Optimise Artwork for Lasers: Why File Preparation Matters in Laser Processing

Whether you’re marking, cutting, etching, or engraving, the quality of the final laser-processed part is only as good as the file you submit. For Thinklaser’s subcontract service department, working with well-prepared artwork files can significantly reduce setup time, avoid conversion errors, and improve the quality and precision of the output. This article will guide you through the process of optimising artwork files in .dxf, .svg, .AI, and .CDR formats for use with Lightburn (used on flatbed CO₂ and galvo laser systems) or SCAPS (used with fibre-based galvo lasers).

Understanding the Laser Processes at Thinklaser

Thinklaser provides a range of subcontract laser services, including:

• Laser Cutting – Typically performed on non-metallic materials using flatbed CO₂ lasers.
• Laser Marking – Frequently carried out using galvo fibre lasers for metal or plastic components.
• Laser Etching & Engraving – Used to create depth or surface contrast on a variety of substrates.

Each process requires files with specific characteristics and optimisations depending on the equipment used.

Supported File Formats: What to Submit

Thinklaser accepts the following file formats, each with unique advantages:

• .DXF (Drawing Exchange Format): Ideal for CAD-originated vector line work, especially in engineering and manufacturing applications.
• .SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics): Common for graphics or branding files, widely used in design software.
• .AI (Adobe Illustrator): Preferred for creative design files, logos, and artwork with precise vector paths.
• .CDR (CorelDRAW): Especially useful when working with SCAPS systems, as CorelDRAW integrates well with intermediary software used to prepare files.

⚠️ Note: Raster-only file formats (e.g., JPEG, PNG) are not suitable unless the intention is for bitmap engraving, and they may require conversion or tracing at additional cost.

General File Preparation Guidelines

Regardless of format, the following rules apply to all artwork intended for laser processing:

• Design at true scale (1:1) in millimetres.
• Use vector paths for all cut or engraved shapes.
• Ensure line types and colours reflect processing intent:
  • Red for cutting
  • Blue for engraving
  • Black for surface marking (subject to setup)
• Avoid duplicate or overlapping lines which can cause double cuts or excessive burn.
• Convert all text to outlines/paths to ensure compatibility on systems that do not recognise fonts.
• Flatten transparencies, effects, and layers to prevent misinterpretation during import.
• Embed linked images and avoid external dependencies.
• Keep file clean of guides, annotations, or hidden elements.

Optimising Files for Lightburn

Lightburn is used on both CO₂ flatbed and galvo laser systems at Thinklaser. If you have access to a copy of Lightburn, then the following best practices will ensure your artwork imports cleanly:

Recommended Practices

💡 Tip: Use Lightburn’s “Optimise Cut Path” feature and preview mode to simulate your design before submission.

Preparing Files for SCAPS (Galvo Laser Systems)

SCAPS-based systems are typically used for metal marking and precision engraving using fibre lasers.

Key Considerations

• SCAPS does not open .AI or .SVG files natively — we recommend .DXF or .PLT as output formats.
• Files are often imported via CorelDRAW or EZCAD-compatible tools, which may strip unsupported features.
• Avoid:
  • Complex gradients
  • Effects like shadows or glow
  • Any raster content
• Ensure all text is converted to curves.
• When using CorelDRAW, simplify curves and combine shapes where possible to reduce path count.
• Keep file sizes efficient — very detailed logos with excessive anchor points can slow down the galvo system.

💡 Tip: Always test imported files for node integrity and scale correctness before submission.

Common Artwork Issues to Avoid

• Files are not sized correctly (not in mm, not 1:1 scale)
• Fonts not converted to outlines
• Duplicate paths or overlaps causing multiple laser passes
• Excessive anchor points or non-closed vectors
• Use of unsupported features like live effects, masks, or linked images
• Misuse of colours or line types that do not reflect intended operations

Pre-Submission Checklist for Clients

Use the following checklist before submitting your artwork to Thinklaser:

✅ File is in .dxf, .svg, .AI, or .CDR format
✅ All text converted to paths/outlines
✅ Design is 1:1 scale and uses millimetres
✅ All layers/colours reflect correct operations
✅ No duplicate or overlapping paths
✅ No hidden elements, guides, or annotations
✅ Artwork previewed in Lightburn/CorelDRAW without errors
✅ Raster content avoided or traced (if needed)
✅ File named with reference and version number

Conclusion: Optimised Files Deliver Better Results

By following these guidelines, Thinklaser’s subcontract service department can deliver faster turnaround times, better accuracy, and improved consistency in laser processing outcomes. Whether you’re submitting a batch of product plates or a single engraved component, properly optimised artwork ensures your vision is realised exactly as intended.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of your file preparation or would like Thinklaser to review a design before submission, our technical team is ready to help.

Related Services You May Find Useful

• Laser Cutting Services
• Fibre Laser Marking & Engraving Services
• Artwork Consultation & Design Support

Looking for Suitable Software Packages to Generate Your Artworks?

Check out our guide to everything related to software for creating Laser Ready Artwork Files!

.DXF Files	.SVG Files	.CDR Files	.AI Files
AutoCAD (Autodesk)	Adobe Illustrator	CorelDRAW Graphics Suite (X6 or later recommended)	Adobe Illustrator (latest version preferred)
Fusion 360	Inkscape
SolidWorks	Affinity Designer
DraftSight	CorelDRAW (with SVG export)
LibreCAD	Gravit Designer
Rhino

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)