Engraving: Engraving creates an imprint in a product by making an incision into the product itself.   Engraving typically yields a monochromatic (one “color”) image.  However, when the product being engraved has a surface color different than the underlying material, engraving will expose the underlying color.  This approach is often used to create signs and plaques.  Mechanical and laser engraving can be used on a variety of material including metals and plastics.

Etching: Like engraving, etching removes the upper surface material from a product.   In the case of etching, chemicals are typically used to create the imprint.  Like engraving, etching typically provides a monochromatic image.  However, underlying product colors may be exposed through etching as well.   Etching is most frequently used for glass and metal products.

Fabric Laser Engraving: Uses a laser to burn the design into the top layer of fleece, polyester or microfiber products.  The laster leaves the burned area with a darker tone of the products original color creating a three dimensional tone-on-tone effect.

Dye Sublimation: Uses heat and pressure to transfer a special dye to various products including ceramics and polyesters.  In this case, full color options are available through a process similar to using CMYK Color processing except that a clear ink coating replaces black.  This clear coating typically covers the image to protect it from UV light, heat and water.  Heat Transfers are a form of dye sublimation where the ink is initially transferred to paper before being heat pressed into a product.