How We Laser-Engrave Our Wooden Name Badges

Direct answer: every name badge is laser-engraved, not printed — a focused laser beam burns away a thin layer of the wood surface, creating a permanent mark that won't fade, peel or wear off. Here's how the process actually works.

What laser engraving is

Laser engraving uses a focused laser beam to remove a thin layer of material from the surface, creating a permanent recessed mark. Unlike printing, there's no ink or coating sitting on top of the material that can wear away — the mark is part of the material itself.

The materials we engrave

Our name badges are made from FSC-certified oak veneered MDF and FSC-certified Moso bamboo (certificate RINA-COC-001256). Oak veneer gives consistent, high-contrast engraving across a large batch. Bamboo has a tighter internal structure, which gives an especially sharp, clean engraved line — see our oak vs bamboo comparison for the full detail.

From logo to finished badge

You upload your logo and any text using the personalisation options on the product page. We prepare the artwork for engraving — black and white logos reproduce most cleanly — and the laser cuts the design directly into the material. Each badge is inspected before dispatch.

Why engraving outlasts printing

A printed badge fades under light, scratches with handling, and can peel at the edges over time. An engraved badge has nothing to wear off — the design is cut into the surface, so it looks the same after years of daily wear as it did on day one.

Ordering

Upload your logo using the button on the product page. Bulk discounts apply automatically at checkout.

• 20 units — 10%
• 50 units — 15%
• 100 units — 20%
• 250 units — 25%
• 500 units — 30%
• 1,000 units — 35%

All items are made to order. Dispatch time is shown at checkout. UK orders via Royal Mail Tracked 24. International via Royal Mail International Tracked.

Frequently asked questions

Does engraving work with colour logos?
Black and white artwork gives the crispest result. Colour logos can usually be converted — we'll advise if any adjustment is needed.

Will the engraving fade over time?
No — because the mark is cut into the material rather than printed on top, it doesn't fade, peel or wear off with normal use.

Which material engraves most sharply?
Bamboo's tighter internal structure gives an especially clean, sharp line, though oak veneer also engraves with excellent contrast.

See also: our guide to wooden vs plastic name badges, and the full wooden name badges collection.