Material Deep Dive: Metal

January 21, 2025

Michelle

Think you can't create with metal on your Glowforge? Think again!

In his comprehensive video “Every Laserable Material”, Glowforge owner John K. shows us how to transform metal surfaces into stunning personalized pieces — and we're here to expand on his expert insights.

Let’s dive in!

Getting Started

While your Glowforge can't cut metal (that requires different technology), it can create beautiful engravings on various metal surfaces. Each type of metal requires a specific approach, but the results are worth it: precise, professional-looking designs that last.

Metal engraving with your Glowforge opens up a world of possibilities. Anodized aluminum, like MacBook covers and dog tags, can be engraved directly — the laser removes the colored coating to reveal the bare metal underneath, creating crisp, clean designs. For other metals like stainless steel or copper, you'll use special marking sprays that allow the laser to create permanent, smooth-to-the-touch designs.

The precision of laser engraving means your creations will have that professional, manufactured look every time.

Looking to work with other materials like Acrylic or Leather? We’ve got Material Deep Dives on both! Check out our Acrylic blog and Leather for all the info.

What's the difference between Glowforge and a CNC Mill?

If you're familiar with traditional metal working, you might be wondering how laser engraving compares to using a CNC mill. While both can create designs in metal, your Glowforge offers some distinct advantages. Rather than physically removing material with a bit like a CNC mill does, your Glowforge's laser vaporizes only the surface color — preserving the protective coating that anodizing provides. This means cleaner, more precise results without the hassle of metal shavings to sweep up!

Tips and Tricks for Creating with Metal:

Ready to start your metal engraving journey? Here are our favorite techniques that'll help you create stunning results:

Anodized Aluminum Magic:

Want to customize your laptop or create professional-looking name tags? Anodized aluminum is your new best friend! The laser removes the colored coating to reveal the bare metal underneath, creating striking white marks. Best part? It's as simple as using the pre-set iPhone 7 settings in your Glowforge app!

Cermark Technique:

Here's where things get really exciting. For metals like stainless steel and copper, start by applying Cermark marking spray to your piece. After the laser works its magic, wash away the excess spray to reveal a permanent black marking. Pro tip: Add a clear coat finish to protect your design and enhance the contrast — especially important for copper, which can tarnish quickly.

Painted Metal Projects:

Looking for a different effect? Try this creative approach: prime and paint your metal surface, then use your Glowforge to engrave through the paint. The contrast between the paint and bare metal creates striking results!

Are you brave enough to laser your laptop?

We’ve seen creators customize their MacBook’s lid with Glowforge! But you can still make amazing metal projects without being quite so daring. Here are some popular projects to help you get inspired:

  • Professional business cards in aluminum
  • Personalized dog tags and pet ID plates
  • Engraved flasks and metal gifts
  • Metal signage and plaques
  • Personalized aluminum jewelry

Ready to Explore More Materials?

To watch a seasoned Glowforge creator take on metal projects (and dozens of other materials), check out John K’s video!

Check out our other Material Deep Dives to learn about creating with Wood, Acrylic, and other exciting materials in your laser crafting journey!

We can’t wait to see what you make!