I have an Aura. Can I engrave or cut a fingerprint into metal pendant?

[jmidkiff]

Can I cut a fingerprint into a metal pendant?

[Xabbess]

Welcome to the community. Sorry to say you cannot cut or engrave metal with any of the Glowforge lasers…even the large ones. They just don’t have enough power.You can however use a marking medium like Cermark or Laser Bond, which will leave a black marking on the metal. Try doing a search about this and you will find many posts. Best of luck!

[evansd2]

@xabbess is giving great advice.

For more: check out #11 for a roundup of info about working with metals in your Glowforge:

Common problems/questions

Hello! You’ve been referred to this post because you have a common problem or question. Check out the list below to see what this post can do for you. Just click on a topic that interests you. • 1: I’m new to Glowforge and really have no idea where to start • 1a: What other tools/materials should I buy to go with my Glowforge? • 1b: What are the overall best practices for my laser designs? • 2: All about masking/protecting your materials • 3: I want to design/make a box • 4: What materi…

[deirdrebeth]

Welcome to the community!

In case you’re a more visual person.

This, yes, with a marking material as @Xabbess mentioned:

This, no, with any (or equivalent powered laser). You need a fibre laser or a really high powered CO2 to cut/engrave into metal:

[Purplie]

I haven’t tried this product myself, but there are metallic-looking acrylic sheets, if it’s only the look you care about:

https://www.amazon.com/TroLase-Premier-Engraving-Interior-Guillotine/dp/B0B7NWHLPM/?th=1

[eflyguy]

Another option would be to buy anodized pendants. That’s how I make dog tags and other metal-based items.

I do have the original glow forge pro, however – I can’t be certain you could achieve the same affect with an aura.