Questions, answered.

How do I get a quote?

Send us your file (AI, DXF, or PDF) through the quote form, or email americanlaserco@gmail.com. The instant quote is a ballpark estimate — a real person then reviews every file and sets your actual price before we charge anything. We don't do phone quotes.

What file formats do you accept?

AI, DXF, or PDF — vector files only. PDF is usually the safest export. Convert text to outlines before exporting.

Can you help if my file isn't ready?

Yes. Our file fixing service is $40/hr — we clean up customer files. We'll tell you exactly what's needed and the time estimate before billing any work.

What materials can you cut?

Acrylic, plywood, hardwoods (walnut, cherry, maple), Baltic birch, basswood, balsa, leather, paper, cardstock, museum board, oil board, fabric, cork, EVA foam, foam core, mylar, and laser-safe rubber. We do not cut metal — CO₂ lasers can mark or engrave coated metal but not cut through it.

What materials won't you cut?

PVC, polycarbonate, MDF, ABS, Delrin, fiberglass, carbon fiber, polystyrene, HDPE, polypropylene, vinyl. They release toxic fumes or damage the machine.

Can I bring my own material?

Yes, as long as it's laser-safe. If you're unsure about a specific material, email us before bringing it in and we'll confirm.

Is there a project minimum?

Yes — $65 minimum on any cut or engrave job. Below that, setup time exceeds the cut itself.

Do you charge extra for engraving?

No engraving surcharge. If your project includes both cutting and engraving, both are in the quote.

What payment methods do you accept?

Exact cash, check, Zelle, credit card, and Venmo.

How fast is your turnaround?

The instant quote is a ballpark estimate; a real person reviews your file and sets the actual price. Standard production turnaround is 3 to 5 business days, with next-day rush available on most jobs.

Do you offer rush?

Yes. Next-day rush available on most jobs. Surcharge varies by complexity — mention your deadline in the quote form notes and we'll confirm what's possible before you commit.

Pickup at the shop, or do you ship?

Both. Pickup at our DTLA shop (1319 S. Los Angeles St., by appointment Mon–Fri 11–5), or we ship anywhere in the US.

Do you cut metal?

No. CO₂ lasers can mark or engrave coated and anodized metal, but they can't cut through bare metal. For metal cutting, you'll need a fiber laser or waterjet.

Can you engrave on items I bring in?

Yes. Awards, plaques, cutting boards, leather goods, equipment, tools, gifts. Email us first if you're not sure the item is compatible.

What's the maximum material size?

Our largest laser bed accommodates material up to 46 by 58 inches. Secondary bed is 34 by 46 inches. For larger work, we can tile multi-piece designs.

Do I need experience?

No. First-time renters complete a one-time orientation as part of the 2-hour first session. We'll show you how to load files, set power and speed, run the machine, and stay safe.

What software do you use?

LightBurn. If you're new to it, you can learn during your sessions or book a remote LightBurn intro ($120/hr).

Do you take walk-ins?

No. All rental sessions are by appointment. Mon–Fri 11 to 5.

What brands do you service?

Epilog, Boss Laser, Thunder Laser, OMTech, Universal Laser, Trotec, Full Spectrum, Rabbit Laser, Dremel, Orion Motor Tech, Ten-High, Flux, xTool, Aeon, AP Lazer, and most Chinese-import CO₂ cutters. We also service diode lasers and Chinese-import fiber lasers. We do not service Glowforge or name-brand fiber lasers.

How much does a repair cost?

On-site repair in Southern California is $150/hr plus $1/mile travel from our DTLA location. Remote diagnostics via Zoom or phone is $120/hr.

Do you offer remote support?

Yes. Remote diagnostics via Zoom or phone, anywhere in the US. We can walk you through diagnosis and (where the fix is doable without a technician on-site) the repair itself.