Laser cut paper applications: artistic and practical

Laser cut paper and engraved paper have become an effective and advanced method of converting paper products. You can find laser cut paper applications in many industries. Especially in the printing and packaging industry, where design and craftsmanship are very important. It is difficult to make a big difference with traditional flat printing. However, the development of laser cutting technology has greatly expanded the design of paper packaging. It helps to achieve low cost and high quality returns. The popularity of laser paper cutting applications relies on the development of laser technology. The most commonly used CNC laser machine is the CO₂ laser cutting machine. It is very good at cutting non-metallic materials such as paper, acrylic, fabric, wood, leather, etc. This article also provides a brief introduction to CO₂ laser cutting machines in the latter part of this article. Come check out this article and find a project that interests you to develop your laser cut paper project.

Can lasers cut paper? The answer is yes!  

 Laser cutting is a relatively new post-press processing technology. And laser cutting is a processing method that uses a high-density laser beam to cut paper products. It can produce hollow or semi-hollow patterns on various types of paper. By focusing the light into a compact beam, the laser cutter can precisely control the cutting of paper, including corrugated board and card stock. Although laser machines are expensive, the laser paper cutting process allows for high volume production and keeps production costs at a reasonable level. Combined with the use of computer design software, the CNC paper cutter allows for complex laser cutting designs. It makes laser-cutting paper easier and more accurate. Unlike traditional paper cutting, laser cutting takes full advantage of the high energy and high density properties of the laser. The laser beam irradiates the paper causing it to vaporize, thus leaving a certain geometry behind. In addition, there is no physical contact during the entire laser cutting and laser engraving paper process. Therefore there is no distortion, damage or burning of the paper.

Why laser cut paper?

Laser paper cutting offers superiority that cannot be matched by ordinary die stamping machines. As a result, more and more paper packaging and process manufacturers are choosing laser cutting methods. There is no direct contact or impact on the paper during the cutting process. So there is no mechanical deformation of the paper. No die or tool wear occurs during the laser engraving process. As a result, laser-cut paper has less waste and a low defect rate. Laser cut paper has high flexibility. Computer software is used to design the layout with high precision and efficiency. In addition, CO₂ laser machines can cut and engrave complex patterns according to customer needs. No tooling is required for cutting paper, and the machine does not need to be adjusted frequently during the cutting process. This saves a lot of time and production costs.

Laser cut paper projects

Laser cut paper has many uses in the market. For example, 3D greeting cards, wedding invitations, packaging boxes, window cutouts, 3D paper sculpture models, paper crafts, and 3D note paper. There are also cake borders, cake inserts, hand-drawn stencils, stickers, etc. Here are some simple laser cut paper projects for your reference. Quickly browse and choose one to start your own.

What types of paper can be laser cut?

Paper is probably the best material for laser applications. Laser cut paper products are both delicate and practical. Although paper is thin and flammable, laser CNC cutters can achieve perfect results with the right settings. In addition, paper materials are readily available, low cost, and vary in color, smoothness, and thickness. CO₂ laser cutters can cut paper types such as

1. White card stock

 White cardboard is wear-resistant and not easily damaged. Its hardness and stiffness are greater than that of coated paper. Therefore, laser cutting cardboard is widely used for printing business cards, documents, calendars, etc.  

2. Copy paper

As the most commonly used paper, it is cheap and easy to buy. So it is very suitable for practicing with copy paper before official cutting. However, copy paper is soft and fragile, and the edge of laser cutting is easily curled.

3. Copperplate paper

It is thicker and more expensive than copy paper, but has less smoothness. It is easy to be painted with various colors. So laser cut coated paper has wide application in advertising, publishing, printing and packaging industries.

4. Carton paper

Its thickness is between that of copy paper and cardboard. This makes it suitable for making laser-cut paper celebration cards and 3D models. Laser cut cardboard products include business cards, invitation cards, postcards, and scrapbooks.

5. Cardboard

Cardboard is ideal for laser cutting. This paper is stiff, does not fold easily and has a high burning point. Laser cut cardboard has flat and smooth cut edges without any burrs.

6. Corrugated cardboard

Corrugated cardboard has a smooth surface, consistent thickness and high stiffness. It is ideal for use as packaging boxes. In addition, there are many laser cut corrugated board toys and molds.