File prep

How to prepare a DXF for laser cutting

A clean file gives you an accurate instant price and a part that cuts right the first time.

Before you upload

  • Flat and 2D. One part per file, drawn in the XY plane at 1:1 scale.
  • Set your units. Save the DXF in inches or millimeters. If the units are missing, you can choose them in the quote tool.
  • Closed shapes. Outer profiles and holes should be closed contours with no gaps.
  • No duplicates. Remove overlapping or duplicate lines, which add false cut length.
  • Cut geometry only. Delete dimensions, notes, borders and title blocks, or put them on a separate layer and remove them before export.
  • Text. Convert text to outlines or curves before exporting.

Design rules of thumb

FeatureRecommendation
Hole diameterAt least equal to material thickness
Space between featuresAt least 1x material thickness
Inside cornersAdd a small radius to reduce stress and improve edge quality
Maximum part sizeOur table is 60 × 120 in. Usable cutting dimensions and edge clearances are confirmed by the shop.

What if I only have a DWG, PDF or sketch?

Export or save as DXF from your CAD software. If you only have a sketch or photo, send it to us and we will quote it by hand.