Laser Engraved Slate Coasters: The Easiest First Product

Slate coasters are many laser owners’ first saleable product. Slate engraves to a light grey on a dark background with sharp detail, it doesn’t burn, and the result looks premium.

What you need

• Natural slate coasters with a smooth face
• Optional: cork backing or felt pads, mineral oil
• Safety glasses

Steps

1. Clean the slate surface and let it dry.
2. Choose the smooth face. Natural slate varies; pick the flattest side.
3. Make a jig if you are doing a set, so each coaster lands in the same spot.
4. Focus on the surface.
5. Engrave in fill mode. Slate suits line art, text and photos.
6. Wipe off the dust with a damp cloth.
7. Oil lightly with mineral oil to deepen the dark background and boost contrast.
8. Add cork or felt on the back to protect furniture.

Settings

Slate needs moderate-to-high power at moderate speed and a fine line interval. Starting values: xTool D1 Pro slate, Atomstack X20 Pro slate, Sculpfun S9 slate, Longer Ray5 slate.

Photo engraving on slate

• Use high-contrast photos with a clear subject.
• Increase brightness and contrast before engraving.
• Try a dithering mode in your software; slate works well with it.
• Invert the image if needed: the laser makes light marks on a dark surface.

Cork coasters

Cork is a cheaper, softer alternative. It engraves at very low power and chars quickly, so start low. See cork settings.

Selling ideas

• Sets of four with family names or initials
• Wedding favours
• Pet portraits
• Café and bar branding (with permission)