Looking for a fresh way to grow your screen printing business? Custom charcuterie boards are a hit! These personalized, laser-engraved boards are perfect for weddings, corporate gifts, or retail products. Using the xTool P2 laser engraver, you can add detailed logos, text, or images, giving customers something unique and memorable. Let’s dive into how you can start creating and selling these stunning pieces today.
WHY ADD CHARCUTERIE BOARDS TO YOUR BUSINESS?
Charcuterie boards let you tap into a growing market while leveraging your existing customization skills. They’re ideal for weddings, corporate gifts, or retail products. By adding laser engraving, you expand your product line and create new revenue opportunities.
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STEP 1: CHOOSE YOUR MATERIAL
Start by selecting the right material for your board. Bamboo works well because it’s durable, budget-friendly, and has a natural grain that enhances engraving designs. Once you’ve chosen your board, place it into the xTool P2 laser engraver. Be sure to align it as straight as possible to simplify the engraving process.
If you’re used to screen printing on fabric, think of this as expanding your canvas. Instead of working with cotton or polyester, you’re now adding your designs to wood.
STEP 2: DESIGN YOUR ENGRAVING
For this example, we are designing inside xTool's own software Creative Space. So, open up the software to start building your engraving design. This might include a company logo, custom text like a family name, or a meaningful quote. You can even add images, such as customer-submitted photos or themed illustrations.
When working with photos, invert the colors to ensure that the darkest areas engrave deeper, creating depth and dimension. For a clean and professional finish, use tools like the Magic Wand to remove any unwanted background details. If you’re adding text or decorative embellishments, align everything carefully within your workspace.
STEP 3: ALIGN YOUR DESIGN
With your design ready, it’s time to lay out and adjust your elements. Use Creative Space’s alignment tools to ensure everything looks polished. Double-check that your text is straight and your spacing feels balanced. Group the elements together so that nothing shifts during resizing or final adjustments. This step is all about making sure your engraving looks clean and professional.
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STEP 4: DIAL IN LASER SETTINGS
The success of your engraving depends on getting the laser settings right. Start by testing on a scrap piece of wood similar to your charcuterie board. Once you’re confident, set the power to 40%, the speed to 300 mm/s, and enable grayscale mode if your design includes detailed logos or photos. A resolution of 100 lines per centimeter will give your engraving crisp, sharp details.
Filters like "Sketch" or "Comic 2" can enhance contrast and depth, especially for images. Test a few options to find the one that best suits your design.
STEP 5: ENGRAVE YOUR BOARD
Place your board securely in the machine, check the alignment, and hit start. Depending on the size and complexity of your design, engraving usually takes 20 to 40 minutes. For extra clarity or depth, consider running a second pass. Watching the design come to life on the wood is a rewarding part of the process.
STEP 6: ADD THE FINISHING TOUCHES
Once the engraving is complete, inspect the board for any residue and clean it with a damp cloth if necessary. To give it a polished, finished look, apply a food-safe wood oil. This not only enhances the natural grain but also protects the board for long-term use. If you want to add extra functionality, consider attaching non-slip pads to the back for stability.
Packaging also plays a role in making a great impression. Wrap the board in tissue paper, include a branded tag, or add a card with care instructions. These small details help elevate the customer experience.
WHY THIS WORKS FOR SCREEN PRINTERS
Adding custom charcuterie boards to your business is a smart way to grow your brand. Laser engraving allows you to expand into new materials, from wood to leather and acrylic. It gives you the chance to serve new customers looking for premium, personalized items. These boards also command higher price points, making them a profitable addition to your offerings.
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By combining screen printing with engraving, you can position your shop as a one-stop destination for custom gifts and products. Whether it’s apparel or a high-end engraved board, customers will know they can rely on you for quality and creativity.
START TODAY
Charcuterie boards aren’t just trendy—they’re a smart way to grow your screen printing business. Grab your xTool P2 laser engraver, start experimenting with designs, and offer something your customers will love.