How to Engrave Stainless Steel with 2W IR Laser DIY

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How to Engrave Stainless Steel with xTool 2W Infrared (IR) Laser DIY

Turn a love letter signature into a heirloom keepsake!

Learn how to engrave stainless steel pendants with the xTool S1 2W infrared laser.

Think of all the handmade and personalized gifts you can make with this amazing technique!

These are gorgeously engraved permanent marks and will not wipe off...turn your handwriting into a treasure.

Here's the step-by-step guide!

xTool Machines:

affiliate links:

xTool S1 2W IR Laser Head
xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and Diode Laser
xTool M1 Ultra (4-in-One Craft Machine)
CO2 Laser xTool P2 Machine
xTool F1 Portable Laser Cutter
xTool S1 20W or 40W ( I have the 20W--see this post)
xTool M1 10W Deluxe RA2 Pro (this is the one I have--see this post) xTool RA is the Rotary Attachment for doing tumblers, cups, etc.

xTool laser machines come in 4 different laser beam options: Diode laser machines, xTool P CO2 lasers, IR Laser Module and their newest Fiber Laser. Some of the machines, like the xTool S 1 have an interchangeable laser head so you can swap them out for different surfaces.

In the future you can add to your purchase with a honeycomb panel riser base, air assist set, fire detection (comes with newer models), xTool fire safety set, automatic conveyor feeder, xTool desktop smoke purifier or air purifier if you can't vent right out a window.

Where to Get Stainless Steel Jewelry Pieces to Engrave:

Stainless Steel Bar Pendants (30 pcs)
Stainless Steel Bar Necklaces (6 pcs)
Stainless Steel Vertical Bar Necklace (6 pcs)
Round Stainless Steel Dog Tag (10 pcs)
Stainless Steel Round Pendants (30 pcs)

I absolutely recommend getting your metal surfaces and stainless steel laser engraving supplies right from xTool because they will work perfectly.

What types of metals will engrave??? I've only done stainless steel but it works on anodized coating too. Do not use "stamping blanks"...make sure they are Laser Engraving blanks.

Of course doing a test run or test grid is recommended and a great way to make sure you are getting the best results for metal engraving.

xTool Machines: affiliate links: xTool S1 2W IR Laser Head xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and Diode Laser xTool M1 Ultra (4-in-One Craft Machine) CO2 Laser xTool P2 Machine xTool F1 Portable Laser Cutter xTool S1 20W or 40W ( I have the 20W--see this post) xTool M1 10W Deluxe RA2 Pro (this is the one I have--see this post) xTool RA is the Rotary Attachment for doing tumblers, cups, etc. xTool laser machines come in 4 different laser beam options: Diode laser machines, xTool P CO2 lasers, IR Laser Module and their newest Fiber Laser. Some of the machines, like the xTool S 1 have an interchangeable laser head so you can swap them out for different surfaces. In the future you can add to your purchase with a honeycomb panel riser base, air assist set, fire detection (comes with newer models), xTool fire safety set, automatic conveyor feeder, xTool desktop smoke purifier or air purifier if you can't vent right out a window.

Step 1: Install the 2W Infrared Laser

Begin by removing the diode laser engraver and install the 2W IR laser head. Here's my youtube video for easy tutorial on switching out the laser head modules.

Now for the surface of the stainless steel pendant.

I did not use any black markings paint or metal marking spray to prep the metal.

The laser etching can do intricate designs on the stainless steel surface in just a few minutes.

Place the pendant on the honeycomb and magnet clamp it in place. Use the xTool Creative Space software to select the engravable area and place the desired image on that area.

Then select the power and speed, I used the settings that xTool recommends and it worked great.

Laser settings 100 Power, 5 Speed, 1 Pass

Changing the engraving parameters just slightly, with different speeds and high power down to low power can change the engraving to various colors, so there are lots of comprehensive guides on the best ways to do this. Look up a test grid for stainless steel dog tags and you'll be impressed!

Step 1: Install the 2W Infrared Laser Begin by removing the diode laser engraver and install the 2W IR laser head. Here's my youtube video for easy tutorial on switching out the laser head modules.

Step 2: Laser Engrave Stainless Steel

I made these two necklaces for my bestie and her twin. The handwriting is their mom's signature, who passed away years ago.

I used photoshop to remove the background and darken the writing.

Then import right into xTool Creative Space and it's automatically recognizes it for engraving and allows you to sharpen it and edit it right in the XCS.

I did a silver necklace first and then did a rose gold necklace. Once the image is aligned with the workable shape and press the start button.

Step 2: Laser Engrave Stainless Steel I made these two necklaces for my bestie and her twin. The handwriting is their mom's signature, who passed away years ago.

The infrared laser works great on the surface of stainless steel.

You can also use a blue laser or a fiber laser engraver.

If working with a blue diode laser, engraving on stainless steel can work great too--but it may need marking spray and can be cleaned off the surface of the metal with isopropyl alcohol.

The deep markings leave dust around them that can be gently wiped off.

The infrared laser works great on the surface of stainless steel. You can also use a blue laser or a fiber laser engraver. If working with a blue diode laser, engraving on stainless steel can work great too--but it may need marking spray and can be cleaned off the surface of the metal with isopropyl alcohol. The deep markings leave dust around them that can be gently wiped off.

Using the 2W IR Laser module is awesome!

For a small business, this is the best laser engraver to use for a wide range of applications.

Great for various objects; stainless-steel tumbler, jewelry and more.

Stainless steel engraving is high quality for small projects and those fine details on the finished product.

Using the 2W IR Laser module is awesome! For a small business, this is the best laser engraver to use for a wide range of applications. Great for various objects; stainless-steel tumbler, jewelry and more. Stainless steel engraving is high quality for small projects and those fine details on the finished product.

Look how gorgeous the laser marking turned out!

This is the main reason I wanted the 2W Infrared Laser Head Module.

I love that I can take handwritten, delicate, intricate images and engrave them onto metal materials.

The right equipment is such an ideal choice to take your home business or side hustle one step above the competition by engraving metals.

Look how gorgeous the laser marking turned out! This is the main reason I wanted the 2W Infrared Laser Head Module. I love that I can take handwritten, delicate, intricate images and engrave them onto metal materials. The right equipment is such an ideal choice to take your home business or side hustle one step above the competition by engraving metals.

The final piece is fabulous!

I love that they have corrosion resistance with the stainless steel.

The efficiency of the engraving process is awesome!

I made 2 identical necklaces in less than a half hour.

Super simple steps and a gorgeous finished piece.

The final piece is fabulous! I love that they have corrosion resistance with the stainless steel. The efficiency of the engraving process is awesome! I made 2 identical necklaces in less than a half hour. Super simple steps and a gorgeous finished piece.

These are high quality and I loved giving them to my friend and her twin for their birthday!

It's such a great way to make a memory keepsake with handwriting from a loved one.

Other great engraving ideas:

Finger Print
Heart Beat
Birthday
Signature
Love Notes
Simple Child Art
Kids names
Wedding date

These are high quality and I loved giving them to my friend and her twin for their birthday! It's such a great way to make a memory keepsake with handwriting from a loved one. Other great engraving ideas: Finger Print Heart Beat Birthday Signature Love Notes Simple Child Art Kids names Wedding date

That's it!

Get a 2W Infrared Laser Module Head and swap out your blue diode laser from your xTool S1 and get a head start on holiday handmade gifts!

Engraving stainless steel jewelry, tumblers and keychains is a game changer!

Like, Pin and Save!

That's it! Get a 2W Infrared Laser Module Head and swap out your blue diode laser from your xTool S1 and get a head start on holiday handmade gifts! Engraving stainless steel jewelry, tumblers and keychains is a game changer! Like, Pin and Save!

Here's Many More Laser Cut Craft Projects Ideas--for any skill level!

How to Laser Engrave Journals DIY with xTool S1

Learn how easy it is to make a laser engraved journal or notebook with xTool laser cutting machine.

Every time I do a laser cutting project it becomes my absolute favorite--and this is no exception, I totally love these faux leather engraved journals!

Engraving on journals is so fast, just minutes, and makes a gorgeous handmade gift, branded business merchandise or custom swag.

Supplies Needed for Laser Engrave Journals: affiliate links: OtterBlotter Hardcover Lined Journal Notebook xTool S1 diode laser (or other laser engraving machine) xTool Creative Space Image to engrave

Happiness Calligraphy Sign

Hand written laser cut outs are my favorite thing!

Nothing is quite as awesome as seeing your own artwork, hand lettering, family name or your artistic touch come to life.

Using an iPad is an easy way of saving off artwork in a useable file, like svg files, and sliding it directly into xTool Creative Space (XCS).

How to Laser Cut Calligraphy Wood Sign with xTool M1 Make the perfect wood sign or holiday decor with your own calligraphy or hand lettering! Watch how easy it is to transform your own lettering into a wood cutout using the xTool M1 laser cutter.

Make a layered Snow Globe Scene

Layered laser cut wood is the trending laser cut craft of choice.

Adding multiple layers of delicately lasered basswood makes all those precise designs stand out.

You can take the time to paint the layers or put kits together for a great product for consumers to paint and assemble!

How to Make a Layered Scene with xTool Learn how to make a layered scene using a laser cutting machine. I am having so much fun using my new xTool laser cutter. It's easy to set up and can cut all sorts of materials. Today I'm sharing these cute little snowglobe/window/layered scenes and how simple they are to create.

Laser Cut Comic Cake Topper!

A custom cake topper made from wood that fits the theme of the party is a great addition for special occasions.

This simple cake topper with its colorful designs was the crowing piece for this cartoon cake.

Give your wedding cake a special and unique look by making the topper yourself using xTool and basswood!

With the xTool's ultra-fast laser engraving speed, you'll quickly be in mass production status with these best sellers!

Make a Yipee Cake Topper for a Cartoon Cake! Cartoon cakes are totally on trend and this comic book style cake topper is the perfect way to say Yipee! Learn how simple it is to laser cut wood using the xTool M1. It's the perfect household laser cutter for crafters.

Laser Cut Heart Earrings

Earrings, earrings and more earrings!

Earrings are the BEST laser cut craft and fashion accessories to use up all those scraps of basswood from other projects.

They are the perfect size, but they boast delicate and intricate laser cut designs--so lightweight and gorgeous to wear!

Make dangles, studs, everyday wear and holiday specials!

If you are running a laser business, earrings are a great item--one of the BEST sale items!

Step 5: Jewelry Hardware Finish off the earrings with some jewelry pliers and earring hardware. Paint or other finish on the wood is totally optional, but I am so natural when it comes to wood. I love it!

Laser Engraved Bookmarks

Laser engraved bookmarks are an awesome project to start with to learn engraving and outlining.

Laser engravers are a big component of a laser machine, it's awesome to engrave images, detailed images like photographs and more.

The 3mm basswood might be a little heavy duty for a bookmark, but they are beautiful display pieces for a bookshelf, gift tag or just laser cutting practice.

Make an Engraved Bookmark with xTool! Learn how easy it is to make an engraved wood bookmark with the xTool M1 laser cutting machine. This fun engraved bookmark would make a great handmade gift, decoration piece or used as a gift tag!

Miniature Acoustic Guitar Studio!

This miniature guitar is arguably one of my favorite laser cut crafts made with my laser cutter--look at its compact size--it's so cute.

The 3 layers of basswood make it look to scale sitting on a stand by these little clay plants in pots--like a little tiny living space!

I absolutely love it!

The guitar and stand laser cutter projects starts as the engraving machine does all the engraving, then it switches to the cutting beam for the perfect print.

How to Make a Miniature Acoustic Guitar Studio! This miniature guitar studio is one of my most favorite projects to date. I love how this tiny little acoustic guitar turned out. I love that mini hairpin leg stool. I mostly love these little clay potted plants! 😉 😂

Personalized Wood Tags

These wood tags are easy to make and are a great project for beginners.

These laser cut and engraved wood tags can be used for Stocking tags, luggage tags, Easter Basket name tags, keychains and much more!

Custom projects and special orders are a big ticket item--just make sure your customers know that custom/personalization are non-returnable items!

Personalized Wood Tags Made with xTool Laser Cutter! These little personalize wood tags made with xTool laser cutter are perfect for Easter baskets, handmade gifts, luggage, backpacks and more! I love my new laser cutting machine! It's the perfect tool for a crafter and can cut all kinds of materials. So far, I'm in love with cutting and engraving wood.

Guitar Pick Holder

This miniature guitar is a little larger than the one above, but it's a little box.

This cute guitar has 3 layers, revealing a place to store 3 guitar picks inside!

This guitar pick holder is a great gift idea for Father's day, birthdays or holiday gifts.

How to Make a Guitar Pick Holder with xTool Make an acoustic guitar pick holder in under an hour with the xTool M1 Laser Cutting Machine. I love my xTool and use it regularly. It's super versatile, easy to set up and use, and I'm always thrilled and amazed by what I create. This guitar guitar pick holder is a great handmade gift for Father's Day!

Hello Spring Sign

Welcome Spring with the perfect sign!

This darling sign is mostly sourced from amazing products bought at the dollar store with a little laser cut hello on the front.

This could be adapted to any word, or even a phrase like "hello Spring" or "welcome baby".

How to Make a Hello Spring Hanging Sign! Let me show you how easy and inexpensive it is to make this cute Spring Hello sign! This fun craft was put together using 3 items from the dollar store. I love budget friendly crafts that are bright and cheerful--and fast--under 30 minutes for this hanging sign! This cute sign cost me less than $5 to make!

Laser Cut Ornate Frame

This laser cut ornate frame is 6 layers of gorgeous intricate cuts!

This frame was actually cut without air assist--back before I had it.

I love how it turned out--I got this file in a super cheap bundle, and I'm so happy about it. It came with about 10 other designs and I need to make them all.

It even has a display stand that notches in to the back of the layered frame!

I am such a lover of natural wood finish, so no paint is necessary for me.

What do you think? Would you paint it? It would look stunning in gold!

How to Make a Laser Cut Ornate Frame! I just want to make beautiful things, even if nobody cares! Learn how easy it is to make a beautiful ornate frame with the xTool M1 Laser Cutting Machine. I have been loving my xTool M1 laser cutting machine that was gifted to me. It's opened up a whole new world of crafting to me. I love it! Read more about it here: xTool M1 10W Deluxe RA2 Pro

Acrylic Monstera Leaf Earrings

Cut acrylic with a diode laser and make earrings!

Diode lasers can cut cast acrylic in specific colors...not clear, white or blues.

Black acrylic cuts best--so smooth and dreamy!

How to Make Acrylic Earrings with xTool! Learn how to cut cast acrylic sheets with the xTool M1 Laser Cutting Machine. I love the versatility of the xTool M1, perfect for a craft, hobbyist and even a small business! I had to test my xTool with acrylic with a small pair of monstera leaf earrings--earrings are ALWAYS the first craft I make with a new machine! Check out these wood earrings.

Disco Ball Plant Pick

This is the perfect little laser cut "I will survive" disco ball plant stake! (my husband thought it was the death star...lol)

I need to make more plant adornments for all my other plants now too!

It's easy to engrave and cut with the xTool.

The software is smart, it does all the outlining, then engraving and finishes off with the cutting, so the print turns out perfectly every time!

This specific item ends up soaking up the moisture in the planter and does not last forever.

This is a monstera deliciosa that I got from Verdant Lyfe. Get 10% off with code: DOODLECRAFT It just got its first split leaf and transplanted to a bigger pot--it's doing so well! They ship from Florida. My plants arrived in beautiful condition and were really pretty. I was worried they would be picked over or have obvious flaws...but they didn't. Every plant I got from Verdant Lyfe looks amazing. When I was little we had a giant monstera plant...for some reason I think it was my dads. I saw the split leaves and was just sure my mom cut them herself, because she was a crafter! 🤣 🤣 🤣 I am super new to houseplants. I decided now that my baby is 14 and does not need me interfering in his life all the time, I needed to start a new hobby, or ten. In the last few months I've started several new things. Plant motherhood Feeding stray cats, mostly a little kitten that found his way here in a thunderstorm and hasn't left since. Stained Glass Sun Catchers Miniatures Polymer Clay These plants really bring an element of life into my home though. I love them! I feel happier just seeing them. If you are in need of a new hobby, that brings joy, maybe a plant is right for you!?

Wood Burned Engraved Florals:

First, let's talk about the FolkArt Watercolor Gelz.

They are awesome acrylic paints in more of a gel consistency than other acrylic craft paint--works almost like a wood stain--I love being able to see the wood grains under the colors.

You don't have to water them down, but I like to add water and paint just like watercolors.

They come in a huge array of beautiful and vivid colors--I'm using 14 different colors in the one engraved wood plaque.

They are perfect to use in connection with the xTool M1 Laser Cutting Machine.

This image was a single file I bought on etsy and then repeated over and over to make a stunning bouquet of flowers to be engraved in the plywood.

First, let's talk about the FolkArt Watercolor Gelz. They are awesome. They are acrylic paints in more of a gel consistency than other acrylic craft paint. You don't have to water them down, but I like to add water and paint just like watercolors. They come in a huge array of beautiful and vivid colors--I'm using 14 different colors in the one engraved wood plaque. They are perfect to use in connection with the xTool M1 Laser Cutting Machine.

Sunset Mountain Mandala

This mountain sunset mandala art is the perfect Summer craft!

It's got all the late night/camping/sunset in the mountains vibes--it's layered on a piece of pallet signage and then the delicately laser cut mandala is glued on top. I love the vibrant colors peeking through!

I'm a beach girl in my mind, but my budget and location make me a mountain girl.

Learn How to Make a Mountain Sunset Mandala Wood Pallet!

How to Make a Mountain Sunset Mandala This mountain sunset mandala art is the perfect Summer craft! It's got all the late night/camping/sunset in the mountains vibes. I'm a beach girl in my mind, but my budget and location make me a mountain girl. Let's make this gorgeous wall art piece in just a few minutes! Learn How to Make a Mountain Sunset Mandala Wood Pallet!

Hand Lettered Cake Topper

Another fabulous laser cut cake topper made with xTool--customization is going to be your number one best seller!

This cake topper is to celebrate Diwali, but it could be made to celebrate anything!

A little paint and a little glitter make this cake topper the perfect bling for the cake!

3D Butterfly Place Settings

Make 3D butterfly place settings with basswood and xTool.

This cut easily and beautifully--the file is a freebie on Designbundles.net and is made for 3mm wood or acrylic, so it just fits together perfectly after its cut.

Test them out of cardboard first and you will instantly fall in love and want to cut them out of every material--I've done cardboard, basswood and acrylic!