisp and highly legible result.
The back has an adhesive layer and a protective film. After engraving and cutting out, you can immediately stick the result onto something, even a curved surface.
What colours of engraving film are available?
- White with a black core
- Yellow with a black core
- Light green with a white core
- Lilac metallic with a white core
- Bronze metallic with a black core
For example, with the white film, a black engraving appears, while with the bronze film, you get a black engraving on a metallic background. The plain colours are ideal for clear, functional applications.
What do you use engraving film for?
Engraving film really comes into its own when you want to apply clear information to a surface. Think of nameplates, QR codes, labels, signage, instructional labels, doorbell numbers, or markings on machines and equipment.
Because the film is so thin and flexible, you can stick it not only on a flat surface. It can also bend with a slight curve, making it suitable for curved or rounded surfaces.
The contrast is already in the material itself. So you don't need to colour, print, or finish your engraving in any other way.
Can I laser-cut engraving film?
Absolutely. All colours of engraving film in our range are LaserGrade for CO₂ lasers. With a CO₂ laser, you can engrave the top layer and cut out the complete shape of your label.
We don't recommend this engraving film for diode lasers. The material is made of acrylic (PMMA), which doesn't absorb the wavelength of a diode laser well. For reliable results, use a CO₂ laser.
Here's what to keep in mind about this film
Engraving film is much more flexible than the sheet material you're probably used to in your laser machine. This requires a slightly different way of storing and processing it.
Always store the film flat and don't roll it up. The material is break-resistant, but it is susceptible to sharp creases. Once a crease is in it, it can remain visible.
Due to its low thickness, the film can also curl up or move during laser cutting. Depending on your machine, you might need to weigh down or fix the material additionally.
Large area engravings heat the material, which can cause it to deform and buckle. For laser cutting beginners, we recommend sticking to line engravings and smaller area engravings.
Engrave, cut out, and stick on directly
And that's exactly why we're so excited about this material. With one thin sheet, you can engrave, cut out the desired shape, and then stick the result directly onto something.
You don't need to colour an engraving, apply a separate adhesive layer, or print a label. After laser processing, just peel the protective film from the back, and your part is ready to use.
So, a completely different material from our usual sheets. We're really curious to see what you'll make with it.
Check out engraving film
