What Materials Can I Safely Use With My Laser?
Whether you're a hobbyist or just getting started with your laser cutter/engraver, knowing what materials are safe to use is essential for both your safety and your machine's longevity.
Safe Materials to Use
These materials are generally safe to cut or engrave with most diode, CO₂, or fiber lasers:
Woods
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Plywood (laser-safe types, e.g., Baltic birch)
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MDF (medium-density fiberboard, formaldehyde-free preferred)
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Solid woods (cherry, maple, walnut, etc.)
Tips:
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Watch for glue layers in plywood — some adhesives can emit harmful fumes.
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Always use ventilation when cutting wood.
Acrylic
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Safe and popular for crisp cuts and engravings.
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Look for cast acrylic (better engraving results) or extruded acrylic (cleaner cuts).
Avoid: Polycarbonate (looks similar but produces toxic gas).
Paper & Cardboard
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Paper, cardstock, chipboard, and corrugated cardboard cut easily.
Watch out: These materials are highly flammable. Never leave them unattended.
Leather
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Vegetable-tanned leather is safe for engraving and cutting.
- Craft Closet's Laser Safe Faux Leather
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Do not use chrome-tanned leather — it releases toxic chromium gases.
Fabric
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Natural fabrics like cotton, wool, silk, and felt are generally safe.
Avoid: Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon — they can melt or produce dangerous fumes.
Certain Plastics
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Delrin (acetal): Laser-safe in small amounts and well-ventilated setups.
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Mylar: Can be laser-cut with care, but only in thin sheets.
⚠️ Materials to Avoid Completely
These can release toxic, corrosive, or dangerous fumes when lasered:
| Material | Reason to Avoid |
|---|---|
| PVC / Vinyl | Releases hydrochloric acid gas — corrodes your machine and harms lungs. |
| Polycarbonate | Produces toxic gases and poor cutting quality. |
| ABS Plastic | Melts instead of cutting cleanly, emits dangerous fumes. |
| Styrene / Polystyrene | Highly flammable and releases toxic smoke. |
| Foam Board | Often contains unknown plastics that burn poorly. |
| Fiberglass / Epoxy | Contains glass fibers and resin — emits harmful particles and fumes. |
Quick Safety Checklist
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Check the manufacturer label – Look for laser-safe certification.
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Google it! – When in doubt, search the material + "laser safe".
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Test a small piece – Run a test at low power.
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Ventilation is key – Always run a fan and exhaust system.
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Use materials from Laser safe material sellers- like Craft Closet
Bonus Tip: Make a Material Test Card
Create a small square that engraves power/speed combinations on your material. This helps you find optimal settings without wasting large sheets.
Recap: Golden Rule
If you're not 100% sure it's safe, don’t laser it.
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