In order to produce your part, we’ll need a 2D vector-based file of the design to be cut (DWG, DXF, or Adobe Illustrator format) showing just the flat cut pattern for the part at 1:1 scaling, and no additional information like text, borders, crosshairs, or dimensions. We have a great list of trusted design partners who can help create and prepare artwork for laser cutting unless you will be providing the vector file.
If you’d like to create the vector file, you can check out our blog, which has many tutorials for different design programs including Inkscape, which is free and available for download here if needed! We also highly recommend QCAD since it’s a well-documented open source program. If you’re an Adobe Illustrator user, we have several excellent guides here as well.
You can see our design file guidelines here, and our critical geometry minimums on each individual material spec page here. Our overall part size minimums and maximums can be found here.
Once you have the file prepared, you should be able to upload it to our instant quote tool to compare pricing in each of our materials before checking our through our website. When you create a free account, you can save designs, create saved carts and share them, and re-order instant-quoted parts with one click.
Our typical lead time for parts without additional services like bending, tapping, or anodizing is 2-4 business days before shipping, once the order is approved for production. Shipping speeds will vary based on the size and weight of your order, and we have details here.
In Summary
In order to produce your part, we’ll need a 2D vector-based file of the design to be cut (DWG, DXF, or Adobe Illustrator format) showing just the flat cut pattern for the part at 1:1 scaling, and no additional information like text, borders, crosshairs, or dimensions.
