Which materials are not safe to cut with a laser?

While some materials are better suited for laser engraving and cutting—with the exception of PVC (polyvinyl chloride)—most substrates are safe to use in the laser. PVC, when laser cut or engraved, can release a corrosive gas inside the laser system, which is not only detrimental to the laser system itself but can be exceptionally harmful to the laser operator as well.

There are, however, more and more retailers who offer laser-friendly PVC-free “vinyl-like” materials, such as heat transfer material, which can be used to customize T-shirts, jerseys, and other apparel.