Laser engraving makes it possible to create a wide range of products, from laser engraved signs to laser engraved crafts such as cutting boards or home décor, the possibilities are endless. Though many materials can be used with a laser engraver, wood is one of the most common choices. Wood is a popular material for laser engraving due to its natural beauty, versatility, and durability. Yet knowing what wood is best for laser engraving can sometimes feel like a challenge.
At Aeon Laser Canada, we are your source for high-quality laser engraving machines and are also here to offer support to make using your laser engraver easier. We know that discovering what is the best wood to laser engrave can feel like a trial-and-error process. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the best wood for laser engraving and help you feel prepared to select the right wood type for your next laser engraving project.
Types of Wood for Laser Engraving
Many types of wood can be used for laser engraving. When you are looking to learn what is the best wood for laser engraving, consider your desired finished look, the functionality of the product, and budget constraints. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to choosing wood for a laser engraving product though some types may work better than others depending on the application. Use this guide to help make choosing a wood type easier.
Plywood – Plywood is a versatile and inexpensive option for laser engraving. It is made up of thin layers of wood that are glued together to form a single sheet. Plywood is a stable and consistent material that is easy to cut and engrave with a laser. It also has a smooth surface that is perfect for detailed designs and images, making it a great choice for signs and décor.
MDF – Medium-density fibreboard (MDF) is another popular choice for laser engraving. It is made up of wood fibres that are compressed and bonded together with resin to form a dense and stable sheet. MDF is a smooth and uniform material that is easy to cut and engrave with a laser. It also has a consistent density that ensures a consistent engraving depth and can be used in a variety of applications.
Maple – Maple is a popular hardwood that is ideal for laser engraving. It has a light colour and a fine grain that makes it perfect for detailed designs and text. Maple is also a durable and strong wood that can withstand the heat and intensity of laser engraving and can be a great choice when looking for a high-quality finished product.
Cherry – Cherry is another hardwood option that is perfect for laser engraving. It has a rich, reddish-brown colour and a fine, straight grain that makes it ideal for detailed designs and text. Cherry is also a strong and durable wood that is resistant to warping and cracking, which makes it a suitable choice for kitchen-related uses such as cutting boards. Keep in mind that cherry wood and other dense woods will need a powerful laser engraving machine to execute engraving effectively.
Alder – Alder is a softwood that works well for laser engraving. It has a light colour and a fine, uniform grain that makes it easy to engrave with a laser. Alder is also a stable and consistent wood that is resistant to warping and splitting, making it a versatile choice.
Bamboo -Bamboo is a unique material that is becoming increasingly popular for laser engraving. It is a renewable resource that is sustainable and eco-friendly. Bamboo has a light colour and a distinctive grain that makes it perfect for laser engraving. It is also a strong and durable material that is resistant to warping and cracking.
When it comes to choosing a wood type for laser engraving, you have many options. Always consider what the finished product will be used for when selecting a wood type, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different wood types. To learn more about laser engraving of wood, see our posts, Get Creative with Laser Engraving on Wood, and How to Create a Darker Effect with Laser Engraving.