Protecting the furniture against water and moisture stains while a drink is placed on top of it can be challenging, but a coaster can eliminate this struggle. Coasters are the perfect tool to keep any surface safe from water damage.
These are also ideal tools to help a drink from getting contaminated by keeping it on top of the glass. Since their invention in the 15th Century, coasters are frequently used all around the world.
But now, with technological advancements and print-of demand industry taking a step forward , customized coasters are easily available in the market now. These are the preferred choice for the people opting for gift giving and adding a personal touch to their living and work space.
Personalized coasters are a captivating product that can bring a vibrant look to any space without being in the way. These are visually attractive and a practical item for everyday use. Bulk manufacturing of traditional coasters is an everyday practice , but transforming them into more customized items can boost the creative nature of the individual.
Only the highest quality laser engraving machines, should be preferred for this purpose. ComMarker comes forward with its premium Q1 Diode Laser Engraver that is highly compatible with carving wood coasters.
In order to create personalized laser engraved coasters , we have created an exclusive article here that covers the appropriate materials, kinds of design and laser settings to engrave coasters below.
Table of Contents
Choosing the Right Materials
The first aspect to getting top quality results on laser engraved coasters is selecting the appropriate materials. This helps decide how the final result will look and whether it aligns with the chosen theme.
1. Wood
For a more rustic, warm and natural look, most people prefer wood as a material to be used for coasters. With different patterns and types of wood such as cedar, pine, alder, beech are preferred choices due to their durability and ease of use. These coasters can be easily engraved, creating a charred look on their own. Also, these woods can be easily stained with various dyes and paints for a multi-layered pattern.
Different patterns and designs can be created on these coasters such as different images, animations, illustrations, favorites quotes in different fonts, symbols and name initials. With ComMarker’s Q1 Diode Laser , a high precision of 0.05 mm , designs can be created easily.
Q1 Diode Laser Engraver
ComMarker Q1 True Industrial-grade 10W Diode Galvanometer Laser Engraver Portable & Affordable Industrial-Grade Application: Q1 diode laser engraver VS CO2
2. Acrylic
Next popular product we have is acrylic, which gives a more modern vibe. High contrast engravings are created on this. This material comes in different thickness that offer water resistance and corrosion resistance. This is a long-lasting material and can come in use for longer times.
Due to the characteristics of acrylic material itself，Minimalist designs can be formed on it. . Due to their moisture resistant properties, they can be used over a drinkware or under a glass, providing protection in both aspects.ComMarker’s CO2 Marking Machine is ideal to engrave acrylics easily.
ComMarker CO2 Laser Marking Machine
Industry-leading CO2 Galvo Laser engraver and Marking System Different from fiber laser engraver machine ,CO2 laser marking machine adopt CO2 RF
3. Slate
For a light color contrast, some people prefer getting slate laser engraved to create coasters. This is textured and dark in appearance for a more industrial look. The material has water-resistant properties and is hard-wearing, making it an excellent choice. Different images, patterns and even text can be engraved on such a material without any hassle. With some practice, 3D engraving can also be easily implemented on slate materials
The Effect of Material Choice that Affects the Laser Engraving Process
Significantly effecting the engraving process are the different materials chosen. These create different final looks of the coasters and have different factors to consider.
- Wood requires careful adjustments and working on low power to avoid burning of the material. The dryer the wood is, the cleaner the engraving will be. Natural finish is created with wood.
- Laser power should be set to a certain level to avoid the melting of an acrylic coaster. A polished look can be created with laser engraving acrylics. Proper ventilation is required while engraving acrylics, as they create fumes during the process.
- Due to being hard, slate require high laser power to create crisp engravings. Light-colored designs can be created on these.
Design Essentials
Next factor you need to consider are the design choices you take to create customized coasters.
Software Selection
The right software is essential to create accurate designs as determined before the whole process. LightBurn software is highly compatible with most laser marking machines. This is an excellent option that aids vector editing and provides variable power control during the engraving process. It is beginner-friendly and can easily work off pre-designed patterns on blank coasters.
Design Selection
Choosing the right design is the next step. As coasters have small surface area, complex designs can hold a lot of space, looking more cluttered. Simple designs, symbols, name initials, animations and mage are the best option in this regard. Thick fonts should be preferred that can eye catching and more available. Designs with shallow engravings should be adopted for to create durable designs.
Setting Up and Operating Your Laser Engraver
Arranging and assembling the laser engraver for marking coasters should be understood before jumping on to how to go ahead with the whole process. For a beginner-friendly approach on how to engrave on coasters, follow our guideline below.
- First and foremost is to select the appropriate material that is food-grade quality and understand If the laser engraver is compatible with the material.
- Set up the vector graphics software such as LightBurn . Install it and connect it with the laser engraving machine.
- Remove any debris from the engraving area of the laser engraver that can be there from any previous projects.
- Adjust laser settings and start with lower power and move on to a higher power for better results.
- For faster engraving, set the speed higher or according to the material used.
- Doing the material test before setting the parameter will be a good idea before you start working with a new material.
- Open the design file in the laser engraver software and allow the laser engraver to preview the exact design on the coaster.
- Start the laser engraver by switching it on, the laser will automatically move n the designated areas to remove material from the surface.
- This will leave the desired design on the coaster with all the details precisely. You can look at the design and wipe the coaster off to remove any debris.
Post-Engraving Finishing Touches
After laser engraving, the coasters can be prone to external damage and also may produce toxins If not sealed with a protective coat accordingly. Here are the post-engraving techniques you can sue of coasters for a pristine look.
Wood Coasters
Apply fine-grit sandpaper to any surfaces that are uneven or have rough edges as a result of the engraving. To preserve the wood’s surface against dampness while also enhancing its attractiveness, use a natural wood finish or food-grade mineral oil. You can also apply FDA-approved Epoxy resin on wood coasters as well.
Acrylic Coasters
Improving the clearness and shine may be done by buffing the engraved area using a microfiber cloth to remove any smudges or dust particles. Apply acrylic paint over previously covered surfaces using masking tape for more color or detail. Before using any acrylic paint, make sure it is compatible with the paint. To achieve a glossy, smooth surface and give the engraving more depth, apply a thin coating of transparent epoxy resin.
Slate Coasters:
To prevent water damage and stains, seal the slate with a food-safe sealant. Use chalk or acrylic paint to fill in the etched sections for increased contrast and clarity. Pick hues that bring out the most in the slate’s natural tones.
Conclusion
Coasters are practical tools used in the everyday to protect drinks from external contaminants, as well as secure furniture from moisture damage. Customized coasters are high in demand and with the help of different materials, vibrant and statement coasters can be created. Use proper settings of a laser engraver to create these design accordingly. We hope this article a do maximum help to you.
