How to Prepare Your Files for Laser Cutting: A Simple Checklist
🛠️ Introduction
Ready to get your parts laser cut? Before you hit “send,” there are a few file setup tips that can save you time, cost, and back-and-forth emails.
At Metalmorphic Laser, we work with a wide range of file types, but properly prepared files help us get your job done faster, more accurately, and without surprises. Whether you’re a designer, engineer, or first-time customer—this checklist will help you get it right the first time.
✅ File Types We Accept
We primarily accept:
.DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) – Our preferred file type for most jobs
.AI (Adobe Illustrator) – For signage or decorative work
.PDF or JPEG – For reference only (not suitable for cutting)
Need help converting your file? We can assist with that too.
📋 Laser Cutting File Prep Checklist
Here’s what we need for a clean, cut-ready file:
1. Use Vector Format (Not Raster Images)
Files must be vector-based, meaning they use paths—not pixels. Raster files (like JPEGs or PNGs) can’t be read by our laser.
✅ DO: Use DXF, SVG, AI
❌ DON’T: Send screenshots or photos
2. Ensure All Lines Are Continuous
No broken paths or gaps—your cut lines must be complete and joined.
Use the "Join" or "Weld" function in your CAD or design software if needed.
3. No Duplicate Lines
Overlapping lines confuse the laser and can cause double cuts or burnt edges.
Use your software’s “Find Duplicates” or “Simplify Path” tools.
4. Set Correct Scale
Make sure your file is at actual size (1:1 scale).
We cut exactly what you send—so double-check your dimensions.
5. Convert Text to Outlines/Paths
If you’re using text (like signage), convert fonts to outlines before exporting.
Otherwise, we may not have the same font installed.
6. Include a Material Call-Out
Let us know what material and thickness you want:
Type (e.g., Mild Steel, Stainless, Aluminium)
Thickness (e.g., 3mm, 6mm, etc.)
This helps us nest your job correctly and price it accurately.
7. Indicate Folds, Etching, or Cuts (if needed)
If your design includes multiple processes (e.g. laser cut + fold), indicate this with layers or colour coding and provide a key.
We’re happy to advise on this if you’re unsure!
🧰 Pro Tip: Add a Reference Box
Add a small 100mm x 100mm box to your design to confirm scale when we import it. It’s a simple trick that avoids misinterpretation between software.
💬 Still Not Sure?
If you’re unsure about your file, send it through anyway. We’ll review it and either confirm it’s good to go or suggest changes.
Our team can also help convert your sketch or drawing into a usable file—we do it all the time.
🏁 Why File Prep Matters
Good file prep means:
Faster quotes
Fewer delays
Better results
Less waste and rework
It also helps us keep pricing sharp and turnaround times tight.
📞 Need Help With Your File?
Reach out to Metalmorphic Laser today. Whether you’ve got a CAD-ready DXF or a rough sketch on paper, we’ll help you turn it into precision-cut metal—without the headaches.
Contact us now or upload your file for a fast review.