How Laser Engraving Works on a Wood Cutting Board

From carving names inside a heart on a tree with a knife to using a fine precision laser machine, engraving has been around for a very long time. As generations pass, our technology quickly advances. With brand new ideas being tested around the clock, laser engraving machines are becoming more and more versatile. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, laser engraving is by far the best way to personalize your wood.

How it Works

Laser engraving machines are getting easier to use with every new model. While it may look intimidating to use, there are basically only 3 steps to follow:

1. Create your design on a computer or laptop.
2. Connect the computer or laptop to the laser engraving machine and place your board in the appropriate position.
3. Press go!

Advantages of a Laser Engraving Machine

While there are many ways to get a beautiful design or picture onto a wood cutting board, nothing beats the precision and speed of a laser engraving machine. They are the easiest to use and are extremely efficient. The options are endless!

What Type of Woods can be Laser Engraved?

Although you can laser engrave on almost any type of wood, there are many factors that play into the success or fail of the engraving. The thickness and strength of the board are both very important things to take into account when choosing a wood to engrave on. If the wood isn’t of good quality, your engraving won’t be either.

Some of the best woods to use would include:

• Maple
• Birch
• Alder
• Walnut
• Medium-Density Fibreboard (MDF)
• Bamboo

How to Care for an Engraved Cutting Board

The first thing you should always do with a cutting board, engraved or not, is to seal it with mineral oil, olive oil or beeswax to prevent any cracks that bacteria could grow in. Make sure to wash your cutting board by hand after each use, but never completely submerge the board in the water and never put a wood cutting board through the dishwasher or it might crack and warp.

Other safe ways to protect, disinfect and clean your boards would include:

• Spray the board with vinegar, let it sit and then wipe it down with a clean cloth.
• Dampen the board with warm water and sprinkle with coarse salt. Cut a lemon in half and use the flat side to rub the salt around. Use a brush to clean the surface.
• To get rid of stains, mix 2tbsp of baking soda, 1tbsp of salt and 3tbsp of hot water to create a non-toxic cleaning agent. Apply and remove with a damp cloth.

For further information on how to properly care for your cutting boards, check out our blog article now.

While technology has made laser engraving machines as advanced as they are today, they will only get even better with time! If you’re loving the way engraved wood looks, make sure to check out our favorite models and designs on our website or order your very own custom design today!