QR Code Laser Engraving: A Complete Guide

Vendors, exhibitors, and small business owners alike understand the need for long-lasting QR codes to promote their enterprise. Laser-engraving QR codes on durable materials like wood, acrylic, and metal adds a unique, sophisticated air to your business. Plus, they’ll last longer than printed codes on paper. If you plan on displaying links to your online store, custom services, or more, laser-engraved QR codes offer a clean, scannable, and permanent solution.  

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to create laser-engraved QR codes from start to finish. We’ll cover how to generate and format a proper QR code file, tips for designing and sizing it correctly, and how to choose the best materials for your application. You’ll also learn the key laser settings for different surfaces like wood, acrylic, leather, and metal, and best practices for testing, engraving, and ensuring your QR codes scan reliably.

Step 1: Generate a Clean, Vector-Based QR Code

To begin, use a trusted QR code generator to create your code. Most free online tools will let you input a URL, text, contact info, or other data and then export the QR as an SVG (Scalable Vector Graphic) file. Always choose a vector format like SVG to preserve sharp lines and scalability—raster formats like PNG or JPG may pixelate and cause scan issues.

Before moving on, double-check that the code works using multiple devices or apps. It’s much easier to fix a bad file now than after engraving.

Step 2: Prepare and Import Your QR Design

Once you have your SVG, import it into your laser software—LightBurn or EZCAD are both excellent choices. Make sure the QR code is appropriately sized. Generally, each individual square (or “module”) in the code should be at least 0.5 mm wide for clean scanning. The overall size should fit your material, with enough margin (called a “quiet zone”) around the edges to help scanners detect it properly.

Convert strokes to filled shapes, and confirm all elements are vectors. This helps the laser fill in the entire code rather than simply outlining boxes.

Step 3: Choose Your Engraving Material

QR codes can be engraved on a wide variety of materials. Your material choice depends on where and how the code will be used, as well as which type of laser you have.

Wood is excellent for earthy, tactile finishes and works best when light-colored and sanded smooth. Acrylic, especially black or white cast acrylic, offers high contrast and clean lines. Leather engraves with a dark burn and works best on lighter or vegetable-tanned surfaces. For durability, metal is ideal—fiber lasers can engrave stainless steel, anodized aluminum, brass, and even titanium with permanent, professional results.

If you're using a CO₂ or diode laser, focus on organic materials like wood and leather. Fiber lasers are your go-to for bare or coated metals.

Step 4: Clean and Secure the Material

Before engraving, wipe the surface with isopropyl alcohol to remove oils or debris. This helps with both engraving clarity and adhesion if you plan to apply a sealant later.

Place the material in your laser bed, securing it with magnets, jigs, or brackets—especially if you're doing multiple pieces. Keeping the material flat and steady is critical for engraving sharp, accurate squares.

Step 5: Set Laser Parameters for Best Results

The right settings will vary based on your laser type, wattage, and material. Here's a basic starting point for a 30W laser:

• For wood: 40-60% power, 200–500 mm/s speed
  

• For acrylic: 10–20% power, 200–400 mm/s speed
  

• For leather: 40–70% power, 200–400 mm/s speed
  

• For anodized aluminum or coated metals: 30–45% power, 1000–2000 mm/s speed

These settings assume a line spacing (or interval) of about 0.05 mm. Always test on a scrap piece first. The goal is to create solid black squares with clean edges that scan easily.

Step 6: Focus and Align the Laser

Proper focus is critical. Use your machine’s autofocus feature if available, or manually adjust until the beam is perfectly aligned with the surface. Any tilt or defocus can distort the edges of the QR code, reducing its scan reliability.

Step 7: Run the Engraving Job

Once everything is aligned and tested, go ahead and engrave your QR code. Most engravings take under a minute. Keep an eye on the job to ensure there’s no movement, debris buildup, or burning that could affect detail.

Step 8: Clean and Test Your QR Code

After engraving, clean the surface again to remove soot or residue. For wood and leather, a soft cloth or brush will do. For metal, wipe with alcohol and polish if needed. Test the code with a smartphone or QR scanner app from different angles and distances.

If it doesn’t scan, revisit your module size, contrast, or focus. It’s often a small tweak that makes a big difference.

Creative Applications for Engraved QR Codes

Laser-engraved QR codes can be used in dozens of creative and commercial ways. They’re great for adding value to handmade items, linking product packaging to how-to videos, or giving guests at events quick access to digital content.

You can engrave them on business cards, wooden keychains, signage, tags, coasters, awards, or even pet ID tags. QR codes can carry URLs, contact information, menus, Wi-Fi logins, and more—making them versatile tools for both marketing and personalization.

Final Thoughts

QR code laser engraving combines modern functionality with hands-on creativity. When done right, it adds lasting value to everything from packaging to gifts to signage. With a clean vector file, the right materials, dialed-in settings, and a high-quality OMTech laser engraver, your engraved codes will look sharp and scan reliably for years to come.