Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Our Mission—The Intentional Gift
What is the philosophy of Sculpted Light Studio?
Our philosophy is The Intentional Gift: Stop giving stuff. Start giving meaning. We specialize in transforming heartfelt sentiments, stories, and personal meaning into permanent, personalized treasures. Every item we create is a custom piece designed to celebrate human connections, milestones, and personal legacies, ensuring your gift provides lasting value and significance.
How is an "Intentional Gift" different from a regular engraved product?
A regular engraved product is a transaction. An Intentional Gift, created by Sculpted Light Studio, is a collaborative process. We focus on the story and purpose behind the item. We guide you through the customization process to ensure the final piece not only looks beautiful but is permanently infused with the specific memory, date, or sentiment that gives it meaning.
Custom Orders & The Creation Process
How do I start a custom project and get a quote?
Getting started is simple. To receive an accurate quote, we primarily need two things:
The Story: A brief description of the intended sentiment, text, or image.
The Vision: Details about the item or material you wish to have engraved.
Once we receive this, we can provide an estimate based on the material, design complexity, and time required on our state-of-the-art laser system.
Can Sculpted Light Studio help me with the design?
Absolutely. We offer design services ranging from simple text placement to complex graphic preparation. If you have a sketch, an image, or just a concept, we can work with you to create a clean, high-resolution, production-ready design that perfectly reflects your vision.
What are your typical turnaround times?
As every piece is a custom, Intentional Gift, our turnaround time is based on the complexity of the design and our current production queue. Generally, custom orders are completed within 5-10 business days once the design is finalized and approved. We will provide an estimated completion date with your quote.
What kind of file formats do you prefer for custom artwork?
We prefer vector files whenever possible, as they ensure the cleanest, sharpest lines for both cutting and engraving.
Preferred formats: .CDR (CorelDRAW), .AI (Adobe Illustrator),.SVG, or high-resolution PDF.
For images/photos (raster): High-resolution (.JPG, .PNG, or .TIF) files at 300 dpi or higher. Black and white artwork is ideal for engraving.
As a reference, we use CorelDRAW 2025 for all production setups.
Our Capabilities, Constraints, and Technology
What are the maximum dimensions you can engrave or cut?
Our primary production tool, the Epilog Fusion Pro 24 laser, has a maximum working area (bed size) of 24 inches by 24 inches (24" x 24"). This constraint applies to any single piece of material or object you wish to have fully engraved or cut. For larger designs, we can often split the work into multiple panels or pieces, but the individual component size must fit within this 24x24 maximum.
What is the difference between laser marking, engraving, and cutting?
We use our versatile Dual CO2/Fiber Laser system to achieve all three:
What does the engraving or marking look like on different materials?
The visual and tactile outcome is dependent on the material and the laser used (CO2 or Fiber):
Wood, Leather, Cork: Engraving typically creates a tactile recess and a rich, high-contrast mark, often ranging from dark brown to black.
Glass & Stone: Engraving results in a permanent, high-quality frosted or "etched" look, providing a bright, clean appearance with minimal depth.
Anodized/Coated Metals (CO2): The laser removes the color coating, exposing the bright, bare metal (usually silver) underneath, creating a sharp, high-contrast design.
- Bare Metals (Fiber): Fiber laser marking creates a permanent, high-contrast black mark (through annealing/oxidation) on materials like stainless steel and titanium, which resists abrasion and corrosion.
What materials can you work with?
We can engrave, mark, and cut a vast array of materials, utilizing the power of both our CO2 and Fiber lasers:
CO2 Laser (Engraving/Cutting): Wood, Acrylic, Leather, Fabric, Anodized Aluminum, Glass, Stone, Rubber, Cork, Cardboard, Coated Metals.
- Fiber Laser (Engraving/Marking): Bare metals (such as stainless steel, titanium, and brass). We use the power of the fiber laser to create deep, tactile engravings or a permanent, high-contrast black mark (through annealing/oxidation) that is resistant to abrasion.
Can I supply my own material or product?
Yes, you may supply your own material. However, for safety and quality assurance, we require you to provide a brief description of the material beforehand. Certain materials (such as PVC/Vinyl or certain plastics) are strictly prohibited because they release corrosive and toxic fumes that are dangerous to our staff and equipment. We will verify the material's compatibility before accepting the project.
Shipping, Returns, and Customer Care
What is your policy on returns and refunds for custom products?
Due to the permanent, personalized nature of our Intentional Gifts, all sales are final. We do not accept returns or exchanges once the design is approved and production has begun.
What if my item arrives damaged or incorrect?
We guarantee our craftsmanship. If your order arrives damaged or if there is a mistake with the engraving on our part, please contact us within 7 days of delivery. We will work with you to find a solution, which may include a replacement or a repair.
Where do you ship orders?
We currently offer shipping to U.S. addresses only.
How long does it take for an order to ship?
Once the design is finalized, please allow 3-5 business days for your order to be prepared, engraved, and packaged for shipment. It is then shipped immediately via USPS.
Where can I find more detailed information about your policies?
For comprehensive details on all our shipping, return, and operational policies, please visit our dedicated page: Sculpted Light Studio Shipping & Return Policy.