Get a Custom Laser Cutting Quote

Get a Quote

Quote & Visit Policy

Quotes: Accepted via Form or Email only. No phone quotes.
Visits: by appointment.

File Preparation Guidelines

Formats: AI, DXF, or PDF (Vector).
PDF is often the safest export.
Raster Images: JPEG/PNG are for
photo engraving only.
Scale: 1:1 (Real-world dimensions).
Line Weight: Hairline or .001”.
Organization: Map operations by color (Cut vs. Score vs. Engrave)
on a single layer. Remove all hidden objects.

Export Settings (DXF/CAD)

Version: AutoCAD 2023 or earlier.
Units: Millimeters (Switch to mm before exporting).
Text: Convert to Curves/Outlines.
Curves: Export as Splines.
Fills: Unfilled (Wireframe only).
Bitmaps: PNG.

Why Choose American Laser Cutter

• Human-assisted quoting that catches issues early
• Practical nesting guidance to reduce waste
• Prototype to short-run production with one partner
• Use American Laser Cutter's stock or bring your own laser-safe materials

Questions? Call (213) 866-4738 or email americanlaserco@gmail.com

Outline of a sheet of stickers with designs including skulls, flames, a keyhole, and abstract shapes in blue, green, red, and purple lines.

What we stock

Three rectangular objects in clear, white, and black colors, labeled as 'Clear', 'White', and 'Black' respectively, placed against a neutral background.

Clear, black, white acrylic in 1/8” and 1/4”

Plywood in 1/8” and 1/4”

Precision Materials: What American Laser Cutter Can Cut

At the core of American Laser Cutter’s operations is a fleet of industrial-grade 100W CO₂ laser systems capable of handling large-format sheets up to 48” x 60”. The versatility of these machines allows for an incredibly wide range of organic and synthetic materials to be processed with extreme accuracy, often within a tolerance of plus or minus 0.002 inches.

Acrylics and Plastics

Acrylic is arguably the most popular material for laser fabrication due to its "flame-polished" edge—a clean, glass-like finish that occurs naturally during the cutting process. American Laser Cutter works with both cast and extruded acrylics in clear, frosted, mirrored, and a massive spectrum of colors. Beyond standard acrylic, they process laser-safe plastics like Delrin and Mylar, which are essential for engineering components, stencils, and industrial spacers. It is important to note that they strictly avoid PVC and other "toxic" plastics to ensure both machine longevity and environmental safety.

Wood and Wood-Based Products

For those in construction, architecture, or furniture design, the shop offers extensive wood-cutting capabilities. This includes hardwoods like walnut and cherry, as well as versatile plywoods like Baltic Birch. They are particularly adept at processing engineered woods such as MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), which provides a perfectly flat, consistent surface for paint and finishing. For more delicate work, they handle basswood and balsa wood, often utilized by hobbyists and model builders for their lightweight properties and ease of assembly.

Paper, Cardboard, and Packaging Materials

Precision is nowhere more evident than in their work with paper products. From heavy-duty corrugated cardboard and chipboard used in structural packaging to fine cardstock and paperboard for high-end stationary, the laser allows for intricate "lace-like" cuts that traditional die-cutting simply cannot achieve. This also includes surface scoring, which creates perfect fold lines without cutting through the material entirely.

Leathers, Textiles, and Specialized Media

The shop frequently processes natural leather for the fashion and accessory industries. Because the laser vaporizes the material, it leaves a sealed edge that prevents fraying—a major advantage over physical blades. Similarly, they can cut various textiles and fabrics for garment components. Other specialized materials include laser-safe rubber for custom branding stamps and linoleum for artistic printmaking. While their CO₂ lasers do not cut through metal, they can provide high-resolution surface marking on certain treated or coated metal surfaces.

Industry Partnerships: Who They Work With

American Laser Cutter serves as a critical bridge between digital design and physical production for a diverse array of professional sectors. Their "no minimum" policy makes them a favorite for local Los Angeles creatives, while their industrial capacity allows them to scale for major corporate entities.

Architecture and Urban Planning

Los Angeles is a global hub for architecture, and American Laser Cutter is a primary resource for firms building complex physical models. Architects utilize the shop to cut precise site studies, topographical maps, and structural components. By using laser-cut wood or acrylic, firms can represent complex geometries and "massing" models with a level of detail that traditional hand-cutting cannot match.

Entertainment and Marketing Agencies

Working with giants like Disney, Warner Brothers, and Red Bull, the shop is deeply embedded in the entertainment capital of the world. For these clients, the focus is often on high-impact branding. This includes custom event signage, promotional displays, and intricate retail fixtures. Whether it is a specialized prop for a film set or a branded "influencer box" for a product launch, the ability to rapidly iterate on designs is invaluable.

Product Design and Engineering

For startups and industrial designers, American Laser Cutter is a prototyping powerhouse. Before committing to expensive injection molding, engineers use the shop to create "fit-checks" and functional enclosures. This allows for rapid testing of tolerances, button placements, and internal layouts. The shop’s expertise in technical materials like Delrin makes it a go-to for creating jigs, fixtures, and mechanical parts that require durability and precision.

Fashion, Jewelry, and Fine Arts

The creative community in Downtown LA utilizes the shop for everything from leather garment cutouts to intricate acrylic jewelry. Fine artists often use the laser to create layered installations or to engrave highly detailed graphics onto wood panels. The shop also supports the "maker" economy, helping independent designers create short-run products for boutique retail or online stores.

Academic and Research Institutions

With proximity to USC, UCLA, Otis, and CalArts, American Laser Cutter is a vital resource for the next generation of designers. Students frequently use the shop’s "DIY Laser Rental" program to gain hands-on experience while completing thesis projects or engineering competitions. By providing access to professional-grade hardware, the shop helps bridge the gap between academic theory and industrial reality.

Laser Cutting Service Areas – Greater Los Angeles

American Laser Cutter is based in Downtown Los Angeles at 1319 S. Los Angeles St. We provide laser cutting, engraving, machine rental, and repair services to clients across the greater LA area. No account setup needed — just upload your files or bring your materials and we’ll get to work.

Cities & Communities We Serve

We regularly serve clients from all of the following areas. Most orders are handled remotely — just send your files to get started. Local pickup and drop-off available at our Downtown LA studio.

Not sure if we serve your area? Call or email us — if you can ship materials or files, we can almost certainly help. Phone: 213-866-4738 | Email: americanlaserco@gmail.com