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How Does Laser Engraving Work?

Putting a company logo on your merchandise is a great way to promote brand awareness and advertise. Here at Merchology, we offer the ability to decorate apparel and hard goods from top-notch brand names like Under Armour, S'well, and Yeti. We use high-quality laser marking to put your logo on your products and help your company logo stand out! When it comes to branding your products, there are actually two different methods of laser marking: laser engraving and laser etching. Let us explain the difference between engraving and etching so you can make the best decision for your company!

What is Laser Engraving?

To keep it simple, laser marking is when a laser is used to create permanent marks on the surface of an object. Laser engraving is the process of using a laser to dig into the surface of an object to leave a cavity in the shape of your desired pattern or logo. It’s like using a chisel to carve into stone! Engraving leaves deeper marks than etching and the process keeps both the design and product durable! A laser-engraved tumbler purchased from Merchology is sturdy enough to withstand your daily commute, an adventurous outdoor gathering, and even your break room’s dishwasher!

Laser etching uses lasers in a different way. A laser etching machine takes a high-temperature laser beam to melt the outermost layer of an object to leave a slightly raised marking in the customer’s desired shape. An easy way to tell the difference between the two is by touch! The design on a laser engraved object will feel carved in while the laser-etched design will feel raised up from the surface.

Laser Engraving on S'well water bottle

How Does 3D Laser Etching Work?

Laser etching your products requires a few important things: your design or logo, a laser marking device, a computer, proper software, and the products you’d like to engrave. In order to get the engraving done, a laser engraving machine is hooked up to a computer that uses software to program the laser with the exact pattern needed. Simply place the object beneath the laser, upload the image to the software, and the computer will take care of the rest! The whole process can be done from behind a desk. Laser etching is excellent for stainless steel knives and kitchenware. The laser etch aluminum leaves a beautiful contrast and looks great on the handle of a leatherman or pocket knife.

Contact Us at Merchology!

Here at Merchology, we have many different options for laser engraving and etching. Our custom engraving process can be done on plastic, wood, stone, and metal! One of the most popular options is our collection of customizable stainless steel water bottles.

If you want some more variety, check out our large catalog of home goods and kitchenware. Need more information? Contact us at Merchology to get started on finding the perfect laser-etched logo gifts for you and your team!