Surfaces that can be hand engraved

Hand engraving is very versatile. A lot more versatile than machine engraving. The versatility brings a lot of opportunities for unique gifts. From the surface, the colour filling, the density of the surface. The possibilities are endless.

Whether you are new to engraving or a client looking to have some inspiration for engraved gift, here are the most popular surface that can be engraved by hand.

Glass

Glass is engraved by etching it using drill. Some glass surface that are typically engraved are perfume, wine glass, wine bottle, mirror, candle jar, glass coffee mugs, vase and even crystal hour glass. Check out the slides to see some samples.

By Shotlife studio

As published in Wedluxe

Metal

Metal surface come in 2 types; coated and uncoated. Coated metal have enamel paint that after it is engraved, it reveals the colour of the metal (typically silver). Uncoated metal are pretty straightforward and looks elegant when engraved. Some examples of metal surface are lipstick, watch, makeup brush, compass, water bottle, traveler’s coffee mug, knife, and more. Check out the image slides to see these beauties.

Stone

Stone surface are smooth to engrave but tend to be more dusty. It requires deeper cut to achieve contrasting lines. Some examples are marble, slate and perfumes.

Plastic

Plastics are just as fantastic as other popular surface. This material is trickier to engrave; too much pressure can chew up the surface, too light of a pressure won’t be deep enough that when you add colour it won’t show. Some examples of plastic surface are skin and beauty products.

Leather

Leather can also be engraved, but not with a drill. It is engraved with heat, typically with a wood burner. It can be done without colour (like blind debossing) or using heat foil. Genuine leather can be engraved with or without heat foil. Faux leather can only be engraved with heat foil. Without foil, it melts. Some popular examples for this is leather journal, watch, or belt.

Faux leather with heat foiling

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