What are the basic steps to engraving add-on embellishments for plaques?

For add-on engraved embellishments on plaques:

1. Mount a wood strip (recommended: 1/8-inch thick alder wood sheet that is 4 inches wide and finished on both sides) to the plaque by applying a thin, double-sided adhesive tape directly to the wood.
2. After applying the tape, remove the brown protective paper and lightly press the wood sheet onto the plaque.
3. With the alder sheet in place, print the logo to the laser for engraving and cutting. The laser power setting should be for thin alder sheet wood. The vector cutting settings should be high enough to cut all the way through the alder sheet and slightly onto the plaque.
4. Immediately after the engraving and cutting is complete, remove the outer section of the alder sheet. Removal of the outer portion of the wood sheet is best accomplished using light and even pressure. The adhesive slowly releases and allows for the outer portion to pull away.

Keep in mind that these double-sided tapes have strong holding power the longer they are held in place. Don’t wait too long before removing the outer area or it will become a permanent part of the plaque.

-Mike Fruciano, Coherent