Prepare your files for laser cutting and get quoted faster.
Properly prepared files help reduce delays, avoid extra setup fees, and ensure your quote is accurate from the start. Review each section below before submitting your design.
Accepted File Types
We accept vector files for the best cutting results. Vector files contain clean paths the laser follows precisely.
Scalable Vector Graphics
Encapsulated PostScript
Adobe Illustrator
Vector preferred
What about JPG or PNG files?
Raster images (JPG, PNG, BMP) are made of pixels, not paths. They may require extra setup time to convert into cuttable vectors, which can add cost and delay to your project.
Vector
Clean paths, infinitely scalable
Raster
Pixels, quality loss when scaled
Design at Real Size
Your design must be created at the final size you want the part produced. If your finished piece should be 3 inches wide, the design file should also be exactly 3 inches wide.
Scaling issues are one of the most common problems. Double-check your document dimensions before exporting.
Scaled from small artwork
1:1 real size design
Use Vector Paths for Cutting
Laser cutters follow vector lines — not filled shapes. Your design files should contain clean paths, outlines instead of filled shapes, and all text converted to outlines.
Text Not Outlined
Fonts may not render correctly
Text Converted to Outlines
Clean vector paths ready to cut
Avoid Duplicate or Overlapping Lines
Duplicate or overlapping lines cause the laser to cut the same path twice. This can burn through material, leave scorch marks, or weaken the cut edge.
- Duplicate lines stacked
- Overlapping shapes
- Clean single cut path
- No duplicate vectors
Minimum Feature Size
Very small or thin features can break, warp, or melt during cutting. As a general rule, small details should not be thinner than the material thickness.
Example: For 1/8" acrylic, avoid features thinner than 1/8". Extremely thin bridges or small internal cutouts are likely to break.
Too Thin
Will break or melt
Correct Thickness
Sturdy and clean
Floating Elements
Any shape not physically connected to the main design will fall out after cutting. This commonly happens with letters like A, O, D, B, and R — the enclosed centers will drop out unless bridges are added.
Floating Center
Inner shape will fall out
Bridged Shape
Bridges keep center connected
Remove Notes and Dimensions
Your submitted file should contain only the geometry to be cut or engraved. Remove everything else before exporting.
Cluttered File
Clean Cut File
Quantity
You only need to upload one copy of your design. Specify the quantity you need in the quote request form — we handle the rest.
Upload one → specify quantity in the form
Engraving
If your project includes both cutting and engraving, the engraving elements should be visually separated from cut paths. Use different colors or layers in your design software.
Include any engraving instructions in your project notes when submitting a quote — describe what should be engraved and where.
Tips for engraving files:
- Separate cut and engrave layers
- Use different colors for each operation
- Include notes describing engraving details
Need Help Preparing Your File?
If your file isn't perfect, don't worry. Upload what you have and include details about your project:
Red Laser Studio can review your file and work with you before production begins.